New Technique for Measuring Metal Surface Properties at the Rayleigh Critical Angle

摘要

Cracks in reactor materials are enlarged through stress and thermal cycling. The early detection of micro-cracks, residual stress or other surface anomalies can lead to improved reactor surveillance. The development of an early detection tool is described through the frequency response of a plane water-metal interface ensonified at the Rayleigh critical angle. The character of the residual response demonstrates the frequency of zero reflection for a variety of water-metal interfaces. This technique can be used as a sensitive indicator of surface anomalies found on reactor piping or fuel elements. Furthermore, the technique lends itself to a rapid method for material identification. (ERA citation 09:004702)