One-Dimensional Transient Model for Analyzing Large-Scale Steam Explosion Experiments

摘要

In the unlikely event of a core meltdown accident, an important safety issue is the potential for steam explosions and their effects on the accident progression. Steam explosion phenomena can be divided into three stages: (a) mixing of the molten fuel and water; (b) triggering and spatial propagation of rapid fuel fragmentation through the fuel-coolant mixture; and (c) expansion of the steam against the surroundings. The consequences of such an expansion may be missile generation or static pressurization of the vessel or containment and fuel debris dispersal. This paper describes a recently developed one-dimensional, transient computer model which attempts to describe the triggering, propagation, and expansion of large-scale steam explosions. (ERA citation 05:038198)