| Abstract Scope |
In the context of nuclear power plant (NPP) operational life management, the current trend toward extending component lifetimes demands precise and reliable data on the degradation of structural materials. Standard mechanical testing methods typically require large specimen geometries and significant volumes of testing material, which are often difficult to extract without compromising the structural integrity of critical components.
To address these challenges, innovative small-specimen testing methods, such as Small Punch Testing (SPT), and fracture toughness testing using mini-CT specimens, are being increasingly adopted for the evaluation of irradiated structural materials. These semi-destructive testing methods bring several advantages, including reduced material consumption, the potential of in-situ testing, and expansion of the existing database of irradiated materials testing results.
The accredited laboratory of the Mechanical and Corrosion Testing Department, commonly referred to as the „semi-hot cells“, is dedicated to evaluating the mechanical properties of structural materials from NPPs, both irradiated and unirradiated. This work is primarily carried out within the framework of surveillance programmes for Czech, Slovak and several Ukranian NPPs. Mechanical and corrosion-mechanical testing is conducted directly in the semi-hot cells, which are fully equipped with necessary remote handling systems for standard post-irradiation testing methods including tensile, impact, fracture toughness, fatigue, and hardness tests, as well as corrosion-mechanical tests in environment such as EAF test, CGR test, SSRT.
At the moment, there is significant focus on miniature specimen testing techniques to ensure efficient utilization of structural NPP‘s materials. This presentation outlines the practical implementation of these methods, including their successful application in projects such as STRUMAT-LTO, FRACTESUS, DELISA-LTO, IAEA CRP, and ASTM standardization, as well as their evaluation at the accredited hot cell testing laboratory of ÚJV Řež, a. s., Mechanical and Corrosion Testing Department. |