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DOE OSTI2022

srlife: A Fast Tool for High Temperature Receiver Design and Analysis

This report describes a tool for estimating the structural service life of tubular, panel solar receivers operating at high temperatures. A complete version of the tool is available as open source software at https://github.com/Argonne-National-Laboratory/srlife and can be installed through the PyPi (https://pypi.org) package manager. Given the basic receiver geometry and the thermal loads on the receiver, the tool provides 1D, 2D, or 3D thermal and structural (single tube and simplified system) analysis and creep-fatigue service life prediction for six metallic alloys – 316H, 800H, Alloy 617, Alloy 740H, and Alloy 230. With the exception of Alloy 230 where the material data is preliminary, the software included a detailed set of models for the materials, well-supported by high temperature experimental test data. The tool is designed for easy integration with a software stack, including solar field and thermohydraulic simulations, for optimizing receiver designs to meet service life and economic targets. The report describes several heuristics that can be applied in srlife to reduce the analysis time by several orders of magnitude but with fairly accurate life estimation when compared with full analysis. The report provides several examples demonstrating the utility of srlife in receiver design. Finally, the report discusses high temperature tests on Alloy 282, collected as part of this project, used to develop and support the material model for that alloy.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

DOE OSTI2024

Assessment of Cementitious Composites for High-Temperature Geothermal Wells

High-temperature (HT) geothermal wells can provide green power 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Under harsh environmental and operational conditions, the long-term durability requirements of such wells require special cementitious composites for well construction. This paper reports a comprehensive assessment of geothermal cement composites in cyclic pressure function laboratory tests and field exposures in an HT geothermal well (300–350 °C), as well as a numerical model to complement the experimental results. Performances of calcium–aluminate cement (CAC)-based composites and calcium-free cement were compared against the reference ordinary Portland cement (OPC)/silica blend. The stability and degradation of the tested materials were characterized by crystalline composition, thermo-gravimetric and elemental analyses, morphological studies, water-fillable porosity, and mechanical property measurements. All CAC-based formulations outperformed the reference blend both in the function and exposure tests. The reference OPC/silica lost its mechanical properties during the 9-month well exposure through extensive HT carbonation, while the properties of the CAC-based blends improved over that period. The Modified Cam-Clay (MCC) plasticity parameters of several HT cement formulations were extracted from triaxial and Brazilian tests and verified against the experimental results of function cyclic tests. These parameters can be used in well integrity models to predict the field-scale behavior of the cement sheath under geothermal well conditions.

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY↗

DOE OSTI2023

Acceptance tests of Hamamatsu R7081 photomultiplier tubes

Photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) are traditionally an integral part of large underground experiments as they measure the light emission from particle interactions within the enclosed detection media. The BUTTON experiment will utilise around 100 PMTs to measure the response of different media suitable for rare event searches. A subset of low-radioactivity 10-inch Hamamatsu R7081 PMTs were tested, characterised, and compared to manufacture certification. This manuscript describes the laboratory tests and analysis of gain, peak-to-valley ratio and dark rate of the PMTs to give an understanding of the charge response, signal-to-noise ratio and dark noise background as an acceptance test of the suitability of these PMTs for water-based detectors. Following the evaluation of these tests, the PMT performance agreed with the manufacturer specifications. These results are imperative for modeling the PMT response in detector simulations and providing confidence in the performance of the devices once installed in the detector underground.

neutrino detectors↗

DOE OSTI2025

Ising on $\mathbb{S}^2$-- The Affine Conjecture

We review the recent construction \cite{brower2024isingmodelmathbbs2} of the 2d Ising model on a triangulated sphere $\mathbb{S}^2$. Surprisingly, this led to a precise map of the lattice couplings to the target geometry in order to reach the conform field theory (CFT) in the continuum limit. For the integrable 2d Ising CFT, the map was found analytically \cite{Brower_2023}. Here we conjecture how this might be generalized. The discrete geometry is implemented by the piecewise flat triangulation introduced by Regge in 1960 for the Einstein Hilbert action \cite{Regge1961GeneralRW}. Then following our Ising example, we posit the existence of a smooth map of lattice couplings in affine parameters consistent with quantum correlators. A sequence of theoretical investigations and numerical simulations are recommended to test this conjecture. They begin with non-integrable CFT's -- the 2d $\phi^4$ theory on $\mathbb{S}^2$; the 3d Ising model on $\mathbb{S}^3$ and $\mathbb{R} \times \mathbb{S}^2$; QED3 on $\mathbb{R} \times \mathbb{S}^{2} $ as an intermediate step to 4d non-Abelian lattice gauge theory on $\mathbb{R} \times \mathbb{S}^3$.

Brower, Richard C. [Boston U.] (ORCID:000000028185↗

DOE OSTI2025

Architecture of the personnel protection systems for Spallation Neutron Source Second Target Station

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is implementing a major upgrade to the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) facility, encompassing the addition of the Second Target Station (STS). Preliminary design reviews have been conducted on several STS Personnel Protection Systems (PPS). The reviews focused primarily on the integration with the existing SNS PPS, the new proton transport tunnel, and the target areas. Development of the PPS is ongoing, to ensure a coherent safety system with the mission of protecting users and workers from prompt radiation hazards while providing high beam availability to operations. The STS PPS element in the Integrated Control System (ICS) is a facility-wide system composed of multiple safety subsystems, including the Ring to Second Target (RTST) beam transport tunnel, Target, Bunker and Instruments. Personnel working in all these geographic areas are protected by modular reliable PPS solutions. The safety system enforces access controls, radiation monitoring, beam destination control, and application of critical device inhibit upon detection of abnormal condition. It uses well-documented processes, Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) safety, pulsed test, and redundancy to achieve the desired Safety Integrity Level (SIL). This paper gives an architectural overview of the STS PPS and a detailed safety plan for the SNS facility, addressing safety solutions and human factors.

Michaelides, Tommy [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000190499869)↗

DOE OSTI2021

Carbon and Hydrocarbon Particle Seeding in Air-Breathing Rotating Detonation Engine

Within the power generation community, the rotating detonation engine (RDE) is only growing in popularity with its increased performance, simple mechanism, and operation. Although significant testing is underway to characterize the RDE for integration with conventional gas turbines, this entire system is still at a relatively low technology readiness level. In the midst of RDE research, there is an initiative to understand solid particle seeding effects in the detonation performance. Under investigation at the University of Central Florida is a Department of Energy (DOE) 15.24 cm (6 in.) RDE, with a solid particle seeder in parallel with its H2 and air flow lines. Previous work on this system involved carbon particle detonation; however, the tested particles were taken one step further to include more sustainable, greener hydrocarbon particles. Testing of powdered sugar, peanut flour, and cornstarch, along with previous carbon black tests have shown not only successful detonability, but a noticeable effect on the detonation wave dynamics. Side-by-side with a particle burning model being developed, an operational map can be determined for the hydrocarbon particles particularly, which can be tuned with the local flow conditions to achieve peak operability while replacing fuels with sustainable alternatives that could even be grown.

Engineering↗

DOE OSTI2024

Surfactant-Specific AI-Driven Molecular Design: Integrating Generative Models, Predictive Modeling, and Reinforcement Learning for Tailored Surfactant Synthesis

Molecular design is a critical aspect of various scientific and industrial fields, where the properties of molecules hold significant importance. In this study, a 3-fold methodology design is presented that leverages the power of generative artificial intelligence (AI), predictive modeling, and reinforcement learning to create tailored molecules with desired properties. This model synergistically combines deep learning techniques with Self-Referencing Embedded Strings (SELFIES) molecular representation to build a generative model that generates valid molecules and a graphical neural network model that accurately forecasts molecular properties. The Variational Autoencoder (VAE) coupled with reinforcement learning helps refine molecule generation based on targeted attributes. Data from an experimental study involving surfactants were used to test the framework. A validation of the structural integrity of the molecules generated was conducted, and Tanimoto similarities were used to quantify the similarity and diversity between the original and generated molecular structures. Also, saliency maps for the generated surfactants were produced to identify the features explaining the property values. Lastly, molecular dynamics simulations were used to validate the stability of the generated molecules. The results showed that the proposed framework can effectively produce valid molecules within the set property threshold value.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DOE OSTI2025

Fiber-optic bolometers with high-temperature tolerance and reduced time constants for fusion plasma diagnostics

Fiber-optic bolometers (FOBs) designed for plasma radiation measurement in magnetically confined fusion environments have been previously developed and tested at the DIII-D tokamak. These FOBs utilize a silicon Fabry–Perot interferometer at the fiber tip for temperature measurement and a gold disk as a radiation absorber. This paper presents recent advancements in the development of FOBs with reduced cooling time constants and enhanced temperature tolerance. We also demonstrate high-temperature operation and report findings from irradiation tests. By incorporating a copper sensor holder as a thermal sink and integrating two closely packed sensor heads into a compact design, the cooling time constants were reduced to ∼100 ms in vacuum, while minimizing uncertainties caused by temperature gradients. The FOBs were subjected to heating at 400 °C for five hours, with no observed degradation in noise performance post-heating. High-temperature operation tests were conducted at ∼220 °C using a 404 nm square-wave modulated laser to simulate the plasma radiation. In addition, four FOBs constructed from copper-coated pure-silica fibers were fabricated and underwent irradiation testing, enduring a total γ-radiation dose of 15.2 MGy and a neutron fluence of 1.6 × 10 18 n/cm 2 . As a result, the FOBs maintained their physical integrity and the optical signal shows high visibility throughout the test.

42 ENGINEERING↗

DOE OSTI2020

Cross-correlating Planck with VST ATLAS LRGs: a new test for the ISW effect in the Southern hemisphere

ABSTRACT The integrated Sachs–Wolfe (ISW) effect probes the late-time expansion history of the Universe, offering direct constraints on dark energy. Here, we present our measurements of the ISW signal at redshifts of $\bar{z}=0.35$, 0.55, and 0.68, using the cross-correlation of the Planck cosmic microwave background temperature map with ∼0.5 million luminous red galaxies (LRGs) selected from the VST ATLAS survey. We then combine these with previous measurements based on WMAP and similar SDSS LRG samples, providing a total sample of ∼2.1 million LRGs covering ∼12 000 deg2 of sky. At $\bar{z}=0.35$ and $\bar{z}=0.55$, we detect the ISW signal at 1.2σ and 2.3σ (or 2.6σ combined), in agreement with the predictions of lambda cold dark matter (ΛCDM). We verify these results by repeating the measurements using the BOSS LOWZ and CMASS, spectroscopically confirmed LRG samples. We also detect the ISW effect in three magnitude limited ATLAS + SDSS galaxy samples extending to z ≈ 0.4 at ∼2σ per sample. However, we do not detect the ISW signal at $\bar{z}=0.68$ when combining the ATLAS and SDSS results. Further tests using spectroscopically confirmed eBOSS LRGs at this redshift remain inconclusive due to the current low sky coverage of the survey. If the ISW signal is shown to be redshift dependent in a manner inconsistent with the predictions of ΛCDM, it could open the door to alternative theories such as modified gravity. It is therefore important to repeat the high-redshift ISW measurement using the completed eBOSS sample, as well as deeper upcoming surveys such as DESI and LSST.

Ansarinejad, Behzad↗

DOE OSTI2024

Site Characterization of the Highest-Priority Geologic Formations for CO2 Storage in Wyoming

The project Site Characterization of the Highest-Priority Geologic Formations for CO2 Storage in Wyoming is one of 9 site characterization projects that were implemented as part of ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act). Data from this project was used to improve resolution of data in NATCARB in the area of study. Data related to this study has already been incorporated in NATCARB Atlas. The Wyoming Carbon Underground Storage Project (WY-CUSP) consisted of CO2 storage site characterization and evaluation, focusing on Wyoming’s most promising CO2 storage reservoirs (the Pennsylvanian Weber/Tensleep Sandstone and Mississippian Madison Limestone) and premier CO2 storage site (Rock Springs Uplift). Results from the WY-CUSP project suggest the two reservoirs could store up to 17,000 million tons of CO2. The WY-CUSP team drilled a stratigraphic test well and acquired a 3-D seismic survey covering 25 square miles of the Rock Springs Uplift site. The team retrieved 916 feet of core from the 12,810-foot-deep well, along with a complete log suite, borehole images, fluid samples, and other data. Project partners (1) provided continuous visual documentation of the core, including grain size, mineralogy, facies distribution, and porosity; (2) performed continuous permeability and velocity scans of selected reservoir intervals; and (3) chemically analyzed the fluid samples. WY-CUSP scientists integrated seismic attributes with observations from log suites, a VSP survey, core, fluid samples, and laboratory analyses, including continuous permeability scans. From these integrations, researchers constructed 3-D spatial distribution volumes of reservoir and seal properties that represent geological heterogeneity at the targeted CO2 storage site. The WY-CUSP team used this data to perform new CO2 plume migration simulations. Baker Hughes, Inc., completed a series of small-scale, in-situ water injectivity measurements. A database was formed when observations, analyses, and experiments from the stratigraphic test well were integrated. Correlation of these data allowed petrophysical parameters to be extrapolated from the test well out into the storage domain (5x5 mile 3-D seismic survey volume). This resulted in an improved, realistic understanding of performance assessments for potential CO2 storage scenarios. The WY-CUSP team worked on (1) improving CO2 storage resource estimates, (2) establishing long-term integrity and permanence of confining layers, (3) designing a profitable strategy for pressure management, and (4) evaluating the utilization of stored CO2 at the Rock Spring Uplift. Finally, Baker Hughes developed a microseismic baseline for the test site using in-bore geophones to complete field operations.

3-D seismic↗

DOE OSTI2020

Development of an In-Situ Method for Cable Condition Monitoring in Nuclear Power Plants (SBIR Phase IIB Final Report)

This is the final report of a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project that Analysis and Measurement Services Corporation (AMS) has conducted for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) over a seven-and-a-half year period (February 2013 through April 2020 with the awards of Phase I, Phase II and Phase IIB projects). The goal of the project was to design, develop, validate, and demonstrate a technique for in-situ testing of cable insulation polymers that will identify, locate, and provide the degree of aging for cables commonly used in nuclear power plants. During the Phase I project, AMS established that the frequency domain reflectometry (FDR) technique can successfully identify and measure cable insulation degradation that can be trended with aging. In Phase II, AMS performed extensive cable aging studies to correlate FDR measurements with other laboratory condition monitoring techniques and developed aging condition categories to quantify the severity of insulation degradation. In Phase IIB, the project expanded the research to include a wider variety of cable polymers that are used in the commercial nuclear power industry. This work also involved developing acceptance criteria to objectively assess age-related cable degradation while sharing the results of this research with industry, academia, and national laboratories to advance the state of the art in cable aging management technologies. The products developed under this research project provide the nuclear industry with an effective condition monitoring tool to support safe and long-term plant operation. Throughout the project, collaborations and support were received from a variety of industry organizations and individuals including DOE National Laboratories as well as nuclear plant utilities and several other industry experts and cable manufacturers. Contributions from these organizations included the donation of new cables, naturally aged cables, and research collaboration. The validation and commercialization of the products of this project were achieved through opportunities to test and demonstrate the technologies’ capabilities on-site at nuclear power generation and research facilities as well as in the laboratory alongside industry peers and cable testing service companies. The research resulted in a technology that can be used to identify, locate, and quantify age-related degradation in several types of cable polymers. This included developing software and hardware as well as the methodology for using the FDR technique to assess age-related degradation of installed cables. The technology developed under this project can provide nuclear plant management, engineers, and technicians with an in-situ electrical test method to determine if in-service cables need to be replaced, monitored on a periodic basis, or show no evidence of significant age-related degradation that may require action. Near the end of this Phase IIB project, the FDR product was sold to a nuclear power utility in South Korea. This sale of a dedicated aging assessment tool is the beginning of a comprehensive contract with the expectation of twelve (12) units sold to that country. Additionally, the FDR technology has been sold to several industry organizations including a nuclear research institute and the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant. This technology is also being leased by other nuclear industry service companies for incorporation into aging management programs. The cable testing technology that was developed under this project was also integrated into a comprehensive cable aging assessment service that is being offered to the nuclear industry at the request of U.S. nuclear utilities and is currently part of onsite testing services provided by AMS.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗

DOE OSTI2020

Providing Ramping Service with Wind to Enhance Power System Operational Flexibility

This project develops an innovative, integrated, and transformative approach to mitigate the impact of wind ramping by providing flexible ramping products from wind power. The project will significantly contribute to the reduction of wind integration costs by making wind power dispatchable and allowing the efficient management of wind ramping characteristics. In addition, we collaborated with industry to test and validate the methodology, considering economic and reliability goals, by integrating the proposed methodology into the simulated market frameworks of two independent system operators: California Independent System Operator and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas.

17 WIND ENERGY↗

DOE OSTI2025

Helium recovery system at IB3a

The increasing need for optimal and sustainable use of cryogenic resources to support Fermilab’s scientific mission has highlighted the necessity of improving the Laboratory’s helium management practices. An assessment of cryogenic test facilities identified the Technical Division’s Industrial Building 3a (IB3A) as a key site requiring upgrades to integrate a helium recovery system. The IB3A facility is essential for characterizing and testing superconductors, cables, and coils for various R&D projects, including the US High-Luminosity LHC Accelerator Upgrade Project (AUP), Mu2e, and other external collaborations. Currently, the facility relies on 500 L helium Dewars and vents the vaporized helium directly into the atmosphere, leading to significant helium loss. Given the non-renewable nature of helium, recovering and reusing this resource is critical for the sustainability of Fermilab’s operations. To address this challenge, a project has been initiated to connect IB3A to an existing helium purification station and refrigeration system located in another building via a dedicated pipeline pass over the roof of several buildings. This solution will enable the efficient capture of vented helium, its transfer to the purification station, and subsequent liquefaction for reuse in future operations. The project includes a detailed design phase, specifying the pipeline route, flow control mechanisms, and integration with the existing cryogenic infrastructure, followed by phased implementation and commissioning. By implementing this pipeline connection and upgrading IB3A, Fermilab aims to significantly reduce helium waste, lower operational costs, and align with its commitment to sustainability. This initiative provides a model for resource-efficient cryogenic operations and reinforces the Laboratory’s capacity to support its science mission for the long term.

Porwisiak, D. [Fermilab]↗

DOE OSTI2021

Heuristic Dispatch Based on Price Signals for Behind-the-Meter PV-Battery Systems in the System Advisor Model

The economic potential of a behind-the-meter (BTM) PV-battery system depends greatly on how the battery is dispatched. Different utility rates, system sizes, generation and load profiles can all require different dispatch strategies. This paper presents price signals dispatch, a new algorithm for automated economic dispatch of BTM PV-battery systems, which utilizes 24-hour PV and load forecasts, degradation data, and utility rates. The algorithm is integrated with the System Advisor Model (SAM) tool and is tested with a nonlinear generic electrochemical battery model. Price signals dispatch outperforms SAM's existing algorithms in cases requiring a balance between demand charge management and energy arbitrage, and in cases where battery degradation imposes a significant cost.

batteries↗

DOE OSTI2023

Preliminary Feasibility of Printing, Microstructure Analysis and Mechanical Performance of a Down Selected Ni Alloy

This report is submitted as completion of a Milestone 3 deliverable under work package ORNL CT-23OR1304051 in support of the Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies (AMMT) program. The AMMT program is aiming at the faster incorporation of new materials and manufacturing technologies into complex nuclear-related systems. An integrated approach, combining advanced characterization, high-throughput and accelerated testing, modeling and simulation including machine learning and artificial intelligence will be employed. While 316H (Fe-16-18Cr-10-14Ni-2-3Mo-0.04-0.1C) has been identified as a key alloy to be integrated into the AMMT accelerated alloy qualification approach due its relevance for many current and future nuclear energy reactors, many other alloys could be considered for the advanced fabrication of innovate high-performance nuclear components. ANL, INL, ORNL and PNNL are collaborating on identifying the most promising alloy candidates relevant for the AMMT program. A selection criteria matrix was established to evaluate the alloys considering their relative importance and technological readiness levels for nuclear energy applications, with a focus on laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). Due to the broad range of potential candidate alloys, ORNL and INL focused on Ni-based alloys, while ANL and PNNL mainly evaluated Fe-based alloys. PNNL previously published materials scorecards reports on several key alloys and this report is providing a broader overview of Ni-based candidate alloys, expending beyond alloys well-known to the nuclear community. Of particular interest are alloys that are currently commercially available in powder form due to the growing demand from other industries that have invested heavily in additive manufacturing. Among these alloys, Haynes 282 (Fe-20Cr-20Co-8Mo) was selected due to its superior strength at high temperature compared to the code-qualified alloy 617 (Ni-20-24Cr-10-15Co-8-10Mo). To assess the integration of this new alloy into the AMMT digital manufacturing framework, we performed the rapid optimization of alloy 282 printing parameters on a Renishaw 250 machine, the fabrication of sufficient materials for extensive characterization and mechanical testing both at ORNL and INL, and added the printing data into the digital platform via the Peregrine software. A detailed analysis of the LPBF 718 alloy was also conducted, with creep specimens being tested at 600-650°C and characterized by advanced electron microscopy. The alloy superior mechanical strength and great printability associated with the extensive database that has already been generated highlight the promising potential of LPBF 718 as a candidate alloy for the AMMT program. INL, ANL and PNNL have generated similar reports and all the information will be compiled into a final M2 milestone report to provide the AMMT leadership team with clear recommendations on the down selection of reactor materials, as well as establish a roadmap for the qualification of these selected alloys.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DOE OSTI2023

Grid Resilient, Self-Powered, Fuel Flexible, High Efficiency Heating System (Final Report)

The Grid Independent High Efficiency System (GIHES) delivers a heating system that operates free from the power grid and provides ultra-low emissions and high efficiency heating for residential and commercial buildings. The project demonstrated two weeks of continuous grid independent operation of a storage water heater equipped with a powered damper. The Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) integrated GIHES technology revolutionizes heating systems to provide grid resilient hot water production, while delivering significant value to the end user by eliminating impacts of power interruption and enhancing comfort, convenience and productivity. The system maximizes the thermal-to-electric conversion efficiency by optimizing location and orientation of the TEGs and durability while lowering system costs. The TEGs generate enough power to charge a battery and run the storage water heater unit with a powered damper uninterrupted by providing the required parasitic electrical power for start-up, shutdown and during idling. Several TEGs were analytically and experimentally evaluated based on the size, surface area and the power being generated before designing and fabricating a complete multi-TEG assembly for integration with the water heater. The GIHES technology can be extended to boilers, furnaces and tankless water heaters and integrated with heat pump to further increase the overall equipment efficiency. The technology has the potential to reduce the amount of dispatch power and peak power plant operation. An advanced burner was designed, developed and 3D printed for fuel flexible operation. The burner was designed to enable tighter integration with TEGs for potentially higher TEG output, should this be necessary. A bench-scale test rig to perform testing of a 200,000 Btu/h burner and capable of handling up to 10% H2 (by volume) was setup at GTI’s laboratory with appropriate safety and controls to ensure smooth and safe operation. Testing of the 3D burner showed < 5 ppm NOx emissions can be achieved for the entire firing range and with different levels of hydrogen blends with natural gas. The burner will enable a more integrated TEG-burner module design for improved system performance, should this be required in the future. Techno-economic analysis (TEA) of the TEG integrated with the water heaters was performed. The testing data and the power output were used to develop the TEA. The analysis for the storage unit with damper showed that the TEG integrated system costs $95. This is much lower than a one-time charge needed to wire and install dedicated power. Discussions with TEG manufacturers and OEM’s will provide more detailed information and methods to further lower these costs.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗

DOE OSTI2024

Report on RIA Relevant Modified Burst Testing of ATF Cladding Materials

The mechanical performance of accident-tolerant fuel (ATF) cladding candidates in light-water reactors (LWRs) must be similar to or better than that of current conventional nuclear fuel claddings to reduce dose to the public and ensure a that the core coolable geometry is maintained during a postulated reactivity-initiated accident (RIA) in light-water reactors (LWRs). During an RIA event, the rapid thermal expansion of nuclear fuel can deform the cladding once the fuel–cladding gap closes. In some cases, the pellet–cladding mechanical interaction (PCMI) can induce mechanical failure in ATF candidates. Thus, the mechanical response of ATF cladding must be investigated by mimicking the conditions of RIA and potentially performing Transient Reactor Test (TREAT) experiments to establish or verify the safety envelope. The work presented in this report investigated the failure behavior of as-received, hydrided, and chromium-coated (Cr-coated) Zircaloy-4 (Zry-4) cladding tube under strain-driven mechanical conditions, mimicking postulated RIA loading conditions. Mechanical testing was performed at 300°C via modified burst test (MBT) equipment with pulse width control previously developed under the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Advanced Fuel Campaign (AFC). The mechanical strains were determined using 2D digital image correlation (DIC) techniques. The base Zry-4 acquired by Cameco Inc. was in stress-relieved annealed (SRA) condition. Because of the observed large deformation of the cladding tubes, the failure strain definition was updated for the MBT, which can also be applied to other tube tests where significant bulging (out-of-plane deformation) is present. The failure strain was determined to be affected by the speed of the test or the RIA event. As the RIA-like event duration decreased from 75 to 15 ms, the failure strain decreased 5, 7 and 1% for as-received, hydrided, and Cr-coated specimens, respectively. Fractography on the Cr-coated specimens indicated the presence of two failure mechanisms: (i) crenulation at the outer surface of the coating due to the tensile tractional forces along with coatings grain microstructure and (ii) formation of critical defect at the coating/cladding interface that initiated coating rupture after severe plastic deformation of the Zry- 4 substrate. Based on the MBT results and fractography observations, performing mechanical property testing at high strain rates—in particular on Cr-coated tubes—and semi-integral TREAT experiments are required future efforts to ensure ATF cladding performance during transients. The testing recommended would also inform the development of long-term generalized cladding technologies.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

DOE OSTI2021

SECARB Regional Project Assessment

The SECARB Cranfield Early Test Project was designed to safely demonstrate large-scale, long-term CO 2 injection and storage in a CO 2 -enhanced oil recovery (EOR) operation and associated saline reservoir. Storage during EOR operations has the potential to offset commercial costs, holding a significant promise for future large-scale deployment in the southeastern United States. Denbury Onshore LLC began CO 2 -EOR operations in July 2008 at the Cranfield oilfield located east of Natchez, Mississippi (Figure 1). The location offered an ideal setting to investigate storage monitoring at a commercial CO 2 -EOR operation. The field team, led by the Gulf Coast Carbon Center of the Bureau of Economic Geology at the University of Texas at Austin, deployed the largest suite of monitoring, verification, accounting (MVA) technologies to collect data to assess long-term CO 2 utilization and storage. The CO 2 injection interval is within the 3,000-meter-deep fluvial lower Tuscaloosa Formation, a large and regionally extensive saline reservoir, at a broad four-way structural closure that defines the Cranfield oilfield. Tests were conducted in the oil-producing area as well as in the non-oil-producing brine aquifer. The CO 2 used during EOR operation was transported via pipeline from the Jackson Dome, a natural source of CO 2 . The study focused on four integrated research areas: (1) the High-Volume Injection Test area (HiVIT); (2) the Detailed Area of Study (DAS); (3) the Geomechanical area; and (4) the near-surface observatory, also called the “P-site.” CO 2 injection occurred at the HiVIT and the DAS (Figure 2 and Figure 3). The DAS was located down-dip of the oil-water interface of the Cranfield oilfield. The well layout included one injection well and two down-dip observation wells. The team was the first of the regional partnerships to monitor more than 1 million metric tons of CO 2 . At the end of the project, the team monitored more than 11 million metric tons of CO 2 injected and 5 million metric tons of CO 2 stored. The Cranfield Project was the fifth project worldwide, and the first such project in the United States, to reach this CO 2 injection volume while being monitored to demonstrate storage effectiveness.

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT↗