Analytical and numerical study for selecting polymeric matrix composites intended to nuclear applications

Abstract

This study describes a methodological proposal to select composite materials which are suitable to be employed to manufacture pipes that can properly withstand environments subjected to gamma and neutronic radiation. The methodology is used to select, among many others, the optimal composite material whose properties are used afterwards to simulate several pipe sections by finite element analysis, comparing the results with a well-known nuclear-grade steel, WWER 15Kh2MFAA. The most suitable composite material according to the defined criteria is composed of a phenolic resin matrix reinforced with long boron fibres and exhibit great properties to be used in a nuclear reactor environment: good radiation resistance and mechanical properties with a very low density at low cost. It can be concluded that, in some cases, composite material pipes can be a better option than steel ones. Extending the method to be employed in other industries or with other components could be seen as future works.