1. Scope

1.1 This specification defines criteria for boron-based neutron absorbing material systems used in racks in a pool environment for storage of nuclear light water reactor (LWR) spent-fuel assemblies or disassembled components to maintain sub-criticality in the storage rack system.

1.2 Boron-based neutron absorbing material systems normally consist of metallic boron or a chemical compound containing boron (for example, boron carbide, B 4 C) supported by a matrix of aluminum, steel, or other materials.

1.3 In a boron-based absorber, neutron absorption occurs primarily by the boron-10 isotope that is present in natural boron to the extent of 18.3 0.2% by weight (depending upon the geological origin of the boron). Boron, enriched in boron-10 could also be used.

1.4 The materials systems described herein shall be functional - that is always be capable to maintain a B10 areal density such that subcriticality Keff 0.95 or Keff 0.98 or Keff 1.0 depending on the design specification for the service life (approximately 40 years) in the operating environment of a nuclear spent fuel pool.

1.5 A number of acceptable boron-based absorbing materials combinations are currently available while others are being developed for use in the future. This specification defines criteria essential and applicable to all materials combinations and identifies parameters a buyer should specify to satisfy a unique or particular requirement.

1.6 The scope of this specification does not comprehensively cover all provisions for preventing criticality accidents or requirements for health and safety. Observance of this specification does not relieve the user of the obligation to conform to all applicable international, national, and local regulations.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

A240/A240M Specification for Chromium and Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip for Pressure Vessels and for General Applications

B209 Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate

C750 Specification for Nuclear-Grade Boron Carbide Powder

C859 Terminology Relating to Nuclear Materials

C1187 Guide for Establishing Surveillance Test Program for Boron-Based Neutron Absorbing Material Systems for Use in Nuclear Spent Fuel Storage Racks

E105 Practice for Probability Sampling of Materials

U. S. Government Documents

ANSI Standards

Keywords

boron; spent fuel; storage rack; Absorption; Boron-containing minerals; Irradiance/irradiation--nuclear applications; Neutron absorbing materials; Nuclear fuels (reactor)--specifications; Nuclear materials/applications--specifications; Nuclear reactor vessels; Nuclear reactor vessels--light-water cooled; Nuclear scrap and waste materials; Spent nuclear fuels (SNF);

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 27.120.01 (Nuclear energy in general)

DOI: 10.1520/C0992-06

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