Core melt experiment series in LOFT

LOFT is being considered for future experiments involving core decomposition and migration because of the renewed NRC interest in Class 9 accidents following the TMI-2 event and because LOFT has unique capabilities for conducting this type experiment. A set of fuel damage experiments designated L8, L12 and L17 have evolved from the preliminary planning as follows: L8 allows center fuel bundle damage to occur within the removal capabilities of the existing fuel removal equipment; L12 allows entire core damage and decomposition to occur within the core boundaries; and L17 allows the decomposed core to migrate and erode the core support structures, reactor vessel, containment structure and containment substratum