Hydrogen absorption behavior of Zr-2.5Nb pressure tubes in Wolsung Unit 1

The deuterium uptake behavior of Zr-2.5Nb pressure tubes in Wolsung Unit 1 was analyzed in terms of longitudinal location, operation time, and coolant temperature. The results were compared with those obtained from Canadian CANDU reactors. The amount of deuterium uptake was higher at the outlet part than at the inlet part and was also higher when subjected to a longer operation time and a higher coolant temperature. The hydrogen uptake of Zr-2.5Nb in a hydrogen gas atmosphere was dependent on the microstructure of the alloy. The aged Zr-2.5Nb consisting of α-Zr and β-Zr phases. The hydrogen in the alloy decreased the rate of oxidation. This could be explained in terms of the cathodic controlled reaction of Zr-2.5Nb oxidation. (author)