Investigation of irradiation induced phase formation at ferroboron and SS 304L clad material interface

Ferroboron has been identified as a candidate material for in-vessel radiation shielding application in future Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) in India considering significant cost savings. Out-of-pile physical and chemical characterization studies have established its neutron shielding property and long-term compatibility with 304L SS clad under sodium at the operating temperatures. An accelerated irradiation experiment has been carried out with the aim of establishing in-reactor performance of ferroboron shielding material for a target life-time of 60 years in a commercial FBR. Slumping of the Ferroboron within the sub-capsule, generation of Helium gas and ferroboron- clad chemical interaction have been evaluated as a part of Post Irradiation Examinations