Performance Evaluation of Ferroboron Shielding Material after Irradiation in FBTR

Ferro boron has been identified as a candidate material for in-vessel radiation shielding application in future Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) in India that can result in 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 irradiation experiment was designed and carried out with the aim of establishing in-reactor performance of ferroboron shielding material over a target life-time of 60 years. This paper reports on post-irradiation examinations carried out on the experimental capsule. The results show that slumping of stack and helium release are not life limiting for deployment of ferroboron for in-core shielding in fast reactors. (author)