Response of a 1/20 scale mock-up of the Super Phenix breeder reactor to an HCDA loading simulation

The mechanical consequences of the reference HCDA of the CREYS-MALVILLE plant are essentially investigated on one hand with global calculations, using 2D hydrodynamic codes and with specific calculations and on the other hand with a purely experimental method; these two approaches are complementary. The construction of a scaled model, loaded with a suitable explosive charge, was decided to provide general information on the behaviour of the main reactor structures during the accident (MARS experiment). Three special objectives conditioning the radioactivity released at short-time (containment integrity) and at medium-time (emergency heat exchangers and core catcher integrities) are obviously of prime interest. This paper summarizes the approach used in the MARS programme and the main features of the results obtained. (orig.)