A review of fragmentation models relative to molten UO2 breakup when quenched in sodium coolant

An important aspect of the fuel-coolant interaction problem relative to liquid metal fast breeder reactor (LMFBR) safety analysis is the fragmentation of molten oxide fuel during contact with liquid sodium coolant. A proper description of the kinetics of such an event requires an understanding of the breakup process and an estimate of the size and dispersion of such finely divided fuel in coolant. In recent years, considerable interest has centered on the problem of determining the nature of such fragmentation. In this paper, both analytic and experimental studies pertaining to such breakup are reviewed in light of recent developments in the understanding of heat transfer and solidification phenomena during quenching of UO2 in sodium. A more extensive review of this subject can be found in Ref. 1. (auth.)