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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
Peter Hofmann, Mario Enrique Markiewicz, José Luis Spino
Nuclear Technology | Volume 90 | Number 2 | May 1990 | Pages 226-244
Technical Paper | Matetial | doi.org/10.13182/NT90-A34417
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The chemical reaction behavior of B4C absorber material with stainless steel 1.4919 (Type 316) and Zircaloy-4 is studied in the 800 to 1600 C temperature range. The reaction kinetics for both systems can be described by parabolic rate laws. Above 1000°C, the reaction zone growth rates in the B4C/stainless steel system are about two orders of magnitude higher than those in the B4C/Zircaloy-4 system. The compatibility specimens are quickly and completely liquefied at temperatures ≥1250°C for the B4C/stainless steel reaction couples and temperatures ≥1650°C for the B4C/Zircaloy-4 reaction couples. In both reaction systems, liquefaction occurs below the melting points of the components.
