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INL reports findings on unusual quantum behavior of plutonium
Scientists at Idaho National Laboratory have discovered that plutonium hexaboride (PuB6) displays a type of unusual quantum property called a topological Kondo insulating state. Materials with this property are neither typical electricity conductors nor regular insulators. Rather, they have exterior surfaces that strongly conduct electricity and interiors that block electricity.
David J. Diamond, Dragan Mirkovic, Chia-Jung Hsu, Robert Fitzpatrick
Nuclear Technology | Volume 93 | Number 2 | February 1991 | Pages 158-165
Technical Paper | Nuclear Reactor Safet | doi.org/10.13182/NT91-A34502
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Beyond-design-basis overpressurization events in a boiling water reactor are studied to determine if they can lead to catastrophic fuel damage, i.e., fuel fragmentation and the rapid disruption of coolable geometry. This is part of a broader study for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to question the adequacy of the events previously selected as the design basis, and to determine if any sequences need more analysis in the context of severe accident research. The RELAP5/MOD2 calculations with failures of the reactor trip and recirculation pump trip, as well as safety and relief valve failures, show that no catastrophic fuel damage is expected. This, in combination with the low frequency of occurrence that can be inferred from the literature, results in a recommendation that no further consideration be given to these events at this time.