Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide Description
Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide offers unmatched strength and durability for applications in the nuclear industry. With its exceptional hardness and resistance to both wear and corrosion, boron carbide is a critical component in nuclear power plants and research facilities. Its unique properties make it the ideal choice for neutron shielding, control rod coatings, and fuel element production.
Features:
-High Hardness
-Abrasion / Wear-Resistance
-Fracture Toughness
-Chemical Inertness
-High Neutron Absorbing Cross Section
Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide Specifications
|
Properties
|
Units
|
Value
|
|
Physical
|
|
Chemical Formula
|
-
|
B4C
|
|
Density, r
|
g/cm3
|
2.51
|
|
Color
|
-
|
black or dark gray
|
|
Crystal Structure
|
-
|
hexagonal
|
|
Water Absorption
|
% @R.T.
|
ng
|
|
Hardness
|
Vickers @ R.T. (GPa)
|
36
|
|
Hardness
|
knoop (kg/mm2)
|
ng
|
|
Mechanical
|
|
Compressive Strength
|
GPa @ R.T.
|
2.9
|
|
Tensile Strength
|
MPa@980þC
|
155
|
|
Modulus of Elasticity
|
GPa@ R.T
|
445
|
|
(Young's Mod.)
|
|
Flexural Strength (MOR)
|
MPa @ R.T.
|
375
|
|
Poisson's Ratio, u
|
@R.T.
|
0.19
|
|
Fracture Toughness, KIc
|
MPa x m1/2
|
ng
|
|
Thermal
|
|
Max. Use Temperature
|
ºC
|
2450
|
|
(* denotes inert atm.)
|
|
Thermal Shock Resistance
|
DT (ºC)
|
ng
|
|
Thermal Conductivity
|
W/m-K @ R.T.
|
28
|
|
Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion, al
|
10-6 K-1 (~25ºC through ±1000ºC)
|
5.54
|
|
Specific Heat, cp
|
J kg-1 K-1 @ R.T.
|
945
|
|
Electrical
|
|
Dielectric Constant
|
1MHz @ R.T.
|
ng
|
|
Dielectric Strength
|
kV/mm
|
ng
|
|
Electrical Resistivity
|
Wcm @ R.T.
|
ng
|
Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide Applications
Neutron Absorbers: Boron carbide is used as a neutron absorber in nuclear reactors to control the rate of fission. Its high neutron capture cross-section makes it effective in absorbing neutrons and thereby regulating the nuclear chain reaction.
2. Control Rods: B4C is a primary material in the manufacture of control rods for both pressurized water reactors (PWRs) and boiling water reactors (BWRs). Control rods can be inserted or withdrawn from the reactor core to manage the fission rate and maintain safe reactor operation.
3. Safety Systems: In emergency shutdown systems (scram systems), boron carbide is used due to its reliability and efficiency in absorbing excess neutrons quickly, helping to shut down the reactor rapidly in the event of an emergency.
4. Radiation Shielding: Boron carbide is incorporated into shielding materials to protect workers and sensitive equipment from neutron radiation. Its effectiveness in neutron absorption makes it an ideal component in radiation shielding panels and barriers.
5. Spent Fuel Storage: B4C is used in spent fuel storage systems to ensure safe storage of spent nuclear fuel. Its neutron-absorbing properties help to prevent accidental criticality in storage casks and pools.
6. Neutron Detectors: B4C is used in the fabrication of neutron detectors and counters, which are essential for monitoring neutron flux and ensuring the safe operation of nuclear reactors.
7. Burnable Poisons: In some reactor designs, B4C is used as a burnable poison, meaning it is designed to absorb neutrons and burn up over time. This helps to manage reactivity changes over the fuel cycle and maintain a stable reactor operation.
8. Nuclear Waste Management: Boron carbide is used in the immobilization of nuclear waste. Incorporating B4C into waste forms helps to reduce the risk of neutron-induced reactions during the storage and disposal of radioactive materials.
9. Advanced Reactor Designs: In new and advanced nuclear reactor designs, B4C is considered for use in various components due to its superior neutron absorption and stability under high radiation environments.
10. Research Reactors: B4C is used in research reactors and neutron sources for scientific experiments, materials testing, and medical isotope production. Its neutron absorption properties are critical for controlling reactor operations and ensuring experimental accuracy.
Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide Packaging
Our Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide is carefully handled during storage and transportation to preserve the quality of our product in its original condition.
Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide FAQs
- Is Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide safe for use in nuclear applications?
Yes, Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide is considered safe for use in nuclear applications when handled and stored properly. It undergoes rigorous quality control and testing to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations for nuclear materials.
- Can Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide be customized for specific applications?
Yes, Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide can be customized to meet the requirements of specific nuclear applications. SAM can adjust the boron content, particle size, and other properties to optimize performance and compatibility with different reactor designs and operating conditions.
- What is Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide used for?
Nuclear Grade Boron Carbide is used in various nuclear applications, including neutron shielding, control rods, and nuclear fuel pellets. Its ability to absorb neutrons makes it valuable for enhancing safety and efficiency in nuclear reactors and other nuclear facilities.
