Internal production of helium gas and point defects generated during neutron-irradiation causes significant swelling. The swelling of boron carbide, on the other hand, leads to a mechanical interaction between B4C powder and stainless steel cladding. This effect is believed to be the main mechanical load causing the stress cracking of the blade. The goal of the project is to maximize the life span of the boron carbide, stainless steel cladding structure. Some ten personal computers are used.
All machines are computer controlled.
Advanced equipment for collection and analysis of measured data, especially from rapid events, e.g. transient recorders and FFT analysers. Optical displacement sensor.