Development of a Novel Molten Salt Corrosion Coupon Sampling Measurement Apparatus
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Ruhl, Trevor Michael
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Abstract
This thesis aims to present a novel design for a corrosion coupon sampling apparatus for use in the extreme environment of a molten salt reactor (MSRs), thus providing corrosion qualification capabilities for the new Molten Salt Research Reactor (MSRR) located in Abilene Christian University (ACU). The purpose of this device is to accurately measure the reactor's corrosion rate while remaining within an inert atmosphere. Once removed from the reactor's cover gas (helium), the coupon samples react with nearby oxygen. Prior works were adopted as inspiration from Oak Ridge National Labs (ORNL) in the 1960s with their Molten-Salt Reactor Experiment (MSRE). They were examined for the potential for utilization in modern reactors. This work prioritizes reactor operation, safety, and coupon data viability, aiding further progress of this technology to a higher implementation standard. Five designs are iterated upon from these historical works, concluding with a final prototype for study in simulation within SolidWorks fluid simulations for coupon performance and possible system impacts. Later, to further the viability of the design, principal static mechanisms were explored to identify possible safety sealing mechanisms through compound thermal expansion driven by a more expansive internal core material. With this final design, three sample integrations were prototyped and experimented on for possible failure modes through high-temperature testing with inductive heating and physical testing. While failure modes were identified, the thermal expansive sealing function proved not viable for this specific application. The cumulative result of the work provides extensive insight into the current design and produces a clear plan for the implantation of this technology into an MSR.
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2024-04-29
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