# Finite element analysis

## High temperature measurements and condensed matter analysis of the thermo-physical properties of ThO$_2$

Values are presented for thermal conductivity, specific heat, spectral and total hemispherical emissivity of ThO$_2$ (a potential nuclear fuel material) in a temperature range representative of a nuclear accident - 2000 K to 3050 K. For the first …

## A new method for the characterization of temperature dependent thermo-physical properties

The proposed method is based on the laser flash technique. Radially distributed thermograms are calculated via a finite element model and used in an inverse method by optimizing either specific heat or thermal conductivity of a material. These …

## Peridynamic simulations of the tetragonal to monoclinic phase transformation in zirconium dioxide

Whether present as a manufactured stabilised ceramic, or as an oxide layer on zirconium alloys, mechanical degradation in zirconia is influenced by the tetragonal to monoclinic phase transformation. Peridynamic theory was implemented within the …

## Modelling explicit fracture of nuclear fuel pellets using peridynamics

Three dimensional models of explicit cracking of nuclear fuel pellets for a variety of power ratings have been explored with peridynamics, a non-local, mesh free, fracture mechanics method. These models were implemented in the explicitly integrated …

## Modelling pellet-clad mechanical interaction during extended reduced power operation in bonded nuclear fuel

A 2D-rӨ model of pellet-clad mechanical interaction in advanced gas-cooled reactor fuel is presented. An incipient 5 μm crack is introduced into the inner surface of cladding bonded to a detachable sliver of fuel. Micro-cracking in the sliver is …

## Finite element modelling of pellet-clad interaction during operational transients

A finite element model of pellet-clad interaction in advanced gas cooled reactor fuel experiencing extended reduced power operations is presented. The model considers a 1/8th segment of fuel and overlaying cladding bonded to it. A radial crack is …