Work

Evaluating radiation-induced corrosion depths in copper canisters of varying thicknesses for KAERI reference disposal system

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study presents a model for evaluating radiation-induced corrosion in copper canisters designed for deep geological repositories. The model is validated using reported concentrations of radiolysis products and measured corrosion depths of Cu specimens. Results show that pH and bentonite porosity strongly influence corrosion depth, whereas trapped oxygen within the bentonite has a minor effect. Corrosion depths range from 10.26 ± 0.89% to 0.12 ± 0.01% for Cu wall thicknesses between 3 and 50 mm. These findings suggest that optimizing copper could maintain canister integrity while improving repository design efficiency.

Source: npj Materials Degradation

DOI: 10.1038/s41529-025-00715-2

Authors: Nakkyu Chae, Seungjin Seo, Jinseop Kim

Institution: Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute

Language: English

Topic: Nuclear and radioactivity studies

Subfield: Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,590

Funder: Institute for Korea Spent Nuclear Fuel