Database of thermophysical properties of liquid metal coolants for GEN-IV

Liquid metals, such as sodium (Na), lead (Pb) and lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE), are considered as potential coolants for the fast spectrum nuclear reactors of the next generation GEN-IV). This report gives a brief review of the compilations and recommendations developed for the main thermophysical properties of liquid Na, Pb, Pb-Bi(e) and also bismuth Bi (as a component of LBE). The properties of theses coolants were measured in many laboratories, but mainly at the normal atmospheric pressure and at relatively low temperatures (except for Na). In general, the reliability of data is satisfactory, however, a large uncertainty still exists in some properties of Pb, Bi and Pb-Bi(e). Based on the performed review and analysis of the available data, a set of correlations for estimation of the main thermophysical properties of liquid Na, Pb, Bi and Pb-Bi(e) in a large temperature range is proposed. For prognosis of the properties at higher temperatures and pressures, a relevant equation of state (EOS) based on the proven physical models and experimental data is suggested. However, the critical parameters of the considered substances are not well determined yet, and this hinders the EOS validation at high temperatures and pressures.