Abstract
Liquid metals, such as sodium (Na), lead (Pb) and lead–bismuth (Pb–Bi) eutectic (e), are considered as potential coolants for fast spectrum nuclear reactors (FR) of the next generation. Intensive studies have been performed in different countries aiming at a better understanding of their properties as they are needed for design and safety analysis of nuclear installations. This article gives a brief review of the compilations and recommendations developed for the main thermophysical properties of liquid Na, Pb, and Pb–Bi(e). The properties of these coolants were measured in many laboratories, albeit mainly at normal atmospheric pressure and at relatively low temperatures (except for some properties of Na). In general, the reliability of data is satisfactory; however, a large uncertainty still exists for some properties of Pb and Pb–Bi(e). A set of correlations for estimation of the thermophysical properties of Na, Pb, and Pb–Bi(e) in the typical temperature ranges is proposed. For prognosis of their thermodynamic properties at high pressures and temperatures, the relevant equations of state (EOS), based on the proven physical models and available experimental data, are indicated. The critical parameters for Pb and Pb–Bi are not well defined yet. This hinders the EOS validation.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Comprehensive Nuclear Materials |
Subtitle of host publication | Second Edition |
Publisher | Elsevier B.V. |
Chapter | 7.15 |
Pages | 457-481 |
Number of pages | 25 |
Volume | 7 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780081028650 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780081028667 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 22 Jul 2020 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Physics and Astronomy