Low Cost Neutron Absorption Materials for Generation IV Designs

70789S02-II There are no low cost solutions to the problem of neutron radiation in nuclear power plants. Current protective materials and techniques for making them are very expensive and are limited in availability. This project will utilize boron carbide (B4C) (boron for neutron absorption), coated with nickel (metal to join and protect the boron) and applied with thermal spray coating techniques, to develop a protective neutron absorption material. Phase I accomplished the initial feasibility and scale-up. In particular, Phase I demonstrated that neutron absorption could be varied with the composition of B4C, and then identified a large-quantity U.S. manufacturer for nickel carbonyl, quantified the cost savings that would accrue from using Ni/boron carbide (Ni/B4C) for neutron absorption, and obtained initial corrosion data for the Ni/B4C system. Phase II will optimize the coating processes (both plasma spray and CVD powder) and composition, manufacture the precursor to lower cost of the product, generate materials data for design candidates, and select and fabricate components. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: Nickel/boron carbide powders should have application in composite materials, thermal spray coating, and wear resistance. In addition, the nickel coating should have application to electronics and filler materials.