Alkali-activated concretes for use in nuclear facilities and high temperature environments

This research explores the thermal properties of various alkali-activated concrete (AAC) mortars at temperatures up to 1100°C. Alkali-activated concretes are a type of inorganic polymer that can be used as a binder in place of traditional concrete materials. Many AACs do not require hydration to maintain a stable structure. This is beneficial in high temperature accident conditions, such as a core meltdown at a nuclear power plant or a structural fire, where dehydration occurs. It is also beneficial in high temperature operating conditions, such as high temperature gas or liquid metal reactor vessels. AAC mortars synthesized with fly ash, metakaolin, ground glass, and combinations thereof are investigated. Specifically, this research studies the effects of thermal shock loading and exposure to extreme temperatures on the structural integrity of AACs. To simulate the unique thermal loading that exists in a core meltdown, the AACs in this study are exposed to sudden impulses of heat energy. Additionally, molten metal is poured on the specimens to emulate the effect of molten corium dropping from a reactor core. All specimens are subjected to quenching with water to simulate conditions during the extinguishing of a fire or the cooling of a core meltdown.