How to Prevent Another Fukushima Explosion

Scientific American - David Biello - July 28, 2013

A new material for protecting nuclear fuel could cut down on the risk of explosions like the one at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Traditionally, a zirconium alloy cladding is used to encase the uranium fuel rods; however, this alloy, when heated past design specifications, splits water molecules to produce hydrogen gas.

M.I.T. researchers have come up with a new cladding made out of silicon carbide which would hopefully drastically reduce the risk of hydrogen explosions at nuclear power plants.

- Read Complete Article -