Materials and Processes for Nuclear Energy Today and in the Future

As a low carbon energy source, nuclear energy plays a reinforced role in a sustainable electricity mix. However, strengthening the share of nuclear energy implies the guarantee of safe, long-term operation of current systems and potentially the fostering of new constructions. Service life extension – as well as the design of future nuclear power plants – relies on the availability of robust and qualified structural materials, and their manufacturing processes. The science and engineering of materials are key in selecting robust material solutions and predicting aging mechanisms.

Materials and Processes for Nuclear Energy Today and in the Future reviews different reactor concepts and fuel management systems. Nuclear equipment has to maintain integrity under extreme conditions, such as high temperature, radiation, loads and/or corrosive environments. This book analyzes the requirements on components, and introduces reference solutions regarding materials and processes. It describes the materials’ main properties, their limits and the current R&D trends. Lastly, innovations are discussed, such as materials with enhanced properties, advanced manufacturing or using AI.

Fanny Balbaud-Célérier is Head of the Corrosion and Materials Behavior research division. She is a Fellow and Research Director of the CEA in the field of corrosion and materials science, and specializes in nonaqueous corrosion phenomena.

Céline Cabet has a PhD in Material Science and Engineering, and has worked for the French CEA since 2000. She holds the title of CEA Research Director, and is currently Deputy Head of the Advanced Materials and Processes Research division (SRMA).