Research Plan on Failure Modes by Extreme Loadings Under Design Extension Conditions

Abstract

As the important lessons learned from Fukushima-nuclear power plant accident, preparation based on Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) with adequate scenario is strongly recognized as essential countermeasures against severe accidents, which are possible in nuclear plants. IAEA requires design extension conditions (DEC) for considering severe accidents. From a view point of structural design, the strength evaluation approach for DEC is somewhat different from conventional one for design basis accident (DBA). There are additional failure modes by extreme loadings under DEC. Best estimation with possible scenarios is necessary for PRA and planning of accident management (AM). This paper introduces study plan on failure modes and their mechanisms by extreme loadings under DEC. First step is the list-up of possible failure modes which should be assumed for extreme loadings such as very high temperature, high pressure and great earthquakes. Next is clarification of failure mechanism and relevant limit strength. One of examples is the failure modes of structural discontinuities under high pressure such as ductile fracture and local failure. Another example is ones of pipes under severe earthquake such as collapse and low cycle fatigue. To clarify above questions, such different scale tests were planned and conducted as the fundamental tests with simulated materials, structural element tests and structural tests. Preliminary results of above tests and next plans are explained.