PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE CHALLENGES TO CONCRETE IN THE NUCLEAR INDUSTRY

The paper starts with a historical review of the manner in which concrete was used conventionally in the design of containment and other structures in new facilities in the nuclear industry. It then looks at the various postulated extreme events and the manner in which concrete is challenged. Such events include seismic loading, drop loads, and thermal excursions. An example from the Author's experience is used to illustrate this. In recent years, assessment of existing structures has become the norm, and the paper addresses the manner in which concrete structures can be evaluated, and the way in which design principals can be extended to justify existing designs. The paper will then conclude with the way in which concrete technology will be challenged in the future, including de-commissioning of structures and hopefully new build power plant. Again the use to which concrete will be put will challenge the design envelope, in particular in the use of special grouts for encapsulation; and in design for building life considerably in excess of the conventional 50 years.

• ABSTRACT

• INTRODUCTION

• THE PAST

• THE PRESENT

• THE FUTURE

• CONCLUSIONS