An Assessment of Steam-E×plosion-Induced Containment Failure. Part IV: Impact Mechanics, Dissipation, and Vessel Head Failure

Energy dissipation mechanisms and associated energy partition during the energy delivery stage from a steam-explosion-generated slug upon the upper internal structures and reactor vessel head are considered. The results indicate that some previously ignored mechanisms may be significant not only to the quantification of dissipation but also to the whole head loading/failure scenario.