Severe Accident Zircaloy Oxidation/Hydrogen Generation Behavior Noted from In-Pile Test Data

Zircaloy oxidation and hydrogen generation data from several in-pile severe fuel damage experiments are presented and compared. Common findings indicate that the extent of bundle oxidation is largely controlled by steam supply conditions, that high rates of hydrogen generation continued after melt formation and relocation, and that total flow area blockages necessary for termination of oxidation did not develop. Test results indicate no apparent limitations to Zircaloy oxidation other than those due to steam supply and known reaction kinetics.