Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Gamma-Radiolysis Kinetics And Its Role In The Overall Dynamics Of Materials Degradation, Ryan P. Morco

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

The γ-radiation emitted during radioactive decay of the wastes in a nuclear fuel container can affect container corrosion. When a metal/water system is exposed to γ-radiation both the solid metal and the liquid water (or humid air) absorb energy. This energy dissipates mainly as heat in the metal but induces decomposition of water molecules to yield a range of chemically reactive species. The different chemical environments induced in the metal and liquid phases can change the driving forces for surface reactions and thereby influence the rate and pathway of metal corrosion.

This thesis presents the development of radiolysis kinetic models …