Innovator offers solution to nuclear reactor cracks thru nano concrete

Institute for Solid Waste Research & Ecological Balance (INSWAREB), a Visakhapatnam-based techno-scientific research body in the NGO segment, has claimed a major breakthrough in ensuring nuclear safety by offering a solution to nuclear reactor cracks.

Founder-Director of the institute and a noted innovator, N. Kalidas said after extensive research, he has found a durable solution on how to address cracks being spotted in nuclear reactor structures. He said since INSWAREB has realised the limitations of concrete in nuclear plants, with particular reference to resist radiation in shield walls,they are offering Nano concrete (NAC) as a means of solution.

The ceramic-like microstructure of NAC offers better resistance as against conventional concrete with aggregate and related transition zones around the stone. Fly ash contains a mineral called ‘mullite’ by over 20-30% which is moderately resistant to radiation. Since NAC is

constituted with 60-70% fly ash, it is for sure to resist radiation. If need be, some more radiation-resistive chemicals can be added to improve the property. He told the media here.

Kalidas said if adding aggregate is indispensable, INSWAREB has offered a design of composite wall, constituting the core with heavyweight aggregate, covered by nano concrete as durable plates on both sides for resistivity and durability. Due studies are planned to validate this subject before putting it to use. Manipal Institute of Technology, who has done considerable studies on NAC including doctoral research, has offered to undertake studies and is going to be a part of this project. Thus, INSWAREB is poised to render service to BARC and NPCIL in addition to availing service for the reactor.

INSWAREB acknowledged the support extended by former MP GVL Narasimha Rao, Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State, Atomic Energy, for their support and encouragement at Central level. INSWAREB further acknowledged the support extended by AP Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Industries Secretary N. Yuvraj, MLA and TDP State president Palla Srinivasa Rao.