Thermophysical property characterization of binary chloride salts for molten salt reactors

Abstract

Thermophysical properties are of critical importance to the successful demonstration of a molten salt reactor (MSR) as they have the most impact on the design, hydraulic function and neutronic behavior. However, there are limited data regarding complex, multicomponent salt systems and no standardized methodologies. Method development has become vital to produce reliable, experimental data to provide evidence to aid in the licensing of next generation reactor materials. Binary, non-actinide salt systems have become the primary focus as the foundation for supplying experimental data for simulations and validating new methodologies and techniques in measurements. Much research is still needed to fully understand the efficacy and viability of salt systems used for the fuel and coolant loops in the MSR. This dissertation focuses on the development of new methodologies and success and failures therewithin. In addition to providing new and adapted methods and techniques, the effects of outside influences and containments on the salt systems have been uncovered during this process.