The problems of utilizing graphite of stopped graphite-uranium reactors

Abstract

A list of radioactive nuclides, the activity of which forms the main part of total activity of graphite stack and graphite elements of the construction of stopped industrial graphite-uranium reactors has been defined. The analysis of activity part contributed by these nuclides at different moments of time after stopping reactor was carried out. A set of construction graphite elements, in which there is a possibility of self-sustaining release of the energy stored (Wigner's energy) was determined. It was stated that the most value of the Wigner's energy is achieved in graphite constructions operated in low-temperature region or at high values of flux densities of damaging neutrons and concurrent gamma radiation.