CX-020785: Integrating multi-modal microscopy techniques and the MOSAIC simulation environment to assess changes in the physical properties and chemical durability of concrete following radiation exposure – University of California, Los Angeles

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) proposes to develop comprehensive protocols for diagnostic and forensic analysis of pristine samples and aged concrete cores harvested from existing nuclear power plants. The tasks associated with this project are (1) Selection and multi-modal characterization of aggregates before and following irradiation; (2) Molecular dynamics studies of amorphization and volume expansion at the atomic scale; (3) Exploiting multi-modal characterization to establish sensitivity to chemical degradation; (4) MOSAIC-based simulations of micro-mechanical response and concrete properties resulting from irradiation-induced aggregate alterations and damage; and (3) Informing and empowering SLRs by technology transfer. Existing laboratory facilities will be used.