CX-020909: Determining the Effects of Neutron Irradiation in the Structural Integrity of Additively Manufactured Heat Exchangers for Very Small Modular Reactor Applications – Auburn University

Auburn University (AU), in collaboration with the University of Missouri (MU), proposes to study the effects of neutron irradiation and extreme environment conditions on the structural integrity of parts additively manufactured (AM) via the laser-power bed fusion (L-PBF) method. This project will focus on AM materials most suitable for heat exchangers (HeXs) operating within extreme environments within very small modular reactors (vSMRs). The project will use existing L-PBF equipment at both universities to fabricate specimens. Testing of unirradiated samples will take place at AU, while samples at MU will undergo neutron irradiation/dosing and subsequent testing at the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR).