Nuclear reactor structures - Special steels

The development of new techniques and technologies depends to a large extent on the ability of materials to perform satisfactorily in use and in service. This is particularly true in the nuclear power industry, where high levels of safety, reliability and longevity are essential.

The aim of this article is to present the main materials used in the construction of nuclear reactors, their development and their evolution with technical progress.

The presentation is in two parts:

• firstly, a general description of structural material requirements in terms of quality, quantity and regulations;

• then, a number of examples drawn mainly from the pressurized water sector, showing how these needs have been met.

It is not possible to go into detail here on all the technological developments and characteristics of the products used in nuclear reactor structures. For more detailed information on these issues, please refer to the specialist literature and articles in the Metallurgy treatise.