Computer Modelling of Crack Propagation in Porous Reactor Core Graphite

This study aims to develop computer models, with a microstructure representative of the PGA graphite, to contribute to the understanding of the relationship between the amount of porosity, the load-displacement behaviour and crack propagation. The project is in two linked parts, the first provides a model of the porous graphite which is then introduced into a lattice type finite element model to provide the load-displacement and crack propagation predictions. Microstructures consisting of matrix and pores with added aligned filler particles, typical of needle coke, were studied. The purpose was to isolate the effect of filler particles on fracture strength and the fracture path. In the paper crack paths and fracture mechanisms are discussed for different amounts of porosity and various filler particle arrangements.