Active control of oxygen in molten lead-bismuth eutectic systems to prevent steel corrosion and coolant contamination

The thermodynamic basis for controlling oxygen level in lead-bismuth to prevent steel corrosion and coolant contamination is examined. The operational conditions, including the thermodynamic activity of oxygen, cover gas oxygen partial pressure, mixtures of H-2 and H2O (steam) to obtain such low oxygen partial pressure (<10(-24) atm or around 10(-6) wt% in lead-bismuth), and the voltage signals of one type of oxygen sensors (with a solid electrolyte and molten bismuth reference electrode) are calculated. These results provide the guidance to implement the oxygen control technique. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.