High Energy Density Device impact on a Surrogate Rodlet and the Feasibility of a Numerical Approach

The paper describes the capabilities of a numerical model for high energy density device (HEDD) impact on a spent fuel surrogate rodlet and the early results obtained. The model is developed within the commercial code LS-Dyna and uses the explicit solver as well as the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) approach coupled with finite elements. The results obtained are discussed in terms of particulated material quantity, cladding length disrupted and particle mass distribution. A comparison is made with the experimental data provided. A link is established between the cerium surrogate and uranium behavior regarding the same quantities, being stated that uranium oxide is to be studied during the two subsequent experimental phases.