On the mechanism of gamma-radiation-induced corrosion of copper in water

Abstract

Radiation-induced corrosion of the copper canister used to contain the spent nuclear fuel in future geological repositories is a process of potential importance for the long-term safety. In recent years, several experimental studies have been conducted to elucidate the mechanism of this process. However, experimental observations and numerical simulations based on the proposed mechanism are not in agreement. In this work we have explored the mechanism further. Based on a series of experimental observations we propose a new mechanism where the corrosion of copper is driven by radiolytically produced O2. © 2021 Elsevier Ltd