Numerical Simulation of Pressure Wave Propagation and Its Effect on Damage to the Reactor Cavity under TNT Detonation for Steam Explosion

In a severe accident, molten corium may penetrate the reactor pressure vessel and enter cooling water in cavity, then steam explosion occur. Steam explosions can initiate waves threaten structural integrity of cavity. To investigate propagation characteristics waves, including pattern, attenuation, amplification under TNT detonation, coupled numerical approach combined with arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian fluid–structure interaction methods are utilized. The peak pressures incident reflected shock decrease rapidly increasing distance from charge center, whereas cavity be between 1.30 1.67 times pressure. Then, analysis is performed to evaluate damages concrete, liner plate, reinforcements. From results, localized superficial concrete observed basemat; however, risk damage resulting collapse these components very low. plate reinforcements also low since maximum strain values much lower than failure criteria. Finally, will maintained during detonation for explosion.