Navy Nuclear Reactor Coolant: Lithium Hydride & Water

In summary, the coolant currently used in Navy Nuclear reactors is a special type of Pressurized water reactor containing lithium hydroxide to minimize corrosion. At a pressure of 2200 psia, the saturation temperature of the coolant is approximately 647°F.
  • #1
poormanq45
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First Post :smile:

What type of Coolant is currently used in Navy Nuclear reactors?

I have searched on google and came up with 2 things, Lithium Hydride and Pure Water pressurized to 2200+ PSI. Is there anything else used as a coolant?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
The reactors are special types of Pressurized water reactor. The coolant contains lithium hydroxide (not lithium hydride) to optimize the pH for minimizing corrosion of the core and primary cooling circuit components.
 
  • #3
Thank you for your reply.

Do you know approximately what the boiling point of the coolant is?
 
  • #4
At the pressure (absolute) of 2200 psia (15.16 MPa), the saturation temperature is approximately 647°F (341.7°C). So if the temperature of the fuel cladding reaches this temperature, the one can get onset of nucleate boiling, while the bulk coolant temperature is slightly below saturation temperature.
 

1. What is the purpose of using lithium hydride in a navy nuclear reactor?

Lithium hydride is used as a neutron moderator in navy nuclear reactors. It helps to slow down the fast neutrons produced during nuclear fission, making them more likely to cause a chain reaction and sustain the nuclear reaction in the reactor core.

2. How does lithium hydride interact with water in a navy nuclear reactor?

In a navy nuclear reactor, lithium hydride is dissolved in water to create the primary coolant that flows through the reactor core. The lithium hydride acts as a moderator for the nuclear reaction, while the water acts as a coolant, absorbing the heat produced by nuclear fission.

3. Is lithium hydride safe to use in a navy nuclear reactor?

Yes, lithium hydride is safe to use in a navy nuclear reactor. It is a stable compound and is not radioactive. It is also non-toxic and does not pose a threat to the environment. However, as with any nuclear material, proper handling and safety protocols must be followed to ensure its safe use.

4. How does the use of lithium hydride and water as a coolant compare to other coolant options?

Compared to other coolant options, such as liquid sodium or helium, the use of lithium hydride and water as a coolant in a navy nuclear reactor is considered to be safer and more efficient. Lithium hydride and water are readily available, non-toxic, and do not react violently with air or water like other coolant options.

5. Can lithium hydride be recycled or reused in a navy nuclear reactor?

Yes, lithium hydride can be recycled and reused in a navy nuclear reactor. After the reactor is shut down, the spent lithium hydride can be processed and purified for reuse in new reactor fuel. This helps to reduce the amount of nuclear waste produced and is a more sustainable option for long-term use of nuclear energy.

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