Why would one expect corium to burn?Kutt said:What temperature (in Fahrenheit) does molten corium burn at?
Anything hot enough to burn through thick layers of steel and concrete must be insanely hot.
Molten corium is a mixture of materials that is produced during a nuclear reactor meltdown. It is formed when the nuclear fuel rods become overheated and melt, releasing a combination of uranium, zirconium, and other materials into the reactor's core.
Molten corium can burn at temperatures as high as 2800°C (5072°F). This extreme heat can cause damage to the reactor and surrounding structures, making it difficult to contain and control.
The main danger of molten corium is its ability to release radioactive materials into the environment. This can lead to contamination of air, water, and soil, which can have serious health consequences for humans and wildlife. Additionally, the extreme heat can cause damage to the reactor and surrounding structures, making it difficult to contain and control.
Molten corium is typically contained by a structure called a "core catcher," which is designed to catch and cool the molten material. Water is then used to cool the corium and solidify it, creating a solid mass that is easier to handle and dispose of.
After a nuclear reactor meltdown, the molten corium is typically left in its containment structure until it cools and solidifies. It is then removed and stored in a secure location for long-term storage and disposal. The surrounding area may also need to be decontaminated to prevent any further release of radioactive materials into the environment.