A geometrical model to describe the alpha dose rates from particulates of UO$_2$ in water

TL;DR

This paper introduces a geometrical model to accurately predict alpha dose rates from UO$_2$ particulates in water, emphasizing the impact of particle size and geometry on radiation emission and potential fuel dissolution.

Contribution

A novel piecewise function-based model that describes alpha escape probability considering particulate geometry and size, improving understanding of dose rates in nuclear fuel particles.

Findings

Significant increase in dose rate for particles smaller than 50 μm.

Geometry effects are more pronounced for particles with radii less than 50 μm.

Model aids in predicting dissolution and hydrogen release from spent nuclear fuel.

Abstract

A model investigating the role of geometry on the alpha dose rate of spent nuclear fuel has been developed. This novel approach utilises a new piecewise function to describe the probability of alpha escape as a function of particulate radius, decay range within the material, and position from the surface. The alpha dose rates were produced for particulates of radii 1 $\mu$m to 10 mm, showing considerable changes in the 1 $\mu$m to 50 $\mu$m range. Results indicate that for decreasing particulate sizes, approaching radii equal to or less than the range of the $\alpha$-particle within the fuel, there is a significant increase in the rate of energy emitted per unit mass of fuel material. The influence of geometry is more significant for smaller radii, showing clear differences in dose rate curves below 50 $\mu$m. These considerations are essential for any future accurate prediction of the dissolution rates and hydrogen gas release, driven by the radiolytic yields of particulate spent nuclear fuel.