Methodologies for efficient and reliable NPP polymer ageing management

Abstract

The lifetime of existing Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) can potentially be extended to between 60 and 80 years if safety and operability of facilities can be guaranteed. This requires efforts in terms of equipment qualification and ageing management to support stakeholders and decision makers. Polymer ageing is of concern due to their widespread use in NPPs (e.g. each NPP contains approximately 1500 km of cables). Predicting their lifetime and monitoring their integrity remain a challenge. Here, we present a cross-cutting review of two on-going Horizon 2020 projects (TeaM Cables and El Peacetolero). The combination of these 2 projects allows to provide the community with non-destructive and predictive tools that can help assess the reliability and functionality of polymer-based components such as cables or pipes. The paper discusses scientific challenges faced in the beginning and achievements made throughout the projects, including the industrial impact and lessons learnt. Two specific aspects highlighted concern the way the projects sought contact with end users and the balance between industrial and academic partners. The paper concludes with an outlook on follow-up issues related to the long-term operation of NPPs.