Mathematical Formulation and Reliability Attributes of Nuclear Engineering Materials

This book provides an introduction to nuclear science and its engineering applications. It describes basic nuclear models. Nuclear engineering is the branch of engineering concerned with the application of the nuclear fission as well as the nuclear fusion and the application of other sub-atomic physics based on the principles of nuclear physics. In general nuclear engineering deals with the application of nuclear energy in a variety of branches including nuclear power plants naval propulsion systems food production or medical diagnostic equipment such as MRI machines. Our goal here will be to introduce material engineering of nuclear reactors. The knowledge of thermophysical and nuclear properties of materials is essential for designing nuclear power plants. In general there are two basic types of materials that are used in nuclear power plant. Materials having specific nuclear properties must fulfill a very specific requirement that originates especially in interactions of atomic nuclei. This class corresponds to the nuclear fuels neutron absorbing materials or alloys of low neutron capture cross-sections. For these materials proper nuclear properties are a priority.