What are the uses of boron carbide in nuclear energy?
1. Neutron absorbing materials
Use: Boron carbide is a highly efficient neutron absorber, especially for thermal neutrons (low-energy neutrons)
Application scenarios:
Control rods: In nuclear reactors, boron carbide is often made into control rods or control balls (such as boron carbide balls in boiling water reactors), and the chain reaction rate is controlled by adjusting the insertion depth.
Shielding materials: Used in nuclear waste storage or transportation containers to reduce neutron radiation.
2. Reactor shielding materials
Characteristics: Boron carbide’s high hardness and radiation resistance enable it to effectively shield neutrons and gamma rays, while resisting high temperature and radiation damage.
Application: used for reactor pressure vessel lining, shielding layer of spent fuel storage pool, etc.
3. Nuclear waste treatment
Neutron poisoning: adding boron carbide powder can prevent critical accidents and ensure long-term stable storage of waste.
4. Bulletproof and protection
Military nuclear facilities: Boron carbide useful for impact-resistant protective armor in nuclear facilities to resist ballistic threats or explosion shocks.