The Effects of Nuclear Radiation on the Mechanical Properties of Concrete

Synopsis: Previously published experimental data on the effect of nuclear radiation on the properties of plain concrete are surrrnarized and 2 evaluated. Neutron radiation with a fluence of rrore than 1 x 1o 19 n/cm may have a detrimental effect on concrete strength and rrodulus of elasticity. Thermal ooefficient of expansion, thermal conductivity and shielding properties of concrete are little affected by radiation. Radiation damage is mainly caused by lattice defects in the aggregates which cause a volume increase of aggregates and concrete. Different aggregates show different radiation resistance so that the selection of suitable aggregates is the rrost important parameter in the design of a radiation resistant concrete.