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Water Chemistry

Program Overview

Program Description

Water chemistry conditions at nuclear power plants can impact corrosion rates, fuel performance, and radiationmanagement. In light of increasing demands on chemistry staff and reductions in the number of staff, nuclearpower plants are challenged to maintain effective water chemistry control. Improved water chemistry can reducethe frequency of transient fault conditions and overall impurity concentrations. However, continuedimprovements are needed to optimize water chemistry and balance the resulting impacts and improvements onsystem materials corrosion, fuel performance, and radiation fields.

The Water Chemistry Program develops and updates water chemistry guidelines for nuclear reactors based onindustry research and plant experience. The program also develops water chemistry optimization tools tomitigate corrosion, achieve and maintain design fuel performance standards, and minimize plant radiation fields.

Research ValueThe Water Chemistry Program develops technical guidance that can be incorporated into the day-to-day dutiesof nuclear plant chemists. Research results help nuclear plants create strategic water chemistry plans formaximizing plant availability and cost efficiency in a manner consistent with safety and regulatory requirements.Water Chemistry Program members gain access to the following:

Cost-effective chemistry optimization tools and techniques to improve plant availability and safety. New chemistry applications through first-of-a-kind technology demonstrations. For example, field

demonstration of a polyacrylic acid dispersant showed a 50% reduction in corrosion product fouling,increasing steam generator availability.

Software-enabled improvements in chemistry control, diagnostic capabilities, and staff productivity. Enhanced technology transfer through plant-specific collaborations. On-site assessment support to benchmark plant chemistry controls and identify opportunities to optimize

chemistry protocols.

Approach

The Water Chemistry Program combines basic and applied research with industry operating experience todevelop guidance and technologies tailored to the needs of the nuclear power industry. The Program provides acomprehensive suite of water chemistry tools, including guidelines, new operating and monitoring technologies,chemistry control and assessment software, user groups, and on-site assessments.

Conduct research to improve the understanding of water chemistry impacts on nuclear plant performanceand related impacts on equipment and systems.

Develop scientifically and technically based water chemistry guidelines to minimize operational risks toplant materials, maintain design fuel performance standards, and mitigate plant radiation fields.

Conduct first-of-a-kind technology demonstrations targeting improved water chemistry control. Design and deploy software tools that can accurately and cost-effectively monitor and assess water

chemistry.

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Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

Accomplishments

Electric Power Research Institute's (EPRIs) Water Chemistry Program supports nuclear power industry effortsto improve water chemistry control and minimize water chemistry impacts on other plant systems andcomponents. Water chemistry research provides members with the guidance and technologies to improveoperational flexibility, reduce operations and maintenance costs, reduce dose, and reduce material degradationrisks.

Supported first continuous operational application of a chemical dispersant to reduce sludgeaccumulation in steam generators. Dispersant use maximizes tube life and mitigates future powerreduction from loss of heat transfer capability.

Conducted laboratory testing to confirm the technical feasibility of using chemical dispersants to managesteam generator deposits during the long-path recirculation cleanup process. Documented a genericqualification of a lead plant for an initial industry application and prepared a set of recommendations toguide development of an initial application plan.

Evaluated the use of septa and precoat media in controlling feedwater iron in boiling water reactors.Results will provide input to the next revision of the EPRI Condensate Polishing Guidelines.

Continued collecting water chemistry data through EPRI's Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment projectto benchmark specific water chemistry regimes and optimize plant operation. As of December 2009, thepressurized water reactor (PWR) database contained 639 cycles of primary and secondary chemistrydata from 67 U.S. and 80 non-U.S. PWR plants. The boiling water reactor (BWR) database includes datafrom all 35 U.S. and 11 non-U.S. BWR plants.

Published first revision of the BWR Shutdown and Startup Chemistry Operating Experience andSourcebook. This sourcebook summarizes BWR good practices for controlling corrosion product transportduring shutdowns, particularly refueling outages, and for startup chemistry control to minimizeintergranular stress corrosion cracking.

Optimized procedures for detecting trace inorganic cations in ultrapure water using capillaryelectrophoresis, a method capable of rapid detection of very low concentrations of simple metallic andnon-metal ions.

Improved chemistry software by incorporating the PWR and BWR Shutdown Chemistry Calculator andAnalyzer into ChemWorks Tools;and updated the MULTEQ Database with new and revised species.

Current Year Activities

Water Chemistry Program research and development for 2011 will focus on technology developments andassessments to continually improve guidance and tools for optimized chemistry control. Specific efforts willinclude the following:

Review the boiling water reactor water chemistry guidelines and the pressurized water reactor secondarywater chemistry guidelines to evaluate gaps related to industry initiatives. Based on review, next revisionof the pressurized water reactor primary water chemistry guidelines may begin.

Complete a generic safety assessment in support of elevated hydrogen application on the primary side ofa four-loop Westinghouse pressurized water reactor. Coordinate field implementation of an elevatedhydrogen program at a lead plant, with implementation to begin in 2012.

Revise the pressurized water reactor zinc application guidelines by updating current industry experience,identifying best practices, developing a long-term zinc injection strategy, and providing guidance foroperational decision making.

Assess new plant designs and planned operation against the current Water Chemistry Guidelines. Thisanalysis will form the basis of future activities to define chemistry guidance for new plants.

Continue development of boiling water and pressurized water reactor monitoring and assessment tools tobenchmark the industry and evaluate chemistry improvement opportunities.

Begin revision of the condensate polishing guidelines for boiling water and pressurized water reactors. Develop recommendations for methods to adjust reactor water chemistry such that reduction of

radioisotope levels can be accomplished during periods of high moisture carryover.

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Estimated 2011 Program Funding

$4.0 million

Program Manager

Keith Fruzzetti, 650-855-2211, [email protected]

Summary of Projects

Project Number Project Title Description

P41.09.03.01 Chemistry Guidelines(base)

This program element provides up-to-date guidelines, developsleading technologies, and performs critical assessments in support ofsafe, reliable, and optimized water chemistry operation. Theprograms key products are the Water Chemistry Guidelines, whichare produced in collaboration with the Electric Power ResearchInstitute (EPRI) issue programs, based on ongoing research andplant and industry experience.

P41.09.03.02 First-of-a-kind TechnologyDemonstrations (base)

This project implements new chemistry technologies at a plant siteunder controlled and monitored conditions and develops detailedapplication guidance for optimized application.

P41.09.03.03 Software Development(base)

In support of plant chemists, ChemWorks codes provide a consistentand reliable means for assessing chemistries that could impactcomponent/asset management strategies.

P41.09.03.15a SMART ChemWorksTM

User Group - Maintenance

and Support(supplemental)

This project provides support to the 24 current users of SMARTChemWorks, including two from the BWR fleet. Plant and corporate

personnel have access to the SMART ChemWorks technologythrough a web interface, and can monitor plant chemistry on acontinuous basis. An alert system is customized for each plant.

P41.09.03.15b SMART ChemWorksTM

User Group - NewInstallation (supplemental)

Installation of SMART ChemWorks requires a coordinated effortbetween EPRI engineers and plant team members. A one-time on-site meeting is required between team members to establish projectscope and timelines to ensure a successful implementation plan.SMART ChemWorks requires that a data transfer tool be installed atthe plant and that access be provided to the EPRI servers, afterwhich plant personnel will have access to SMART ChemWorksthrough a web interface. Additional site-specific customizations aresupported over the first 3 months as the model is developed andadjusted based on plant information.

P41.09.03.15d ChemWorksTM

User Group(supplemental)

The ChemWorks User Group provides several mechanisms forenhancing the ChemWorks software codes and their application atnuclear plants. Through industry forums, newsletters, annualmeetings (U.S. and international), and webcast sessions, EPRItechnical staff support utility application of the codes and gain insightinto user experience that can lead to needed software modificationsand improvements.


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P41.09.03.15e Chemistry TechnicalStrategy Group(supplemental)

The Chemistry Technical Strategy Group provides a forum formembers to exchange ideas and lessons learned related to strategicmanagement of BWR and PWR chemistry programs. The 3-yearmembership provides participants with all the benefits of an annualmembership plus a full chemistry assessment once during the 3-yearperiod. Participation on this basis is at a lower cost than having oneassessment performed and subscribing to the Technical StrategyGroup on an annual basis for 3 years.

P41.09.03.16a PWR Secondary Cycle pHOptimization(supplemental)

To help utilities minimize corrosion in the secondary cycle, EPRI hasdeveloped a process to evaluate plant pH optimization programs.EPRI experts help plant managers evaluate the status of theircorrosion-product transport and local pHs throughout the secondarycycle. Evaluations include the following: A mass balance of corrosion products around the secondary

cycle to determine the corrosion source Calculation of amine concentrations and local pH values at major

locations in the secondary cycle using the EPRI Plant ChemistrySimulator

Calculation of feedwater iron concentrations Estimation of polisher run length as a function of feedwater

amine concentrations Economic analysis comparing the use of different potential

amines

P41.09.03.16d PWR DispersantApplication Support(supplemental)

This project provides plant-specific support for successful dispersantapplication, which can reduce steam generator fouling by as much as50% based on plant trials and early results from application at Exelon.

P41.09.03.16e PWR Primary andSecondary Resins and

Filters User Group(supplemental)

The PWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Groupprovides a forum for collecting industry best practices that can be

used by member utilities to optimize operations with regard todemineralizer and filter performance.

P41.09.03.16f PWR Primary ZincApplication User Group(supplemental)

The PWR Primary Zinc Application User Group provides membersaccess to an annual meeting to update members on technologydevelopments and to share experiences and best practices. As partof the Chemistry Monitoring Assessment Program, key parametersfrom utilities will be tracked and trended based on cycle performancein radiation exposure and zinc injection.

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P41.09.03.17a BWR Cycle ChemistryEvaluation (supplemental)

This project will assist plant operators in evaluating their cyclechemistry and in developing a roadmap for chemistry improvementsby performing the following: Reviewing the technical basis for the site chemistry trending

program using EPRI guidelines and other industry standards Reviewing the effectiveness and completeness of chemistry-

related corrective actions taken during previous cycles Evaluating and trending chemistry results using EPRI-developed

tools to document behaviors Recommending site chemistry program improvements based on

trends and observations Conducting on-site walkdowns (as needed) of sample systems to

review effectiveness Assessing laboratory operations with respect to communication,

equipment operation and maintenance activities, training, andimplementation of industry lessons learned

P41.09.03.17b BWR Startup HydrogenInjection Evaluation(supplemental)

This project will assist plant operators in identifying preferredlocations for early hydrogen injection during BWR startup as well assupport initial planning efforts for possible plant modifications toaccommodate the injection process. The evaluation team will performthe following: Review plant drawings and documents for injection locations Perform a plant walkdown to confirm preferred locations Identify plant modifications required for injection tie-ins and

services Determine space availability should hydrogen gas cylinders be

used Document the results of the evaluation and provide plant-specific

recommendations

P41.09.03.17c BWR Feedwater IronOptimization Support(supplemental)

This project supports efforts to improve the performance assessmentaccuracy of individual condensate filtration/demineralizer vessels foriron optimization. Support at a given plant includes the following: Temporary corrosion product sampler setup Baseline evaluation of current sampling/analysis program Consultation with station personnel for execution of site-specific

sampling program Site-specific sampling program and sample analysis (lab analysis

generally performed on-site by site personnel) Compilation and evaluation of results Site-specific recommendations regarding septa, precoated

material and operating conditions to achieve feedwater ironcontrol goals (electronic report included)

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P41.09.03.17d BWR Condensate FilterUser Group(supplemental)

Participation in the BWR Condensate Filter User Group providesaccess to an annual conference, electronic reports, newsletters, andindustry alerts. Current issues include the following: Pleated septa experience and septa quality control Septa and precoated materials optimization Use of specialty resins for cobalt removal Equipment upgrades and related issues and resolutions Optimization of iron and soluble species removal Control of sulfate releases due to pleated septa age and

attachment hardware failure Minimization of radwaste generation

P41.09.03.17f BWR Zinc User Group(supplemental)

Zinc injection has become a key technology for minimizing drywelldose rates under the highly reducing chemistry conditions establishedby hydrogen and noble metal water chemistry programs. While morezinc can be better for dose control, chemistry guidelines limitfeedwater zinc concentrations to control the buildup of tenacious crud

on the fuel cladding. The BWR Zinc User Group enables plants toaccomplish the following: Share plant experiences and lessons learned with zinc

application Review the BWR chemistry monitoring database for trends and

updates Monitor zinc performance results based on available chemistry,

radiation field, and fuel surveillance data Communicate issues and improvement plans for active and

passive zinc injection systems Identify needed research involving zinc addition

Chemistry Guidelines (base) (052415)

Key Research Question

Improving water chemistry has contributed to a reduction in the frequency of transient fault conditions and anoverall reduction in impurity concentrations. However, continued improvements are sought to optimize waterchemistry and balance the resulting impact on system materials corrosion, fuel performance, and radiationfields. In addition, advanced technology is needed to improve water chemistry control.

Approach

The programs key products are the Water Chemistry Guidelines, which are produced in collaboration with theEPRI issue programs, based on ongoing research and plant and industry experience. Each guideline is atechnical consensus document developed by industry experts to optimize water chemistry programs and controlmethods, thereby maximizing the long-term availability and safe operation of nuclear power plants. Guidelinesare formally reviewed on an annual cycle and generally revised on a 4-year cycle. Much of the work involvestechnology developments needed to improve guidelines, including water chemistry control methods, improvedmonitoring techniques, and chemical additives to control corrosion, reduce radiation fields, and maintain fuelperformance.

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Impact

Improved water chemistry technology to support corrosion mitigation, fuel performance, radiationmanagement, water chemistry control methods, and improved monitoring techniques

Optimization methods that nuclear plants can use to create strategic water chemistry plans customized

for maximizing plant availability and cost-efficiency in a manner consistent with safety and regulatoryrequirements

How to Apply Results

Technology development and Water Chemistry Guidelinescan be applied by members to implement improvedmonitoring techniques, as well as optimize strategic water chemistry plans. These products must be read,understood, and implemented by the chemistry community.

2011 Products

Product Title & DescriptionPlanned

Completion DateProduct Type

BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Sampling: Summarizessampling/analysis practices (frequencies, analysis methods, feedwatersample line velocity) by the 49 participating boiling water reactors (BWRs) forkey reactor water parameters (for example, chloride, sulfate, metals, Co-60,and Zn-65) and feedwater metals.

03/31/11TechnicalUpdate

BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Condensate Filtration:Two areas are covered. The first area covers deep bed condensatedemineralizer ion exchange resins, providing details on the resin typesapplied, resin properties, quantities used, and practices such as the use ofanion resin underlays at plants with both Deep Bed Only and Filter + DeepBed condensate polishing systems. The second area covers condensatefilter demineralizer precoat materials, providing details on the composition ofthe precoat materials applied (for example, all powdered resin, resin/fibermixtures, and mixtures containing weak acid resins), properties, and

quantities used.


BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Mitigation PerformanceIndicator: Provides annual updates of industry status and progress inmeeting goals for chemistry programs designed to achieve intergranularstress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) mitigation of reactor external piping andinternal components and to meet criteria for piping inspection relief.


PWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Primary Chemistry:Provides information on operating and shutdown chemistry, chemistry controlmethods, and plant changes from participating utilities. Includes evaluationsand specific assessments on various chemistry control programs.


PWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Secondary Chemistry:Provides information on operating chemistry, chemistry control methods, andplant changes from participating utilities. Includes evaluations and specific

assessments of various chemistry control programs.


PWR Zinc Application Sourcebook, Revision 1: Revision 1 to the PWRZinc Application Guidelinesbased on research developments, new guidance,and plant experience since the initial publication in 2006. This revision alsowill focus on additional information and guidance from plants alreadyimplementing primary zinc injection.

09/30/11 Technical Report


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BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Shutdown Chemistry andDose Rates: A summary of shutdown chemistry and drywell radiation doserates. This provides the only known detailed industry compilation of such

data. This is updated annually.

A summary of shutdown drywell radiation dose rates. This provides the onlyknown detailed industry compilation of such data. This is updated after springand fall refueling outages, when new end-of-cycle drywell radiation surveydata are normally available. (February and June)


Generic Safety Assessment for Application of Elevated Hydrogen onthe Primary Side of a Four-loop Westinghouse Pressurized WaterReactor: Completion of all necessary safety-related analyses as well asidentification of any necessary updates to plant Technical Specificationsbased on recommendations from EPRI Report 1015017, Evaluation ofAltering the Hydrogen Concentration for Mitigation of Primary Water StressCorrosion Cracking.


BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Chemistry Summary:Captures the status of important reactor water, feedwater, and condensatechemistry parameters and relates them to plant design and operating factors.


Waste Class B/C Reduction Guide for Chemistry Managers: Providestechnical guidance on Waste Class B/C Reduction Strategies and addressesimpacts on chemistry programs.


2011 Interim Review of the Pressurized Water Reactor Secondary WaterChemistry Guidelines, Revision 7: Complete and document the requiredannual review of the PWR Secondary Water Chemistry Guidelinesin light ofindustry research and plant experience.


First-of-a-kind Technology Demonstrations (base) (052418)


Implementing new chemistry technologies typically requires demonstration at a plant site under controlled andmonitored conditions, informed by EPRI expertise and management. Data and information from thesedemonstrations are instrumental in facilitating technology commercialization.

Approach

The project develops and tests new chemistry additives, new analysis methods, new instrumentation, andapplication guidelines on how to efficiently use new chemistry technology. Field testing is an essential part of thedevelopment process, as many new developments would not be implemented without an initial plantdemonstration.

Impact Provides experience and plant data from the first demonstration of new technologies Provides industry application guidelines based on lessons learned


Members gain access to data and guidance that can be used to inform technology application at other facilities.

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2011 Products



Capillary Electrophoresis Sourcebook for BWRs: A comprehensive

sourcebook for optimized application of capillary electrophoresis for boilingwater reactor (BWR) feedwater anion and cation measurements.


Water Chemistry Assessment for New Plants - continuation:Assessment will continue, per the work in 2010, for other new designs (theABWR and AP1000 designs were completed in 2010). The GE-H economicsimplified boiling water reactor (ESBWR), Areva U.S. EPR, and MHI U.S.advanced pressurized water reactor (APWR) will be investigated. The workprovides an assessment of plant design and planned operation against thecurrent Water Chemistry Guidelinesto identify gaps and the path forward forany needed revised guidance. This project is will be conducted Incollaboration with the Advanced Nuclear Technology Program.


Software Development (base) (052419)


Nuclear power plants must meet strict system performance guidelines as specified by EPRI chemistryguidelines, the Institute for Nuclear Power Operations (INPO), and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)to ensure pressure boundary integrity, fuel performance, and minimized radiation fields. Members requirecalculation tools that are robust and consistent with industry practice to manage their programs within thespecified guidance.

Approach

Chemistry managers, engineers, and technicians rely on EPRI ChemWorksTM tools for developing andoptimizing their chemistry programs. The results from EPRI ChemWorks software programs are used in avariety of chemistry system evaluations, including high-temperature pH calculations for reactivity control in

pressurized water reactors, hideout return evaluations for the secondary side of the steam generators, andestimating corrosion product inventory during shutdown. From these predictions, chemistry personnel canassess corrosion control, guide life-cycle strategies, and optimize the overall cost of the chemistry program. Thisresearch area ensures the ChemWorks tools reflect the latest industry operating experience and havefunctionality commensurate with industry needs.

Impact

ChemWorks codes provide members with the opportunity to evaluate, optimize, and train plant personnelon various chemistry programs and strategies.

Continued optimization of ChemWorks can provide members with direct cost reductions. ChemWorks codes allow assessments of chemistries that impact component/asset management

strategies.


Chemistry personnel can implement the ChemWorks codes to evaluate the effects of chemistry on a variety ofsituations, including corrosion mitigation, amine optimization, and resin life management.


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2011 Products



ChemWorks Tools version 4.0: Additional functionality and improvements

will be implemented based on the 5-year plan.12/23/11 Software

MULTEQ Database version 7.0: Incorporation of significant updates basedon the recommendations and work of the MULTEQ Database Committee.This activity will be conducted in collaboration with the Fuel Reliability andSteam Generator Management Programs.


SMART ChemWorksTM User Group - Maintenance and Support (supplemental) (007452)


Chemistry staffs in the nuclear power industry continue to shrink as a result of economic pressures and theaging work force. Highly skilled personnel spend too much time completing mundane but necessary tasks, while

the backlog of important, but less time-sensitive obligations, continues to grow.

Approach

EPRIS SMART ChemWorks is a real-time plant water chemistry monitoring and advisory system that aidschemistry staff by completing routine chemistry analysis, identifying early indications of adverse plant chemistry,and alerting personnel to emerging issues. Continued maintenance and support is required to ensure SMARTChemWorks incorporates the latest operating experience and is broadly applicable across the global nuclearindustry.

Impact

SMART ChemWorks uses sophisticated mathematical models and pattern-recognition techniques to identifyabnormal conditions. Once installed, plant managers can look forward to increased efficiency and better use ofplant personnel, reduced risk of plant components damage, increased chemistry monitoring coverage and early

detection of chemistry problems, improved control of chemical injection systems, reduced cost due tooptimization of grab sample frequencies, and reduced out-of-specification time for instrumentation.


The SMART ChemWorks system relies on continuous chemistry monitoring (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)and real-time evaluation of plant chemistry conditions, accurate and prompt diagnosis of abnormal chemistry,and instantaneous alerting to adverse chemistry trends through an email/paging system and web page alerts.The output from SMART ChemWorks represents technical intelligence on which plant chemists can take actionas appropriate.


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SMART ChemWorksTM User Group - New Installation (supplemental)


Chemistry staffs in the nuclear power industry continue to shrink as a result of economic pressures and theaging work force. Highly skilled personnel spend too much time completing mundane but necessary tasks, whilethe backlog of important, but less time-sensitive obligations, continues to grow.

Approach

EPRIS SMART ChemWorks is a real-time plant water chemistry monitoring and advisory system that aidschemistry staff by completing routine chemistry analysis, identifying early indications of adverse plant chemistry,and alerting personnel to emerging issues. Installation of SMART ChemWorks requires a coordinated effortbetween EPRI engineers and plant team members. A one time on-site meeting is required between teammembers to establish project scope and timelines to ensure a successful implementation plan.

Impact

SMART ChemWorks uses sophisticated mathematical models and pattern-recognition techniques to identify

abnormal conditions. Once installed, plant managers can look forward to increased efficiency and better use ofplant personnel, reduced risk of plant components damage, increased chemistry monitoring coverage and earlydetection of chemistry problems, improved control of chemical injection systems, reduced cost due tooptimization of grab sample frequencies, and reduced out-of-specification time or instrumentation


The SMART ChemWorks system relies on continuous chemistry monitoring (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)and real-time evaluation of plant chemistry conditions, accurate and prompt diagnosis of abnormal chemistry,and instantaneous alerting to adverse chemistry trends through an email/paging system and web page alerts.The output from SMART ChemWorks represents technical intelligence on which plant chemists can take actionas appropriate.

ChemWorksTM User Group (supplemental) (006521)


Economic pressures, work demand and reduced staffing require chemists to spend more time in the field andless time evaluating changes in the chemistry programs. ChemWorks provides users with a simple set of toolsto quickly evaluate plant chemistry controls.

Approach

The ChemWorks User Group provides several mechanisms for enhancing the ChemWorks software codes andtheir application at nuclear plants. Through industry forums, newsletters, annual meetings (U.S. andinternational), and webcast sessions, EPRI technical staff gain insight into user experience that can lead toneeded software modifications and improvements.

Impact

ChemWorks uses sophisticated mathematical models to aid plant chemists in developing optimal chemistryprograms and applying appropriate chemistry controls that support long-term equipment reliability. Users Groupmembers provide input into continued software improvements that reflect industry needs and experience.


User Group members receive direct support via meetings and product development as well as individual trainingon ChemWorks codes.


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Chemistry Technical Strategy Group (supplemental)


The Chemistry Technical Strategy Group provides a forum for discussing technical issues regarding thestrategic management of BWR and PWR chemistry programs. Emerging chemical issues challenge plant staff inboth the day-to-day and long-term management of chemistry programs. This group enables members toexchange ideas and information related to emerging issues as well as lessons learned.

The Chemistry Technical Strategy Group is available in 3-year and 1-year membership options. The 3-yearmembership inlcudes 1 full cycle chemistry assessment.

Approach

The Chemistry Technical Strategy Group, available as a 3-year membership, enables plant chemists fromBWRs and PWRs to share best practices and discuss chemistry challenges. Meetings will include generalsessions to address common chemistry issues and break-out sessions to address issues specific to BWRs and

PWRs.

In addition to the member forum for sharing lessons learned, participants are eligible for annual technicalconsulting and a focused assessment during the 3-year membership period. The chemistry assessment entailsan expert review of a plants chemistry program and recommendations on how EPRI technology can assist inaddressing plant-specific issues and improving chemistry performance.

Impact

Participation in the Chemistry Technical Strategy Group keeps members abreast of emerging issues in therapidly changing climate surrounding chemistry issues and provides members with a forum for technicalexchange. On-site consulting time provides expert support for specific plant or corporate project requestsfocused on long-term strategic planning.

How to Apply ResultsParticipation in periodic webcasts and meetings keeps members abreast of emerging issues. Annual on-siteconsultation time and the focused chemistry assessment are used to ensure EPRI guidance is applied toemerging and critical plant-specific issues. The annual consultation time is used to address more narrowlyfocused issues, while the full assessment provides a broader programmatic perspective. Both venues provideplant-specific recommendations to maximize plant benefits.


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PWR Secondary Cycle pH Optimization (supplemental) (064149)


Materials corrosion in the condensate, feedwater, and drain systems of pressurized water reactors (PWRs)generates a significant amount of corrosion products in the secondary cycle. Generally, these corrosionproducts are transported into steam generators (SGs) and deposited on tubing surfaces, tubesheets, and tubesupport plates. These corrosion products can act as sites for ionic impurity concentration in restricted areas,leading to corrosion of steam-generator tubing.

Approach

This project will develop a plant-specific corrosion-products mass balance file based on current plant equipment.The mass balance results are evaluated to assess how changes in the type and concentration of amines couldoptimize secondary cycle pH.

Impact

Local pH strongly affects corrosion of several different types, including intergranular attack and stress corrosion

cracking. The right choice of amines and proper operation of a pH control additive will reduce SG fouling anddeposit consideration. Secondary-cycle pH optimization aids in the selection of optimum amines for the plant,thus minimizing corrosion product transfer.


Members receive a detailed report discussing the status of corrosion-product transport and local pHs in thesecondary cycle, along with recommendations and supporting documentation for optimum amine selection.Application of these results will support an optimized feedwater iron control.

PWR Dispersant Application Support (supplemental) (061414)


Steam generator deposits (fouling) can inhibit heat transfer, lead to thermal-hydraulic instabilities throughblockage of tube supports, and create occluded regions where corrosive species can concentrate along tubesand in tube-to-tube support plate crevices. Steam generator performance is compromised not only by formationof an insulating scale, but by the removal of tubes from service due to corrosion.

Dispersant application is a very promising technology for significantly reducing steam generator fouling. Anumber of utilities are pursuing dispersant applications using the PWR Dispersant Application Sourcebook(1015020) and additional plant-specific support as provided through this project. EPRI also can assist inevaluating newer dispersant application technologies. For example, dispersants can be used for increasingcleanup of corrosion products during steam generator wet layup or during long-path recirculation cleanup of thecondensate/feedwater piping prior to power operation.

Approach

This EPRI project will support assessment and application of dispersant for steam generator fouling mitigation.Specific work will be determined in collaboration with the funding utilities, depending on need and plant-specificconcerns. Assessments could involve the following:

Plant-specific materials qualification assessment Chemistry operation and monitoring with dispersant injection (application plan)


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Evaluation of steam generator thermal performance, including a baseline evaluation prior to dispersantinjection and customization of a thermal performance tracking spreadsheet

Preparation of materials needed to support a 10CFR50.59 evaluation

Impact

Successful on-line application of dispersant could reduce steam generator fouling by as much as 50% based onresults from previous plant trials. Other applications during steam generator wet layup and startup could provideadditional benefits.


The products from this project are assessments, site-specific reports, and/or recommendations in support ofapplication at a lead pressurized water reactor (PWR) unit. EPRI works with each funding utility to identify anddeliver what is needed for successful application, within funding constraints.

2011 Products



Dispersant application assessments: Assessments completed based onmember input and needs.

12/22/11TechnicalResource

PWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Group (supplemental) (063963)


To minimize ionic and particulate impurity transport in the reactor coolant and the steam generators, PWRplants employ a wide variety of chemical and volume control systems, condensate polishers, and steamgenerator blowdown demineralizer systems and use different strategies to operate theses systems. The PWRPrimary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Group provides a forum for sharing industry experience thatcan improve and accelerate plant activities to reduce impurity transport.

Approach

The User Group will track operating experience and perform focused studies on specific industry issues.Technology reviews and comparisons of plant practices, for example, will help plants improve reactor coolantsystem cleanup, reduce iron transport to the steam generators, and reduce low-level waste generation. Reviewand benchmarking activities will be performed through annual meetings, with products defined by members. ThePWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Group will function in a manner similar to the BWRCondensate Filter User Group, which was formed in the late 1990s to address problems and optimization issueswith condensate filters.

Impact

This group will identify and improve the application of demineralizers, filters, and membrane technologiesapplied in PWRs by assisting in the evaluation of filter and ion exchange performance and by sharing ofinformation concerning filter design, novel resin use, and other general operating experience.


Application of the practices identified as optimal will be performed at member utilities on an as-needed basis. Akey product target will be development of a demineralizer and filter sourcebook, from which users can referenceindustry best practices.


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PWR Primary Zinc Application User Group (supplemental) (061425)


Many EPRI reports have been published over the years regarding the effectiveness of zinc addition for primary

water stress corrosion cracking mitigation (for both initiation and crack growth rate), including the developmentof PWR Zinc Application Guidelinesin 2006. However, there remains a strong need for plant personnel toexchange information first-hand and provide focused input on future research activities.

Approach

At each user group meeting, members provide an update on their plant or utility's zinc injection program status.These updates address all aspects of a zinc injection program, including planning, implementation, scheduling,and long-term strategy. The user group members also receive updates related to pressurized water reactor(PWR) reactor coolant system zinc addition.

Impact

The Zinc User Group provides a forum for members to benchmark new and existing zinc injection programsthroughout the industry. Sharing of lessons learned and annual updates related to EPRI research programs

associated with zinc addition will provide utilities with valuable information to guide planning andimplementation.


The plant experiences and challenges shared through the Zinc User Group provide learning opportunities for theentire industry. Plant personnel are able to bring these lessons learned back to their plants for implementationfor further analysis.

BWR Cycle Chemistry Evaluation (supplemental)


Plant chemistry programs are instrumental in maintaining nuclear plant reliability and availability. In-depthtechnical reviews of a boiling water reactor's (BWR's) cycle chemistry can provide specific recommendationsaimed at optimizing chemistry control, enhancing plant operations, mitigating stress corrosion cracking, ensuringfuel reliability, and reducing radiation exposure and radioactive waste generation.

Approach

This project will assist plant operators in optimizing BWR chemistry. Plant-specific evaluations of the mostrecent operating cycle will be evaluated and recommendations will be made to support enhanced plantoperation.

Impact

Improved plant operation and cycle chemistry control Reduced costs for chemicals, additives, and other consumables Reduced stress corrosion cracking of susceptible components Lower radiation dose and radioactive waste Improved fuel performance


By applying the detailed report recommendations, plant operators can maximize plant performance and aid inextending plant life. Recommendations may include optimization of condensate treatment and reactor watercleanup systems, additive chemistries (such as zinc addition, hydrogen addition, and/or noble metal addition),and improvements in chemistry sampling and analysis programs.


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BWR Startup Hydrogen Injection Evaluation (supplemental)


All U.S. boiling water reactors (BWRs) are currently injecting hydrogen to mitigate stress corrosion cracking ofsusceptible components. However, hydrogen injection is typically not injected until the plant is at 5% power ormore. Earlier injection of hydrogen, specifically at plant startup until typical feedwater hydrogen injection can beinitiated, could provide additional mitigation value. Utilities interested in this technology may need support inimplementing this technology.

Approach

This project will assist plant operators in identifying preferred locations for early hydrogen injection during BWRstartup as well as support initial planning efforts for possible plant modifications to accommodate the injectionprocess.

Impact

Early identification of physical plant constraints Shorter lead times for system implementation Improved project scoping and accuracy Tighter budget and schedule control


Plant-specific recommendations as documented in the final report will detail how early hydrogen injection can beoptimized at the plant.

BWR Feedwater Iron Optimization Support (supplemental) (062736)

Key Research QuestionThe BWR Water Chemistry Guidelinesrecommend feedwater iron concentration in the range of 0.1-1.0 ppb forplants operating with zinc addition and reducing chemistry conditions (hydrogen water chemistry as well asnoble metal application technologies). Operation in the range of 0.1-0.5 ppb is further encouraged to reduce theamount of zinc needed for dose rate control purposes. While many plants have been able to achieve theseconditions, plants with non-optimized condensate filtration/demineralizer systems may need additional supportto reduce feedwater iron inputs to these recommended levels.

Approach

This project supports the optimization of feedwater iron by analyzing current operation and performance andproviding recommendations to optimize future performance of the condensate filtration demineralizer system.

Impact

The optimization of feedwater iron input results in enhanced plant operation: Reduced radwaste generation and exposure Improved fuel performance and reliability Optimized stress corrosion cracking mitigation technologies (such as hydrogen addition and noble metal

injection)


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This project provides direct consultations with plant staff and a final electronic report detailing the project workand recommendations. Implementation of the report recommendations regarding precoat usage and dosage onsepta will be detailed. Application of these results will support optimized feedwater iron control.

BWR Condensate Filter User Group (supplemental) (006388)


While nuclear industry experience with condensate filtration is extensive, the variety of septa types, precoatmaterials, vessel designs, backwash, and precoating methods present application challenges. Open dialogueamong users to share experiences can drive excellence in performance, especially with the ever-increasingemphasis on water chemistry limits and impacts on fuel performance, stress corrosion cracking mitigation, andradwaste and exposure reduction.

Approach

The BWR Condensate Filter User Group supports optimization of water chemistry filtration technologies to

control important chemistry parameters. Through annual User Group conferences, electronic reports,newsletters, and industry alerts, members gain access to industry experience that can be tailored to individualplant applications. A database of operational and technical information is maintained to address condensatefilter system challenges.

Impact

This User Group has been successfully supporting the nuclear industry for more than 10 years. The database ofoperational and technical information provides extensive insight into the understanding of condensate filtersystem challenges. Lessons learned and implemented from the User Group results in reduced radwaste andworker exposure, optimized fuel performance, and enhanced overall plant operation.


Members of the BWR Condensate Filter User Group apply the experience of other member's situations to theirown utility. Special studies also are made available on a plant-specific basis and shared with the membershipgroup.

BWR Zinc User Group (supplemental)


Many Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) reports have been published over the years regarding plantexperience with zinc injection on drywell shutdown radiation dose rates and laboratory investigations on zinceffectiveness for intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) mitigation for sensitized Alloy 600, 304stainless steel, and Alloy 182 weld metal. However, given the need to balance the chemistry and radiationbenefits of zinc with fuel concerns regarding tenacious crud deposits and the potential effects of crud/oxide

spallation, there remains a strong need for plant personnel to exchange information first-hand and providefocused input on future research activities. These activities can be supported through a BWR Zinc User Group.

Approach

The BWR Zinc User Group will enable participants to update peers on plant/utility zinc injection programs.Updates will address all aspects of the zinc program, including planning, implementation, scheduling, and long-term strategy. User Group members will receive updates related to radiation field control, reactor water andfeedwater zinc data trends, reactor water Co-60(s)/Zn(s) ratio control, Co-60 trends, and effectiveness of Zninjection following noble metal applications and reactor recirculation piping chemical decontaminations.


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Impact

The BWR Zinc Users Group will provide a forum for utilities to benchmark zinc injection programs throughoutthe industry. Sharing of lessons learned and annual updates related to EPRI research programs associatedwith zinc addition will provide utilities with valuable information to guide planning and implementation.


The EPRI BWR Zinc User Group will provide members with access to industry data relevant to zinc injection,data correlations, an annual User Group meeting to share and benchmark plant experiences related to zincinjection, and discussion of EPRI zinc-related projects and work prioritization.

2011_41-09-03

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