A system for non-destructive inspection of spent nuclear fuel storage canisters

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a system comprising: (a) an experimentation cask having a receiving compartment defining an internal portion of the experimentation cask, wherein the receiving compartment is configured to receive a canister, wherein the canister is a vertical and / or horizontal spent fuel storage canister, (b) one or more sensing devices configured to non-destructively evaluate an internal and / or external state of the canister; wherein the one or more sensing devices are positioned within at least a portion of the internal portion of the experimentation cask, or at least a portion of an external portion of the experimentation cask; and wherein the experimentation cask provides radiation- and heat shielded. Also disclosed herein are methods for inspection of an internal and external integrity of the canister using the systems disclosed herein.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 A SYSTEM FOR NON-DESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION OF SPENT NUCLEAR FUEL STORAGE CANISTERS CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U. S. Provisional Application No.63 / 722,340, filed on November 19, 2024, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.STATEMENT OF GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

[0002] This invention was made with government support under Grant No.31310020M0003, awarded by the U. S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and under Grant No. DE-NE0009171, awarded by the U. S. Department of Energy. The government has certain rights in the invention.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] This application generally relates to systems for non-destructive inspection and evaluation of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) storage canisters. The application also relates to methods for monitoring and inspection of such canisters.BACKGROUND

[0004] Each year, nuclear power plants (NPPs) produce over ten thousand tons of SNF globally, posing a significant challenge for waste management. In the United States, the Department of Energy (DOE) is responsible for managing this high-level radioactive waste. To do so safely, the SNF is being temporarily stored in sealed canisters until long-term storage facilities become available. However, abnormalities may occur during the extended interim storage. Similariy, safety evaluations may be needed prior to and after transportation. For example, the fuel assemblies (FAs) inside these packages may become damaged during storage or accidentai events during transportation. Besides, stress corrosion cracking (SCC), residual water, impurity gases, and abnormal temperature and pressure are also identified as potential sources of damage in an SNF canister. Detecting these abnormalities necessitates the development of non-destructive evaluation (NDE) methods for SNF canisters.Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164

[0005] Thus, new systems and methods are needed that allow for non¬ destructive evaluation of SNF canisters. This disclosure at least partially addresses these and other needs.SUMMARY

[0006] Disclosed herein is a system comprising: (a) an experimentation cask having a receiving compartment defining an internal portion of the experimentation cask, wherein the receiving compartment is configured to receive a canister, wherein the canister is a vertical and / or horizontal spent fuel storage canister, (b) one or more sensing devices configured to non-destructively evaluate an internal and / or external state of the canister; wherein the one or more sensing devices are positioned within at least a portion of the internal portion of the experimentation cask, or at at least a portion of an external portion of the experimentation cask; and wherein the inspected canister is radiation- and thermally shielded by the experimentation cask.

[0007] Still further disclosed herein is a method for inspection of a vertical and / or horizontal SNF storage canister comprising: (a) positioning the canister within any of the disclosed herein systems; (b) collecting data from the one or more sensing devices and the one or more detectors if present; (c) analyzing the data with the controller to determine an internal and external integrity of the canister.

[0008] In accordance with the purposes of the disclosed materials, compounds, compositions, and methods, as embodied and broadly described herein, the disclosed subject matter, in one aspect, relates to compounds and compositions and methods for preparing and using such compounds and compositions.

[0009] Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the description that follows and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of the aspects described below. The advantages described below will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive.Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0010] The accompanying figures, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects described below.

[0011] FIGURE 1 depicts an exemplary system according to one aspect.

[0012] FIGURE 2 depicts an exemplary system according to another aspect.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] The materials, compounds, compositions, articles, and methods described herein may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of specific aspects of the disclosed subject matter, and the examples included therein.

[0014] Before the present materials, compounds, compositions, kits, and methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the aspects described below are not limited to specific synthetic methods or specific reagents, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0015] Also, throughout this specification, various publications are referenced. The disclosures of these publications in their entirety are hereby incorporated by reference into this appiication in order to more fully describe the state of the art to which the disclosed matter pertains. The references disclosed are also individually and specifically incorporated by reference herein for the material contained in them that is discussed in the sentence in which the reference is relied upon.DEFINITIONS

[0016] In this specification and in the claims that follow, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings:

[0017] As used herein, the terms "optional" or "optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance can or cannot occur and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164

[0018] It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate aspects, can also be provided in combination in a single aspect. Conversely, various features of the disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single aspect, can also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[0019] As used in the description and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0020] It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and in the claims, the term "comprising" can include the aspects "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of." Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. In this specification and in the claims which follow, reference will be made to a number of terms that shall be defined herein.

[0021] For the terms "for example” and "such as" and grammatical equivalences thereof, the phrase "and without limitation" is understood to follow unless explicitly stated otherwise. It is further understood that these phrases are used for explanatory purposes only. It is further understood that the term "exemplary," as used herein, means "an example of" and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal aspect.

[0022] The term "or” means "and / or." Recitation of ranges of values is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. The endpoints of all ranges are included within the range and independently combinable. All methods described herein can be performed in a suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0023] All disclosed values also include values that fall within ±10% variation from the disclosed value unless otherwise indicated or inferred. In other words, if a range of 1 to 10 is disclosed, then a range of about 1 to about 10 is disclosed. InAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 such aspects, it is understood that the amount or value in question can be the exact value or a value that provides equivalent results or effects as recited in the claims or taught herein. That is, amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics include both exact values but also approximate, larger, or smaller values as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement error, and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art such that equivalent results or effects are obtained. In some circumstances, the value that provides equivalent results or effects cannot be reasonably determined. In general, an amount, size, formulation, parameter, or other quantity or characteristic is "about," "approximate,” or "at or about," whether or not expressly stated to be such. Where "about," "approximate," or "at or about” is used before a quantitative value, the parameter also includes the specific quantitative value itself unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0024] As used herein, the term or phrase "effective," "effective amount," or "conditions effective to" refers to such amount or condition that is capable of performing the function or property for which an effective amount or condition is expressed. As will be pointed out below, the exact amount or particular condition required will vary from one aspect to another, depending on recognized variables such as the materials employed and the processing conditions observed. Thus, it is not always possible to specify an exact "effective amount" or "condition effective to." However, it should be understood that an appropriate, effective amount will be readily determined by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0025] When a range is expressed, a further aspect includes from the one particular value and to the other particular value. For example, where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure, e.g., the phrase "x to y" includes the range from 'x' to 'y' as well as the range greater than 'x' and less than 'y'. The range can also be expressed as an upper limit, e.g., 'x, y, z, or less' and should be interpreted to include the specific ranges of 'x,' 'y,' 'z,' 'about x,' 'about y,' and 'about z' as well as the ranges of 'less than x,' 'less than y, or 'less than z,' or 'less than about x,' 'less than about y, and 'less than about z.' Likewise, the phrase ' x, y, z, or greater' should be interpreted to include the specific ranges of 'x,' 'y,' 'z,' 'about x,' 'about y,' and 'about z' as well as the ranges of 'greater than x,' greater than y,'Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 'greater than z,' or 'greater than about x,' greater than about y,' 'greater than about z.' In addition, the phrase " 'x' to 'y'," where 'x' and 'y' are numerical values, also includes "about 'x' to about 'y'."

[0026] Such a range format is used for convenience and brevity and, thus, should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. To illustrate, a numerical range of " 0.1% to 5%" should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values of 0.1% to 5% but also include individual values (e.g., 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%) and the sub-ranges (e.g., 0.5% to 1.1%; 5% to 2.4%; 0.5% to 3.2%, and 0.5% to 4.4%, and other possible sub-ranges) within the indicated range.

[0027] Recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value recited or falling within the range unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited. Ranges provided herein are understood to be shorthand for all of the values within the range. For example, a range of 1 to 50 is understood to include any number, or combination of numbers, from the group consisting of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 or sub-ranges from the group consisting of 10-40, 20-50, 5-35, etc. Similarly, numerical ranges recited herein by endpoints include subranges subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1-1.5, 1.5-2, 2-2.75, 2.75-3, 3-3.90, 3.90-4, 4-4.24, 4.24-5, 2-5, 3-5, 1-4, and 2-4).

[0028] As used herein, the term "composition" is intended to encompass a product comprising the specified ingredients in the specified amounts, as well as any product that results, directly or indirectly, from a combination of the specified ingredients in the specified amounts.

[0029] It will be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component,Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

[0030] As used herein, the term "substantially" means that the subsequently described event or circumstance completely occurs or that the subsequently described event or circumstance generally, typically, or approximately occurs.

[0031] Still further, the term "substantially" can, in some aspects, refer to at least about 80 %, at least about 85 %, at least about 90 %, at least about 91 %, at least about 92 %, at least about 93 %, at least about 94 %, at least about 95 %, at least about 96 %, at least about 97 %, at least about 98 %, at least about 99 %, or about 100 % of the stated property, component, composition, or other condition for which substantially is used to characterize or otherwise quantify an amount. It is understood that this definition also includes the ranges when no word "about" is present.

[0032] In other aspects, as used herein, the term "substantially free," when used in the context of a composition or component of a composition that is substantially absent, is intended to refer to an amount that is then about 1 % by weight, e.g., less than about 0.5 % by weight, less than about 0.1 % by weight, less than about 0.05 % by weight, or less than about 0.01 % by weight of the stated material, based on the total weight of the composition or based on any other calculations as disclosed. It is understood that this definition also includes the ranges when no word "about" is present.

[0033] As used herein, the term "substantially," in, for example, the context "substantially identical" or "substantially similar," refers to a method or a system, or a component that is at least about 90%, at least about 91%, at least about 92%, at least about 93%, at least about 94%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or about 100% by similar to the method, system, or the component it is compared to. It is understood that this definition also includes the ranges when no word "about" is present.

[0034] As used herein, the terms "substantially identical reference composition" and "substantially identical reference article" refer toa reference composition or article comprising substantially identical components inAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 the absence of an inventive component. In another exemplary aspect, the term "substantially," in, for example, the context"substantially identical reference composition" or "substantially identical reference article," refers to a reference composition or an article comprising substantially identical components, and wherein an inventive component is absent or is substituted with a common in the art component.

[0035] While aspects of the present invention can be described and claimed in a particular statutory class, such as the system statutory class, this is for convenience only, and one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that each aspect of the present invention can be described and claimed in any statutory class. Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method or aspect set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not specifically state in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way intended that an order be inferred in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including matters of logic with respect to the arrangement of steps or operational flow, plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation, or the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

[0036] The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of various aspects of the invention and the examples included therein, and to the Figures and their previous and following description.SYSTEMS

[0037] Annually, the United States accumulates approximately 2,200 metric tons of SNF. By 2018, nearly 30,000 metric tons were stored in about 3,000 dry cask storage systems (DCSSs) across 75 storage sites nationwide. Projections for 2067 estimate that almost 136,000 metric tons of SNF will be housed in around 10,000 DCSSs. Additionally, on a global scale, the demand for DCSSs is expected to increase significantly, with an estimated 450,000 metric tons of SNF projected to be in storage by 2035. The demand for efficient SNF canister inspections is, therefore, substantial on a national and global scale. Each canister ideally requires a minimum of two inspections conducted before and after transportation. SeveralAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 additional inspections may be conducted before temporary storage, during temporary storage, before permanent disposal, etc., to gain more confidence about the integrity of the SNF.

[0038] The systems described herein directly address this critical need and provide an efficient solution for managing this high volume of canister inspections. The disclosed systems allow the detection of possible internal damage from the exterior surface of SNF canisters without the need to open the sealed packages. The systems described herein can be used as test platforms for conducting fast, multimodal, non-destructive testing (NDT) in real-world field-testing environments due to their capacity to accommodate various NDT sensors.

[0039] The spent nuclear fuel canisters are cylindricai structures made of stainless steel. The main components are the canister wall, the fuel basket, fuel assemblies (FAs), the lid, and the bottom plate. Different abnormalities may occur on the surface of or inside SNF canisters with small probabilities, such as stress corrosion cracking (SCC), interior structural damage, residual water, impurity gases, and abnormal temperature and pressure. Detecting these abnormalities necessitates the development of NDT methods for SNF canisters. The initiation of SCC requires three factors: tensile stress, a corrosive environment, and material susceptibility. The SCC has been identified as a potential threat to the integrity and durability of SNF canisters because these three factors can coexist.

[0040] The canisters are fabricated by welding stainless steel plates in both the longitudinal and circumferential directions. The welding process introduces residual tensile stresses at the weld joints and adjacent heat-affected zones (HAZ) that can create a prime condition for the initiation of SCC. Second, the corrosive environment is provided by the environmental conditions of the storage sites. Many interim storage facilities for SNF canisters are located in coastal zones, and thus, canisters are exposed to chloride ions from the salt-laden air. Such exposure deposits salts on the canister surface, providing a corrosive environment that can compromise the canister materials. Despite the high durability and corrosion resistance provided by the stainless steel, the SNF canisters are not immune to corrosion. The chloride ions can damage and penetrate the passive film on stainless steel, initiating corrosion in the form of pitting. As a result, pitting corrosionAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 is a precursor to SCC and provides sites for crack initiation. Therefore, SCC needs to be detected in the early stages to guarantee the leak-tightness of SNF canisters.

[0041] The contents of an SNF canister, including the FAs and fuel basket, may be damaged during FA loading, transportation events, and the extended interim storage period. For instance, the FAs may be mishandled when loading from the SNF pool to the canisters. This can lead to missing or misplaced FAs, as well as potential structural damage, such as bent fuel rods or fuel baskets. The canisters may be dropped or tip over while being lifted. Additionally, the interior package may be damaged during a transportation accident. Such impacts can cause potential deformation or even collapse of the FAs inside the canister.Additionally, the FAs and fuel basket may degrade due to corrosion and temperature effects, which can lead to potential damage or failure of the interior package during the long-term storage period. Additionally, natural disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis, can also damage the canister and compromise the structural integrity of the package contents. Therefore, the conditions of interior structures, such as fuel baskets and FAs, must be assessed before and after significant events in the canister's lifetime, including loading, storage, transportation, and disposal.

[0042] Water is introduced into the canister during the loading of SNF inside the SNF pool. The vacuum drying process is intended to remove all the water from within the canister. However, residual water may persist within SNF canisters due to incomplete vacuum drying. Over time, this residual water may accelerate the corrosion of the canister material, compromising its structural integrity. Therefore, detecting residual water is essential for ensuring the safety of SNF canisters.

[0043] After vacuum drying, SNF canisters are backfilled with helium to create an inert gas environment and improve heat conductivity. Nevertheless, impurity gases may be present in the canister due to several factors. First, ambient air can enter the canister interior if SCC-induced cracks extend deep through the canister wall. Second, fission gases such as xenon (Xe) may be released from the fuel if the fuel cladding is compromised. Additionally, insufficient vacuum drying can lead to the presence of water vapor within the canister. Hence, detecting impurity gases within the helium environment can serve as an indicator of the health of SNF canisters.Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164

[0044] Abnormal temperature and pressure profiles can result from a combination of the abnormalities. Each of these abnormalities disrupts a canister’s ability to maintain a stable environment for the SNF. Specifically, leakage and the presence of impurity gases can compromise the heat dissipation of helium from the SNF, thereby altering the pressure within the canisters. Any damage to the interior structure directly impacts the internal temperature distribution of the SNF.Furthermore, blockage of the venting port on the concrete cask also results in an abnormal temperature profile in the canister due to compromised natural ventilation. Therefore, the detection of abnormalities in the temperature and pressure profiles of SNF canisters could provide an additional indicator for ensuring the long-term safety and integrity of these storage systems.

[0045] All these abnormalities can be detected by using the systems disclosed herein by incorporating proper NDT instrumentation into the experimentation cask.

[0046] More specifically, in certain aspects, disclosed herein a system comprising: (a) an experimentation cask having a receiving compartment defining an internal portion of the experimentation cask, wherein the receiving compartment is configured to receive a canister, wherein the canister is a vertical and / or horizontal SNF storage canister, (b) one or more sensing devices configured to non-destructively evaluate an internal and / or external state of the canister; wherein the one or more sensing devices are positioned within at least a portion of the internal portion of the experimentation cask, or at at least a portion of an external portion of the experimentation cask; and wherein the experimentation cask provides radiation- and heat shielding.

[0047] It is understood that the experimentation cask can accommodate either a vertical or horizontal canister. In still further aspects, the orientation of the experimentation cask can be easily reconfigured either from the horizontal to vertical orientation or from the vertical to horizontal orientation to align with the orientation of the inspected canister.

[0048] it is understood that the experimentation cask is defined by a wall of a predetermined thickness. The thickness of the wall and the specific materials used to form the experimentation cask can be determined by the desired application. In certain aspects, the experimentation cask is made of concrete. Yet, in otherAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 aspects, the experimentation cask can be made of a metal, metal alloys,, concrete, or a combination thereof.

[0049] In still further aspects, the system can comprise one or more transferring elements configured to transfer the canister into the experimentation cask. For example, the system can comprise movable elements that allow the transfer of the canister from one position to another.

[0050] In certain aspects, the canister is moved in a transfer cask. In such aspects, the system is configured to receive a transfer cask comprising the canister such that the canister is reversibly transferred from the transfer cask into the experimentation cask and back. In certain aspects, the canister can be moved from a storage cask into a transfer cask and then from the transfer cask into the experimentation cask. When the inspection is complete, the canister is moved back into the transfer cask and removed to an appropriate location.

[0051] In still further aspects, the one or more sensors are positioned to allow an effective contact with the canister when the canister is inserted into the experimentation cask. In such aspects, the effective contact with a canister wall can be, for example, an intimate contact. Yet, in other aspects, the effective contact with the canister wall means that there is no intimate contact, but the non-contact sensing device is positioned such that it can scan the desired property either within the canister or on the canister's external surface.

[0052] In still further aspects, whether one or more sensors are positioned on the experimentation cask wall facing the receiving compartment (internal portion of the experimentation cask) or positioned on an external wall of the experimentation cask, such that the one or more sensors or sensing devices are configured to have an adjustable position along a y-direction, e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the experimentation cask. Yet in other aspects, the one or more sensing devices can be adjusted in the circumferential direction, e.g., it can be moved circumferentially around the receiving compartment to the desired location.

[0053] In still further aspects, the system can also comprise one or more detectors that can be coupled with the one or more sensing devices. In yet still further aspects, the sensing devices can be signal generating devices. In such aspects, the sensing device can generate the desired signal that can then beAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 detected by the one or more detectors. In still further aspects, the one or more detectors can collect and / or analyze data from the one or more sensing devices.

[0054] In certain aspects, the experimentation cask can further comprise a platform (or a testbed) positioned within the receiving compartment such that the received canister is positioned upon it. In certain aspects, the platform is movable, it is understood that the platform can move in the y and / or x direction as desired. In certain aspects, the one or more sensing devices can be positioned on the platform or under the platform. In certain aspects, the platform can further comprise additional elements that can control platform positioning, or the positioning of the canister on the platform, or the working mechanism of the sensing devices that are positioned on or vicinity of the platform itself. In certain aspects, for example, the platform can comprise a least one modal shaker. In such aspects, the modal shaker can be incorporated within the platform or can be coupled with the platform by any known methods.

[0055] In certain aspects, the one or more sensing devices can comprise an acoustic sensing device, an ultrasonic sensing device, a temperature sensing device, a pressure sensing device, accelerometers, a D-T neutron generator, a vibration sensing device (e.g., Doppler vibrometer), a fiber optic sensor, X-ray CT, a spectrometer, or any combination thereof.

[0056] In still further aspects, the platform can comprise multiple accelerometers. It is understood that such accelerometers can be positioned anywhere on the platform or below or on the canister as long as the desired signals are received by the detectors and controllers.

[0057] In still further aspects, the experimentation cask comprises one or more holding elements configured to hold the canister at a predetermined position within the receiving compartment. It is understood that the canister does not have to be fully inserted into the experimentation cask, it can be held in any position within the experimentation cask, depending on the desired application.

[0058] In still further aspects, the system can further comprise a controller and / or wired or wireless transmitter, it is understood that in such aspects, the controller is configured to receive and analyze the data from the one or more sensing devices and / or one or more detectors if present. In still further aspects, theAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 controller Is configured to provide information to an operator based on collected data, dynamic modal technology, machine learning, or any combination thereof. It is further understood that the controller itself can be wired or wireless. In yet another aspect, the controller can be or can be connected to a handheld device, such as a laptop, tablet, phone, watch, or the like.METHODS

[0059] Also disclosed are methods for inspection of a vertical and / or horizontal spent fuel storage canister comprising: (a) positioning the canister within the disclosed above systems; (b) collecting data from the one or more sensing devices and the one or more detectors if present; (c) analyzing the data with the controller to determine an internal and external integrity of the canister.

[0060] It is understood that the inspection can be performed at any stage of the canister's life. For example, the inspection can be performed before, during or after canister storage; transportation; transfer, or any combination thereof.

[0061] In certain aspects, the inspection includes measuring a gas purity within the canister. Yet, in some aspects, the inspection can be done to evaluate internal reconfiguration of contents or damage. Yet in still some aspects, the internal package integrity can be evaluated. Still, in some aspects, confinement boundaries can also be evaluated for cracks, traces of corrosion, etc.EXAMPLES

[0062] The following examples are set forth below to illustrate the methods and results according to the disclosed subject matter. These examples are not intended to be inclusive of all aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein but rather to illustrate representative methods and results. These examples are not intended to exclude equivalents and variations of the present invention, which are apparent to one skilled in the art.

[0063] Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers (e.g., amounts, temperature, etc.), but some errors and deviations should be accounted for. Unless indicated otherwise, parts are parts by weight, the temperature is in °C or is at ambient temperature, and pressure is at or near atmospheric. There are numerous variations and combinations of reaction conditions, e.g., component concentrations, temperatures, pressures, and otherAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 reaction ranges and conditions, which can be used to optimize the product purity and yield obtained from the described process. Only reasonable and routine experimentation will be required to optimize such process conditions.EXAMPLE 1

[0064] An exemplary system 100 is shown in FIG. 1. The experimentation cask 102 is configured to receive the SNF storage canister 104. In certain examples, the canister 104 is transferred from the transfer cask 202 into the experimentation cask. The experimentation cask can comprise a plurality of sensing devices. For example, some of such devices are shown in inserts A and B. In insert A, a sensing device 302 is attached to an experimentation cask wall 102a that comes into effective contact, for example, with a canister wall 104a.

[0065] The experimentation cask 102 can also comprise platform 402, as shown in insert B. The platform can be coupled with a modal shaker 404 and has a plurality of accelerometers 306. It can also comprise an additional sensing device (that can be chosen from any sensing devices listed above) 304.

[0066] For example, when canister 104 is lowered (for example, under the control of operator 502) into the experimentation cask 102, the canister can be securely rested on brackets 406 inside the cask. The modal shaker 404 is positioned at the bottom (in the vicinity of platform 402, for example) of the experimentation cask. Accelerometers 306 are installed on the platform and are in contact with the canister bottom plate. The amplifier and data acquisition (DAQ) system 410, for example, is operated outside the experimentation cask and connected to the experimentation cask through a shielded cable port 408.

[0067] This type of inspection can be used for modal testing. Modal testing is a technique used to determine the dynamic properties (e.g., the natural frequencies, damping ratios, and modal shapes) of a structure by measuring and analyzing its response to external excitation. This methodology was verified both computationally and experimentally to detect the internal damage in a canister using only measurements collected on the surface of the canister.

[0068] Sensors required for other NDT approaches can also be incorporated into this experimentation cask to increase the number of modalities in the multimodal NDT diagnosis.Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164

[0069] FIG. 2 shows an additional configuration of system 100. Such a system can be used for neutron imaging, for example. In such a case, neutron imaging can be achieved by deploying a deuterium-tritium (D-T) neutron generator 300 and detector arrays 400. The generated source beam either passes through the cask or is reflected toward an array of detectors, thereby enabling the imaging of the internal contents. In such an inspection, for example, missing fuel rods and basket damage can be identified. Data collection can be performed within a few hours to several days, depending on the level of resolution required, and can be focused on specific areas of interest. The deuterium-tritium (D-T) neutron generator 300 and detector arrays 400 can be embedded in the examination cask, which in this case can serve as a tomography unit. As the canister is slid into or removed from the examination cask during retrieval or placement back into a cask, the process may be paused at desired cross-sections to collect imaging data.

[0070] In still further aspects, additional sensing devices can comprise gamma-ray detection devices that would allow identifying missing FAs in the canister.

[0071] Additional sensing devices can comprise fiber optical sensors that operate by detecting alterations in light properties, including intensity and phase, as the light traverses through an optical fiber. These fibers are highly flexible and can be integrated into examination cask. Therefore, when anomalies like canister leakage occur, fiber optic sensors can efficiently detect and pinpoint their location.

[0072] In still other examples, the sensing devices can comprise ultrasonic guided waves (UGW). Ultrasonic-guided waves can propagate over long distances within a structure, allowing for the inspection of large areas from a single access point. Shear horizontal (SH) waves can be used to evaluate the status of the canister. In addition to SH waves, feature-guided waves (FGWs) can be used to detect welding flaws in the canister, or helical-guided ultrasonic waves (HGUW) can be used to inspect for defect localization on the canister’s surface. Additional sensors can comprise piezoelectric wafer active sensors (PWAS) that can be used to excite acoustic-ultrasonic guided waves for monitoring canister damage.

[0073] Some of the sensing devices can comprise laser-based devices. For example, linear elastodynamics gradient imaging technique (LEGOT) and nonlinear resonant ultrasound spectroscopy (NRUS) using a scanning laser DopplerAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 vibrometer (SLDV) can be used to detect cracks, it is understood that other excitation sources can be used. For example, air-coupled transducers (ACT) or piezoelectric transducers (PZTs) can be used in combination with SLDV.

[0074] Further, the sensing devices can comprise acoustic emission devices. They can be used to detect acoustic signals generated during the initiation and propagation of the cracks.

[0075] The sensing devices do not necessarily need to have an intimate contact with the canister’s surface. For example, Eddy current testing (ECT) is a non-contact approach that is applicable to SNF canisters. This method is based on the principles of electromagnetism, where alternating current is passed through a coil to induce eddy currents in the tested material. Variations in these currents indicate potential defects or cracks. Eddy current testing is especially effective for surface and near-surface flaw detection in metallic structures like SNF canisters. An ECT array can be deployed to scan large areas of a canister.

[0076] In certain aspects, the sensing devices can comprise a laser-induced breakdown spectrometer (LIBS) that can be used to detect chloride deposits.

[0077] In other examples, the sensing devices can be based on piezo-optical sensing systems for SNF canisters using fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors.

[0078] To investigate the internal environment of the canister, the sensing device can comprise ultrasonic transducers positioned at various places on the canister. Such sensing devices can detect impurity gases and residual water.

[0079] The sensing devices can further comprise X-ray CT.

[0080] Additionally, vibrothermography can be used to inspect the canister's internal and external integrity. Other sensing devices can include monoenergetic photon sources, surface acoustic wave sensors, and the like.

[0081] In still further examples, the systems can rely on machine learning techniques to evaluate the data.

[0082] Disclosed herein are materials, compounds, compositions, and components that can be used for, can be used in conjunction with, can be used in preparation for, or are products of the disclosed methods and compositions. These and other materials are disclosed herein, and it is understood that whenAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these materials are disclosed, specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these compounds may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein. For example, suppose a composition is disclosed and a number of modifications that can be made to a number of components of the composition are discussed. In that case, each and every combination and permutation that is possible are specifically contemplated unless specifically indicated to the contrary. Thus, if a class of components A, B, and C are disclosed and a class of components D, E, and F and an example of a combination composition A-D are disclosed, then even if each is not individually recited, each is individually and collectively contemplated. Thus, in this example, each of the combinations A-E, A-F, B-D, B-E, B-F, C-D, C-E, and C-F are specifically contemplated and should be considered disclosed from the disclosure of A, B, and C; D, E, and F; and the example combination A-D. Likewise, any subset or combination of these is also specifically contemplated and disclosed. Thus, for example, the sub-group of A-E, B-F, and C-E are specifically contemplated and should be considered disclosed from disclosure of A, B, and C; D, E, and F; and the example combination A-D. This concept applies to all aspects of this disclosure, including, but not limited to, steps in methods of making and using the disclosed compositions. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed, it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific aspect or combination of aspects of the disclosed methods and that each such combination is specifically contemplated and should be considered disclosed.EXEMPLARY ASPECTS

[0083] Example 1. A system comprising: (a) an experimentation cask having a receiving compartment defining an internal portion of the experimentation cask, wherein the receiving compartment is configured to receive a canister, wherein the canister is a vertical and / or horizontal spent fuel storage canister, (b) one or more sensing devices configured to non-destructively evaluate an internal and / or external state of the canister; wherein the one or more sensing devices are positioned within at least a portion of the internal portion of the experimentation cask, or at least aAttorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 portion of an external portion of the experimentation cask; and wherein the inspected canister is radiation- and heat shielded by the experimentation cask.

[0084] Example 2. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Example 1, wherein the system further comprises one or more transferring elements configured to transfer the canister into the experimentation cask.

[0085] Example 3. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Example 1 or 2, wherein the system is configured to receive a transfer cask comprising the canister such that the canister is reversibly transferred from the transfer cask into the experimentation cask and back.

[0086] Example 4. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 1-3, wherein the one or more sensing devices are positioned to allow an effective contact with the canister when the canister is inserted into the experimentation cask.

[0087] Example 5. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 1-4, wherein positioning of the one or more sensing devices is adjustable in along the longitudinal or circumferential directions of the experimentation cask.

[0088] Example 6. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 1-5, wherein the system comprises one or more detectors configured to collect and / or analyze data from the one or more sensing devices.

[0089] Example 7. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 1-6, wherein the experimentation cask further comprises a platform positioned within the receiving compartment such that the received canister is positioned upon it.

[0090] Example 8. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Example 7, wherein the one or more sensing devices are positioned on the platform.

[0091] Example 9. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 7 or 8, wherein the platform comprises at least one modal shaker.Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164

[0092] Example 10. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 1-9, wherein the one more sensing devices comprise an acoustic sensing device, an ultrasonic sensing device, a temperature sensing device, a pressure sensing device, an accelerometer, a D-T neutron generator, a vibration sensing device (e.g., Doppler vibrometer), a fiber optic sensor, X-ray CT, a spectrometer, or any combination thereof.

[0093] Example 11. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 7-10, wherein the platform comprises one or more accelerometers.

[0094] Example 12. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 1-11, wherein the experimentation cask comprises one or more holding elements configured to hold the canister at a predetermined position within the receiving compartment.

[0095] Example 13. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 1-12, wherein the system further comprises a controller.

[0096] Example 14. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Example 13, wherein the controller is configured to receive and analyze the data from the one or more sensing devices and / or one or more detectors if present.

[0097] Example 15. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Example 13 or 14, wherein the controller is configured to provide information to an operator based on collected data, dynamic modal technology, acoustic sensing, machine learning, or any combination thereof.

[0098] Example 16. The system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 1-15, wherein the system comprises the canister.

[0099] Example 17. A method for inspection of a vertical and / or horizontal spent fuel storage canister comprising: (a) positioning the canister within the system of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 1-15; (b) collecting data from the one or more sensing devices and the one or more detectors if present; (c) analyzing the data with the controller to determine an internal and external integrity of the canister.Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164

[0100] Example 18. The method of any one of the examples herein, particularly Example 17, wherein the inspection is performed during canister storage; transportation; transfer, or any combination thereof.

[0101] Example 19. The method of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 17-18, wherein a gas purity is measured within the canister.

[0102] Example 20. The method of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 17-19, wherein an internal fuel assembly damage is evaluated.

[0103] Example 21. The method of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 17-20, wherein internal package integrity is evaluated.

[0104] Example 22. The method of any one of the examples herein, particularly Examples 17-21, wherein confinement boundaries are evaluated.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system comprising:a) an experimentation cask having a receiving compartment defining an internal portion of the experimentation cask, wherein the receiving compartment is configured to receive a canister, wherein the canister is a vertical and / or horizontal spent fuel storage canister,b) one or more sensing devices configured to non-destructively evaluate an internal and / or external state of the canister, wherein the one or more sensing devices are positioned within at least a portion of the internal portion of the experimentation cask or at least a portion of an external portion of the experimentation cask;and wherein the inspected canister is radiation- and heat shielded by the experimentation cask.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises one or more transferring elements configured to transfer the canister into the experimentation cask.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the system is configured to receive a transfer cask comprising the canister such that the canister is reversibly transferred from the transfer cask into the experimentation cask and back.

4. The system of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more sensing devices are positioned to allow an effective contact with the canister when the canister is inserted into the experimentation cask.

5. The system of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the positioning of the one or more sensing devices is adjustable along at least one direction along the wall of the experimentation cask.

6. The system of any one of claims 1 -5, wherein the system comprises one or more detectors configured to collect and / or analyze data from the one or more sensing devices.

7. The system of any one of claims 1 -6, wherein the experimentation cask further comprises a platform positioned within the receiving compartment such that the received canister is positioned upon it.Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the one or more sensing devices are positioned on the platform.

9. The system of any one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the platform comprises at least one modal shaker.

10. The system of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the one more sensing devices comprise an acoustic sensing device, an ultrasonic sensing device, a temperature sensing device, a pressure sensing device, an accelerometer, a D-T neutron generator, a vibration sensing device, a fiber optic sensor, X-ray CT, a spectrometer, or any combination thereof.

11. The system of any one of claims 7-10, wherein the platform comprises a modal shaker and one or more accelerometers.

12. The system of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the experimentation cask comprises one or more holding elements configured to hold the canister at a predetermined position within the receiving compartment.

13. The system of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the system further comprises a controller.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the controller is configured to receive and analyze the data from one or more sensing devices and / or one or more detectors, if present.

15. The system of claim 13 or 14, wherein the controller is configured to provide information to an operator based on collected data, dynamic modal technology, acoustic sensing, machine learning, or any combination thereof.

16. The system of any one of claims 1-15, wherein the system comprises the canister.

17. A method for inspection of a vertical and / or horizontal spent fuel storage canister comprising:a. positioning the canister within the system of any one of claims 1 -15; b. collecting data from the one or more sensing devices and the one or more detectors if present;c. analyzing the data with the controller to determine an internal and external integrity of the canister.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the inspection is performed during canister storage; transportation; transfer, or any combination thereof.Attorney Docket No. 11760-018WO1USC Ref. 2024-164 19. The method of any one of claims 17-18, wherein a gas purity is measured within the canister.

20. The method of any one of claims 17-19, wherein an internal fuel assembly or fuel rod damage is evaluated.

21. The method of any one of claims 17-20, wherein internal package integrity is evaluated.

22. The method of any one of claims 17-21, wherein confinement boundaries are evaluated.

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