Sentences with phrase «fuel rods became»

Fuel rods became exposed and began to melt, while generating large amounts of hydrogen from the rapid oxidation of zirconium contained in the cladding surrounding the nuclear fuel.

In an environment where so many neutrons are absorbed the moderator around the fuel rods becomes important.

Not exact matches

If the pool leaks or the cooling system breaks, as happened in Japan, the nuclear fuel rods could become exposed and release radioactive gas.

During a nuclear meltdown, uranium dioxide fuel, fuel rod components and even the reactor become superheated — as much as 3,600 degrees Fahrenheit — and melt together to form corium, which can eat through containment systems.

Equally, the event became a lightning rod for environmental groups who attempted to depict the panel discussion as a trade show for fossil fuel industries.