Overview

Worker in full protective suit performing tasks under a fume hood

Corrosion, fatigue, and hydrogen ingress can all give rise to a change in the properties of materials over time. In nuclear reactors, irradiation damage can also be a problem.

While considerable work is done in advance in order to predict effects, and non-destructive testing is used for ongoing inspections, some things can only be confirmed by extracting the irradiated components and testing them.

Such testing not only requires the capability to machine samples and execute the tests but, as it must be done on activated and contaminated materials, it requires shielding, containment, appropriate operating practices, and approval from the nuclear regulator.

We provide a full-service capability to characterize the mechanical and metallurgical properties of highly radioactive and irradiated materials, such as ex-service irradiated Zr-2.5Nb pressure tubes from CANDU reactors. In addition to the testing, we offer shipping, receiving, waste disposal, material preparation, specimen machining, post-test examination, and interpretation of the results. Our capabilities are further expanded through our partnership with McMaster University.

Why Us?

  • Well Developed Licensed Test Facility

    Our licensed irradiated material test facility has been developed, maintained, and expanded over several decades to serve the nuclear industry’s irradiated material testing needs.

  • Industry Leading Practical Experience

    The professional engineers and highly trained technologists that make up our team have several decades of practical working knowledge on how to handle radioactive materials safely.

  • Commercially Operated "Warm Cells"

    Warm cells are shielded and employ remote handling like hot cells but are designed for handling activated components rather than more radioactive materials like fuels. They are a cost-effective way to provide commercial inspection and test services.

  • Extensive Testing Capabilities

    We perform a variety of mechanical tests on irradiated specimens including tensile, fatigue, and fracture toughness tests. We also test for delayed hydride cracking and overload crack initiation, and measure hydrogen concentration in irradiated pellets.