LAUSR

The main aim of this study was to investigate the structural response of a nuclear containment structure subjected to internal overpressure and higher temperature; these conditions, which occur beyond the design basis, can be caused by accidents (such as Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA)) in a nuclear power plant. To forecast the structural response of a nuclear containment structure under internal overpressure and high-temperature loading conditions, a non-linear analysis was conducted with the finite element analysis software SAP 2000. More specifically, the layered shell elements in SAP 2000 were used for the 3D finite-element modelling of the reinforced-concrete nuclear containment structure. The layered shell elements represent the non-linear behaviour of the concrete and steel, while the reinforcement was modelled with two layers in circumferential and meridional directions. The structural behaviour of the reinforced-concrete containment structure subjected to various loadings (internal overpressure and high-temperature) is presented in terms of maximum leakage rate, the displacement and stress concentration in the containment structure. According to the results, the reinforced-concrete nuclear containment experiences a safety failure at 1.2 Db (Db: design basis internal pressure and temperature) and structural failure at 1.22 Db.