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Image: Chernobyl-LWR-comparison

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Description: The critical differences in the RBMK reactor compared to a LWR (Light Water Reactor) that directly contributed to the Chernobyl disaster. 1. The flamable graphite moderator in the reactor core that burned in the fire, 2. The positive void coefficient in the water that made possible the power peak that blew the reactor vessel, 3. The control rods were very slow, they took 18-20 seconds to be inserted into the reactor. Moreover they had graphite tips that actually intensified the fission chain reaction in the beginning of the insertion. 4. No containment building at all.
Title: Chernobyl-LWR-comparison
Credit: self-made, data from IAEA: INSAG-7 The Chernobyl Accident: Updating of INSAG-1. Vienna, 1992; NEA:Chernobyl - Assessment of Radiological and Health Impacts. Pariisi, 2002; Nakao, M.: Chernobyl Accident. University of Tokyo, 2006.
Author: Tungsten
Usage Terms: Public domain
License: Public domain
Attribution Required?: No

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