Comparison of IAEA TECDOC 717 Technical Basis with Consensus Codes and Standards

Abstract

The original IAEA TECDOC 717 prepared at the consensus Consultants Service Meetings contained specific guidance with respect to the application of linear–elastic fracture mechanics principles to the evaluation of potential non-ductile failure for radioactive material shipping package containment boundaries. No specific guidance was provided with respect to elastic–plastic fracture mechanics procedures, due to a lack of consensus. This paper proposes that the inclusion of three alternative elastic–plastic evaluation approaches may provide the basis for consensus guidance to be added to a revised TECDOC. These three alternatives have been incorporated into consensus ASME Code non-mandatory appendices, and are widely accepted in combination. One of the three alternatives, an applied J-integral/crack resistance curve approach, is examined in some detail.