Study on Silicon Leaching Behavior for Nuclear Power Plants

The phenomenon of elevated silicon content in borated water in the primary loop and related systems of pressurized water reactor nuclear power plants is somewhat common. This study analyzes the leaching factors of glass fiber filter elements widely used in nuclear power plants. The results reveal that glass fiber filter elements are one of the stable silicon sources in the primary loop of nuclear power plants. Within the experimental range, the leaching amount of silicon is relatively large at high temperatures and high pH (alkaline or weakly alkaline) conditions, and the trend of decreasing leaching amount is relatively slow. Meanwhile, the presence of boric acid in the primary loop of nuclear power plants is also an important factor affecting silicon leaching, and low boron levels can increase silicon dissolution.