Global Materials Research as a Tool for Future Code Development Available to Purchase

Tools for design and operation of power plants underwent considerable improvements over the past. This is on the one hand a result of the development of powerful computers and related finite-element codes, but on the other hand also a result of significant improvements in materials mechanics and understanding of materials properties. Making such improvements available for implementation into design codes needs often extended R&D projects which happen more and more on an international level. The Generation IV International Forum (GIF) for advanced nuclear plants can be considered as a very good example in this respect. Although this has been recognized by different stakeholders involved in design and operation of nuclear plants, substantial international interaction and collaboration is still not in place. Implementation of international research projects could help to establish a sound scientific basis for materials properties and materials degradation necessary to meet the challenges of current and future nuclear plants. It is the aim of this paper to highlight topics which could be considered for international collaboration of the standards development organizations for the benefit of all participants. The paper discusses possible materials research themes related to future codes which appear to be appropriate for international collaboration.