Development of a Multi-technique Characterization Portfolio for Stainless Steels Exposed to Magnox Reprocessing Liquors.

AISI Type 304 stainless steel coupons have been exposed to a simulant aqueous environment representative of the Magnox Reprocessing Plant (MRP) at Sellafield, UK. The experiments were performed for extended time periods (up to 420 days) at elevated temperatures to develop a comprehensive understanding of the extent, nature, and depth of contamination for pipework and vessels in Magnox spent nuclear fuel reprocessing environments. This will inform upcoming decommissioning work which represents a major post-operational challenge.