A Probabilistic Approach to Quantifying Uncertainties in the In-vessel Steam Explosion During Severe Accidents at a Nuclear Power Plant

The uncertainty analysis for the in-vessel steam explosion during severe accidents at a nuclear power plant is performed using a probabilistic approach. This approach consists of four steps; 1) screening, 2) quantification of uncertainty 3) propagation of uncertainty, and 4) output analysis. And the specific methods which satisfy the sub-objectives of each step are prepared and presented. Compared with existing ones, the unique feature of this approach is the improved estimation of uncertainties through quantification, which ensures the defensibility of the resultant failure probability distributions. Using the approach, the containment failure probability due to in-vessel steam explosion is calculated. The results of analysis show that 1) pour diameter is the most dominant factor and slug condensed phase fraction is the least and 2) fraction of core molten is the second most dominant factor, which is identified as distinct feature of this study as compared with previous studies.