Water Chemistry

Program Overview

Program Description
Water chemistry conditions at nuclear power plants can impact corrosion rates, fuel performance, and radiation
management. In light of increasing demands on chemistry staff and reductions in the number of staff, nuclear
power plants are challenged to maintain effective water chemistry control. Improved water chemistry can reduce
the frequency of transient fault conditions and overall impurity concentrations. However, continued
improvements are needed to optimize water chemistry and balance the resulting impacts and improvements on
system materials corrosion, fuel performance, and radiation fields.

The Water Chemistry Program develops and updates water chemistry guidelines for nuclear reactors based on
industry research and plant experience. The program also develops water chemistry optimization tools to
mitigate corrosion, achieve and maintain design fuel performance standards, and minimize plant radiation fields.

Research Value
The Water Chemistry Program develops technical guidance that can be incorporated into the day-to-day duties
of nuclear plant chemists. Research results help nuclear plants create strategic water chemistry plans for
maximizing plant availability and cost efficiency in a manner consistent with safety and regulatory requirements.
Water Chemistry Program members gain access to the following:

 Cost-effective chemistry optimization tools and techniques to improve plant availability and safety.
 New chemistry applications through first-of-a-kind technology demonstrations. For example, field
demonstration of a polyacrylic acid dispersant showed a 50% reduction in corrosion product fouling,
increasing steam generator availability.
 Software-enabled improvements in chemistry control, diagnostic capabilities, and staff productivity.
 Enhanced technology transfer through plant-specific collaborations.
 On-site assessment support to benchmark plant chemistry controls and identify opportunities to optimize
chemistry protocols.

Approach
The Water Chemistry Program combines basic and applied research with industry operating experience to
develop guidance and technologies tailored to the needs of the nuclear power industry. The Program provides a
comprehensive suite of water chemistry tools, including guidelines, new operating and monitoring technologies,
chemistry control and assessment software, user groups, and on-site assessments.

 Conduct research to improve the understanding of water chemistry impacts on nuclear plant performance
and related impacts on equipment and systems.
 Develop scientifically and technically based water chemistry guidelines to minimize operational risks to
plant materials, maintain design fuel performance standards, and mitigate plant radiation fields.
 Conduct first-of-a-kind technology demonstrations targeting improved water chemistry control.
 Design and deploy software tools that can accurately and cost-effectively monitor and assess water
chemistry.
Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

Accomplishments
Electric Power Research Institute's (EPRI’s) Water Chemistry Program supports nuclear power industry efforts
to improve water chemistry control and minimize water chemistry impacts on other plant systems and
components. Water chemistry research provides members with the guidance and technologies to improve
operational flexibility, reduce operations and maintenance costs, reduce dose, and reduce material degradation
risks.

 Supported first continuous operational application of a chemical dispersant to reduce sludge

accumulation in steam generators. Dispersant use maximizes tube life and mitigates future power
reduction from loss of heat transfer capability.
 Conducted laboratory testing to confirm the technical feasibility of using chemical dispersants to manage
steam generator deposits during the long-path recirculation cleanup process. Documented a generic
qualification of a lead plant for an initial industry application and prepared a set of recommendations to
guide development of an initial application plan.
 Evaluated the use of septa and precoat media in controlling feedwater iron in boiling water reactors.
Results will provide input to the next revision of the EPRI Condensate Polishing Guidelines.
 Continued collecting water chemistry data through EPRI's Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment project
to benchmark specific water chemistry regimes and optimize plant operation. As of December 2009, the
pressurized water reactor (PWR) database contained 639 cycles of primary and secondary chemistry
data from 67 U.S. and 80 non-U.S. PWR plants. The boiling water reactor (BWR) database includes data
from all 35 U.S. and 11 non-U.S. BWR plants.
 Published first revision of the BWR Shutdown and Startup Chemistry Operating Experience and
Sourcebook. This sourcebook summarizes BWR good practices for controlling corrosion product transport
during shutdowns, particularly refueling outages, and for startup chemistry control to minimize
intergranular stress corrosion cracking.
 Optimized procedures for detecting trace inorganic cations in ultrapure water using capillary
electrophoresis, a method capable of rapid detection of very low concentrations of simple metallic and
non-metal ions.
 Improved chemistry software by incorporating the PWR and BWR Shutdown Chemistry Calculator and
Analyzer into ChemWorks™ Tools; and updated the MULTEQ Database with new and revised species.

Current Year Activities

Water Chemistry Program research and development for 2011 will focus on technology developments and
assessments to continually improve guidance and tools for optimized chemistry control. Specific efforts will
include the following:

 Review the boiling water reactor water chemistry guidelines and the pressurized water reactor secondary
water chemistry guidelines to evaluate gaps related to industry initiatives. Based on review, next revision
of the pressurized water reactor primary water chemistry guidelines may begin.
 Complete a generic safety assessment in support of elevated hydrogen application on the primary side of
a four-loop Westinghouse pressurized water reactor. Coordinate field implementation of an elevated
hydrogen program at a lead plant, with implementation to begin in 2012.
 Revise the pressurized water reactor zinc application guidelines by updating current industry experience,
identifying best practices, developing a long-term zinc injection strategy, and providing guidance for
operational decision making.
 Assess new plant designs and planned operation against the current Water Chemistry Guidelines. This
analysis will form the basis of future activities to define chemistry guidance for new plants.
 Continue development of boiling water and pressurized water reactor monitoring and assessment tools to
benchmark the industry and evaluate chemistry improvement opportunities.
 Begin revision of the condensate polishing guidelines for boiling water and pressurized water reactors.
 Develop recommendations for methods to adjust reactor water chemistry such that reduction of
radioisotope levels can be accomplished during periods of high moisture carryover.

Water Chemistry - Program 41.09.03 p. 2

Electric Power Research Institute
Estimated 2011 Program Funding
$4.0 million
Program Manager
Keith Fruzzetti, 650-855-2211, kfruzzet@epri.com
Summary of Projects
Project Number Project Title
P41.09.03.01 Chemistry Guidelines
(base)
P41.09.03.02 First-of-a-kind Technology
Demonstrations (base)
P41.09.03.03 Software Development
(base)
P41.09.03.15a SMART ChemWorksTM
User Group - Maintenance
and Support
(supplemental)
P41.09.03.15b SMART ChemWorksTM
User Group - New
Installation (supplemental)
P41.09.03.15d ChemWorksTM User Group
(supplemental)
Water Chemistry - Program 41.09.03
2011 Research Portfolio
Description
This program element provides up-to-date guidelines, develops
leading technologies, and performs critical assessments in support of
safe, reliable, and optimized water chemistry operation. The
program’s key products are the Water Chemistry Guidelines, which
are produced in collaboration with the Electric Power Research
Institute (EPRI) issue programs, based on ongoing research and
plant and industry experience.
This project implements new chemistry technologies at a plant site
under controlled and monitored conditions and develops detailed
application guidance for optimized application.
In support of plant chemists, ChemWorks codes provide a consistent
and reliable means for assessing chemistries that could impact
component/asset management strategies.
This project provides support to the 24 current users of SMART
ChemWorks, including two from the BWR fleet. Plant and corporate
personnel have access to the SMART ChemWorks technology
through a web interface, and can monitor plant chemistry on a
continuous basis. An alert system is customized for each plant.
Installation of SMART ChemWorks requires a coordinated effort
between EPRI engineers and plant team members. A one-time on-
site meeting is required between team members to establish project
scope and timelines to ensure a successful implementation plan.
SMART ChemWorks requires that a data transfer tool be installed at
the plant and that access be provided to the EPRI servers, after
which plant personnel will have access to SMART ChemWorks
through a web interface. Additional site-specific customizations are
supported over the first 3 months as the model is developed and
adjusted based on plant information.
The ChemWorks User Group provides several mechanisms for
enhancing the ChemWorks software codes and their application at
nuclear plants. Through industry forums, newsletters, annual
meetings (U.S. and international), and webcast sessions, EPRI
technical staff support utility application of the codes and gain insight
into user experience that can lead to needed software modifications
and improvements.
p. 3
Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

Project Number Project Title Description

P41.09.03.15e Chemistry Technical The Chemistry Technical Strategy Group provides a forum for
Strategy Group members to exchange ideas and lessons learned related to strategic
(supplemental) management of BWR and PWR chemistry programs. The 3-year
membership provides participants with all the benefits of an annual
membership plus a full chemistry assessment once during the 3-year
period. Participation on this basis is at a lower cost than having one
assessment performed and subscribing to the Technical Strategy
Group on an annual basis for 3 years.

P41.09.03.16a PWR Secondary Cycle pH To help utilities minimize corrosion in the secondary cycle, EPRI has
Optimization developed a process to evaluate plant pH optimization programs.
(supplemental) EPRI experts help plant managers evaluate the status of their
corrosion-product transport and local pHs throughout the secondary
cycle. Evaluations include the following:
 A mass balance of corrosion products around the secondary
cycle to determine the corrosion source
 Calculation of amine concentrations and local pH values at major
locations in the secondary cycle using the EPRI Plant Chemistry
Simulator
 Calculation of feedwater iron concentrations
 Estimation of polisher run length as a function of feedwater
amine concentrations
 Economic analysis comparing the use of different potential
amines

P41.09.03.16d PWR Dispersant This project provides plant-specific support for successful dispersant
Application Support application, which can reduce steam generator fouling by as much as
(supplemental) 50% based on plant trials and early results from application at Exelon.

P41.09.03.16e PWR Primary and The PWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Group
Secondary Resins and provides a forum for collecting industry best practices that can be
Filters User Group used by member utilities to optimize operations with regard to
(supplemental) demineralizer and filter performance.

P41.09.03.16f PWR Primary Zinc The PWR Primary Zinc Application User Group provides members
Application User Group access to an annual meeting to update members on technology
(supplemental) developments and to share experiences and best practices. As part
of the Chemistry Monitoring Assessment Program, key parameters
from utilities will be tracked and trended based on cycle performance
in radiation exposure and zinc injection.

Water Chemistry - Program 41.09.03 p. 4

Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

Project Number Project Title Description

P41.09.03.17a BWR Cycle Chemistry This project will assist plant operators in evaluating their cycle
Evaluation (supplemental) chemistry and in developing a roadmap for chemistry improvements
by performing the following:
 Reviewing the technical basis for the site chemistry trending
program using EPRI guidelines and other industry standards
 Reviewing the effectiveness and completeness of chemistry-
related corrective actions taken during previous cycles
 Evaluating and trending chemistry results using EPRI-developed
tools to document behaviors
 Recommending site chemistry program improvements based on
trends and observations
 Conducting on-site walkdowns (as needed) of sample systems to
review effectiveness
 Assessing laboratory operations with respect to communication,
equipment operation and maintenance activities, training, and
implementation of industry lessons learned

P41.09.03.17b BWR Startup Hydrogen This project will assist plant operators in identifying preferred
Injection Evaluation locations for early hydrogen injection during BWR startup as well as
(supplemental) support initial planning efforts for possible plant modifications to
accommodate the injection process. The evaluation team will perform
the following:
 Review plant drawings and documents for injection locations
 Perform a plant walkdown to confirm preferred locations
 Identify plant modifications required for injection tie-ins and
services
 Determine space availability should hydrogen gas cylinders be
used
 Document the results of the evaluation and provide plant-specific
recommendations

P41.09.03.17c BWR Feedwater Iron This project supports efforts to improve the performance assessment
Optimization Support accuracy of individual condensate filtration/demineralizer vessels for
(supplemental) iron optimization. Support at a given plant includes the following:
 Temporary corrosion product sampler setup
 Baseline evaluation of current sampling/analysis program
 Consultation with station personnel for execution of site-specific
sampling program
 Site-specific sampling program and sample analysis (lab analysis
generally performed on-site by site personnel)
 Compilation and evaluation of results
 Site-specific recommendations regarding septa, precoated
material and operating conditions to achieve feedwater iron
control goals (electronic report included)

Water Chemistry - Program 41.09.03 p. 5

Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

Project Number Project Title Description

P41.09.03.17d BWR Condensate Filter Participation in the BWR Condensate Filter User Group provides
User Group access to an annual conference, electronic reports, newsletters, and
(supplemental) industry alerts. Current issues include the following:
 Pleated septa experience and septa quality control
 Septa and precoated materials optimization
 Use of specialty resins for cobalt removal
 Equipment upgrades and related issues and resolutions
 Optimization of iron and soluble species removal
 Control of sulfate releases due to pleated septa age and
attachment hardware failure
 Minimization of radwaste generation

P41.09.03.17f BWR Zinc User Group Zinc injection has become a key technology for minimizing drywell
(supplemental) dose rates under the highly reducing chemistry conditions established
by hydrogen and noble metal water chemistry programs. While more
zinc can be better for dose control, chemistry guidelines limit
feedwater zinc concentrations to control the buildup of tenacious crud
on the fuel cladding. The BWR Zinc User Group enables plants to
accomplish the following:
 Share plant experiences and lessons learned with zinc
application
 Review the BWR chemistry monitoring database for trends and
updates
 Monitor zinc performance results based on available chemistry,
radiation field, and fuel surveillance data
 Communicate issues and improvement plans for active and
passive zinc injection systems
 Identify needed research involving zinc addition

Chemistry Guidelines (base) (052415)

Key Research Question

Improving water chemistry has contributed to a reduction in the frequency of transient fault conditions and an
overall reduction in impurity concentrations. However, continued improvements are sought to optimize water
chemistry and balance the resulting impact on system materials corrosion, fuel performance, and radiation
fields. In addition, advanced technology is needed to improve water chemistry control.

Approach
The program’s key products are the Water Chemistry Guidelines, which are produced in collaboration with the
EPRI issue programs, based on ongoing research and plant and industry experience. Each guideline is a
technical consensus document developed by industry experts to optimize water chemistry programs and control
methods, thereby maximizing the long-term availability and safe operation of nuclear power plants. Guidelines
are formally reviewed on an annual cycle and generally revised on a 4-year cycle. Much of the work involves
technology developments needed to improve guidelines, including water chemistry control methods, improved
monitoring techniques, and chemical additives to control corrosion, reduce radiation fields, and maintain fuel
performance.

Water Chemistry - Program 41.09.03 p. 6

Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

Impact
 Improved water chemistry technology to support corrosion mitigation, fuel performance, radiation
management, water chemistry control methods, and improved monitoring techniques
 Optimization methods that nuclear plants can use to create strategic water chemistry plans customized
for maximizing plant availability and cost-efficiency in a manner consistent with safety and regulatory
requirements

How to Apply Results

Technology development and Water Chemistry Guidelines can be applied by members to implement improved
monitoring techniques, as well as optimize strategic water chemistry plans. These products must be read,
understood, and implemented by the chemistry community.

2011 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date

BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Sampling: Summarizes

sampling/analysis practices (frequencies, analysis methods, feedwater
Technical
sample line velocity) by the 49 participating boiling water reactors (BWRs) for 03/31/11
Update
key reactor water parameters (for example, chloride, sulfate, metals, Co-60,
and Zn-65) and feedwater metals.
BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Condensate Filtration:
Two areas are covered. The first area covers deep bed condensate
demineralizer ion exchange resins, providing details on the resin types
applied, resin properties, quantities used, and practices such as the use of
anion resin underlays at plants with both Deep Bed Only and Filter + Deep Technical
03/31/11
Bed condensate polishing systems. The second area covers condensate Update
filter demineralizer precoat materials, providing details on the composition of
the precoat materials applied (for example, all powdered resin, resin/fiber
mixtures, and mixtures containing weak acid resins), properties, and
quantities used.
BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Mitigation Performance
Indicator: Provides annual updates of industry status and progress in
Technical
meeting goals for chemistry programs designed to achieve intergranular 03/31/11
Update
stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) mitigation of reactor external piping and
internal components and to meet criteria for piping inspection relief.
PWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Primary Chemistry:
Provides information on operating and shutdown chemistry, chemistry control Technical
06/30/11
methods, and plant changes from participating utilities. Includes evaluations Update
and specific assessments on various chemistry control programs.
PWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Secondary Chemistry:
Provides information on operating chemistry, chemistry control methods, and Technical
06/30/11
plant changes from participating utilities. Includes evaluations and specific Update
assessments of various chemistry control programs.
PWR Zinc Application Sourcebook, Revision 1: Revision 1 to the PWR
Zinc Application Guidelines based on research developments, new guidance,
and plant experience since the initial publication in 2006. This revision also 09/30/11 Technical Report
will focus on additional information and guidance from plants already
implementing primary zinc injection.

Water Chemistry - Program 41.09.03 p. 7

Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date

BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Shutdown Chemistry and

Dose Rates: A summary of shutdown chemistry and drywell radiation dose
rates. This provides the only known detailed industry compilation of such
data. This is updated annually.
Technical
09/30/11
Update
A summary of shutdown drywell radiation dose rates. This provides the only
known detailed industry compilation of such data. This is updated after spring
and fall refueling outages, when new end-of-cycle drywell radiation survey
data are normally available. (February and June)
Generic Safety Assessment for Application of Elevated Hydrogen on
the Primary Side of a Four-loop Westinghouse Pressurized Water
Reactor: Completion of all necessary safety-related analyses as well as
identification of any necessary updates to plant Technical Specifications 09/30/11 Technical Report
based on recommendations from EPRI Report 1015017, Evaluation of
Altering the Hydrogen Concentration for Mitigation of Primary Water Stress
Corrosion Cracking.
BWR Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment - Chemistry Summary:
Technical
Captures the status of important reactor water, feedwater, and condensate 09/30/11
Update
chemistry parameters and relates them to plant design and operating factors.
Waste Class B/C Reduction Guide for Chemistry Managers: Provides
technical guidance on Waste Class B/C Reduction Strategies and addresses 12/23/11 Technical Report
impacts on chemistry programs.
2011 Interim Review of the Pressurized Water Reactor Secondary Water
Chemistry Guidelines, Revision 7: Complete and document the required Technical
12/23/11
annual review of the PWR Secondary Water Chemistry Guidelines in light of Update
industry research and plant experience.

First-of-a-kind Technology Demonstrations (base) (052418)

Key Research Question

Implementing new chemistry technologies typically requires demonstration at a plant site under controlled and
monitored conditions, informed by EPRI expertise and management. Data and information from these
demonstrations are instrumental in facilitating technology commercialization.

Approach
The project develops and tests new chemistry additives, new analysis methods, new instrumentation, and
application guidelines on how to efficiently use new chemistry technology. Field testing is an essential part of the
development process, as many new developments would not be implemented without an initial plant
demonstration.

Impact
 Provides experience and plant data from the first demonstration of new technologies
 Provides industry application guidelines based on lessons learned

How to Apply Results

Members gain access to data and guidance that can be used to inform technology application at other facilities.

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Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

2011 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date

Capillary Electrophoresis Sourcebook for BWRs: A comprehensive

sourcebook for optimized application of capillary electrophoresis for boiling 09/30/11 Technical Report
water reactor (BWR) feedwater anion and cation measurements.
Water Chemistry Assessment for New Plants - continuation:
Assessment will continue, per the work in 2010, for other new designs (the
ABWR and AP1000 designs were completed in 2010). The GE-H economic
simplified boiling water reactor (ESBWR), Areva U.S. EPR, and MHI U.S.
advanced pressurized water reactor (APWR) will be investigated. The work 12/23/11 Technical Report
provides an assessment of plant design and planned operation against the
current Water Chemistry Guidelines to identify gaps and the path forward for
any needed revised guidance. This project is will be conducted In
collaboration with the Advanced Nuclear Technology Program.

Software Development (base) (052419)

Key Research Question

Nuclear power plants must meet strict system performance guidelines as specified by EPRI chemistry
guidelines, the Institute for Nuclear Power Operations (INPO), and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)
to ensure pressure boundary integrity, fuel performance, and minimized radiation fields. Members require
calculation tools that are robust and consistent with industry practice to manage their programs within the
specified guidance.

Approach
Chemistry managers, engineers, and technicians rely on EPRI ChemWorksTM tools for developing and
optimizing their chemistry programs. The results from EPRI ChemWorks software programs are used in a
variety of chemistry system evaluations, including high-temperature pH calculations for reactivity control in
pressurized water reactors, hideout return evaluations for the secondary side of the steam generators, and
estimating corrosion product inventory during shutdown. From these predictions, chemistry personnel can
assess corrosion control, guide life-cycle strategies, and optimize the overall cost of the chemistry program. This
research area ensures the ChemWorks tools reflect the latest industry operating experience and have
functionality commensurate with industry needs.

Impact
 ChemWorks codes provide members with the opportunity to evaluate, optimize, and train plant personnel
on various chemistry programs and strategies.
 Continued optimization of ChemWorks can provide members with direct cost reductions.
 ChemWorks codes allow assessments of chemistries that impact component/asset management
strategies.

How to Apply Results

Chemistry personnel can implement the ChemWorks codes to evaluate the effects of chemistry on a variety of
situations, including corrosion mitigation, amine optimization, and resin life management.

Water Chemistry - Program 41.09.03 p. 9

Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

2011 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date

ChemWorks Tools version 4.0: Additional functionality and improvements

12/23/11 Software
will be implemented based on the 5-year plan.
MULTEQ Database version 7.0: Incorporation of significant updates based
on the recommendations and work of the MULTEQ Database Committee.
12/23/11 Technical Report
This activity will be conducted in collaboration with the Fuel Reliability and
Steam Generator Management Programs.

SMART ChemWorksTM User Group - Maintenance and Support (supplemental) (007452)

Key Research Question

Chemistry staffs in the nuclear power industry continue to shrink as a result of economic pressures and the
aging work force. Highly skilled personnel spend too much time completing mundane but necessary tasks, while
the backlog of important, but less time-sensitive obligations, continues to grow.

Approach
EPRI’S SMART ChemWorks™ is a real-time plant water chemistry monitoring and advisory system that aids
chemistry staff by completing routine chemistry analysis, identifying early indications of adverse plant chemistry,
and alerting personnel to emerging issues. Continued maintenance and support is required to ensure SMART
ChemWorks incorporates the latest operating experience and is broadly applicable across the global nuclear
industry.

Impact
SMART ChemWorks uses sophisticated mathematical models and pattern-recognition techniques to identify
abnormal conditions. Once installed, plant managers can look forward to increased efficiency and better use of
plant personnel, reduced risk of plant components damage, increased chemistry monitoring coverage and early
detection of chemistry problems, improved control of chemical injection systems, reduced cost due to
optimization of grab sample frequencies, and reduced “out-of-specification” time for instrumentation.

How to Apply Results

The SMART ChemWorks system relies on continuous chemistry monitoring (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
and real-time evaluation of plant chemistry conditions, accurate and prompt diagnosis of abnormal chemistry,
and instantaneous alerting to adverse chemistry trends through an email/paging system and web page alerts.
The output from SMART ChemWorks represents technical intelligence on which plant chemists can take action
as appropriate.

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Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

SMART ChemWorksTM User Group - New Installation (supplemental)

Key Research Question

Chemistry staffs in the nuclear power industry continue to shrink as a result of economic pressures and the
aging work force. Highly skilled personnel spend too much time completing mundane but necessary tasks, while
the backlog of important, but less time-sensitive obligations, continues to grow.

Approach
EPRI’S SMART ChemWorks™ is a real-time plant water chemistry monitoring and advisory system that aids
chemistry staff by completing routine chemistry analysis, identifying early indications of adverse plant chemistry,
and alerting personnel to emerging issues. Installation of SMART ChemWorks requires a coordinated effort
between EPRI engineers and plant team members. A one time on-site meeting is required between team
members to establish project scope and timelines to ensure a successful implementation plan.

Impact
SMART ChemWorks uses sophisticated mathematical models and pattern-recognition techniques to identify
abnormal conditions. Once installed, plant managers can look forward to increased efficiency and better use of
plant personnel, reduced risk of plant components damage, increased chemistry monitoring coverage and early
detection of chemistry problems, improved control of chemical injection systems, reduced cost due to
optimization of grab sample frequencies, and reduced “out-of-specification” time or instrumentation

How to Apply Results

The SMART ChemWorks system relies on continuous chemistry monitoring (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
and real-time evaluation of plant chemistry conditions, accurate and prompt diagnosis of abnormal chemistry,
and instantaneous alerting to adverse chemistry trends through an email/paging system and web page alerts.
The output from SMART ChemWorks represents technical intelligence on which plant chemists can take action
as appropriate.

ChemWorksTM User Group (supplemental) (006521)

Key Research Question

Economic pressures, work demand and reduced staffing require chemists to spend more time in the field and
less time evaluating changes in the chemistry programs. ChemWorks™ provides users with a simple set of tools
to quickly evaluate plant chemistry controls.

Approach
The ChemWorks User Group provides several mechanisms for enhancing the ChemWorks software codes and
their application at nuclear plants. Through industry forums, newsletters, annual meetings (U.S. and
international), and webcast sessions, EPRI technical staff gain insight into user experience that can lead to
needed software modifications and improvements.

Impact
ChemWorks uses sophisticated mathematical models to aid plant chemists in developing optimal chemistry
programs and applying appropriate chemistry controls that support long-term equipment reliability. Users Group
members provide input into continued software improvements that reflect industry needs and experience.

How to Apply Results

User Group members receive direct support via meetings and product development as well as individual training
on ChemWorks™ codes.

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Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

Chemistry Technical Strategy Group (supplemental)

Key Research Question

The Chemistry Technical Strategy Group provides a forum for discussing technical issues regarding the
strategic management of BWR and PWR chemistry programs. Emerging chemical issues challenge plant staff in
both the day-to-day and long-term management of chemistry programs. This group enables members to
exchange ideas and information related to emerging issues as well as lessons learned.

The Chemistry Technical Strategy Group is available in 3-year and 1-year membership options. The 3-year
membership inlcudes 1 full cycle chemistry assessment.

Approach
The Chemistry Technical Strategy Group, available as a 3-year membership, enables plant chemists from
BWRs and PWRs to share best practices and discuss chemistry challenges. Meetings will include general
sessions to address common chemistry issues and break-out sessions to address issues specific to BWRs and
PWRs.

In addition to the member forum for sharing lessons learned, participants are eligible for annual technical
consulting and a focused assessment during the 3-year membership period. The chemistry assessment entails
an expert review of a plant’s chemistry program and recommendations on how EPRI technology can assist in
addressing plant-specific issues and improving chemistry performance.

Impact
Participation in the Chemistry Technical Strategy Group keeps members abreast of emerging issues in the
rapidly changing climate surrounding chemistry issues and provides members with a forum for technical
exchange. On-site consulting time provides expert support for specific plant or corporate project requests
focused on long-term strategic planning.

How to Apply Results

Participation in periodic webcasts and meetings keeps members abreast of emerging issues. Annual on-site
consultation time and the focused chemistry assessment are used to ensure EPRI guidance is applied to
emerging and critical plant-specific issues. The annual consultation time is used to address more narrowly
focused issues, while the full assessment provides a broader programmatic perspective. Both venues provide
plant-specific recommendations to maximize plant benefits.

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Electric Power Research Institute 2011 Research Portfolio

PWR Secondary Cycle pH Optimization (supplemental) (064149)

Key Research Question

Materials corrosion in the condensate, feedwater, and drain systems of pressurized water reactors (PWRs)
generates a significant amount of corrosion products in the secondary cycle. Generally, these corrosion
products are transported into steam generators (SGs) and deposited on tubing surfaces, tubesheets, and tube
support plates. These corrosion products can act as sites for ionic impurity concentration in restricted areas,
leading to corrosion of steam-generator tubing.

Approach
This project will develop a plant-specific corrosion-products mass balance file based on current plant equipment.
The mass balance results are evaluated to assess how changes in the type and concentration of amines could
optimize secondary cycle pH.

Impact
Local pH strongly affects corrosion of several different types, including intergranular attack and stress corrosion
cracking. The right choice of amines and proper operation of a pH control additive will reduce SG fouling and
deposit consideration. Secondary-cycle pH optimization aids in the selection of optimum amines for the plant,
thus minimizing corrosion product transfer.

How to Apply Results

Members receive a detailed report discussing the status of corrosion-product transport and local pHs in the
secondary cycle, along with recommendations and supporting documentation for optimum amine selection.
Application of these results will support an optimized feedwater iron control.

PWR Dispersant Application Support (supplemental) (061414)

Key Research Question

Steam generator deposits (fouling) can inhibit heat transfer, lead to thermal-hydraulic instabilities through
blockage of tube supports, and create occluded regions where corrosive species can concentrate along tubes
and in tube-to-tube support plate crevices. Steam generator performance is compromised not only by formation
of an insulating scale, but by the removal of tubes from service due to corrosion.

Dispersant application is a very promising technology for significantly reducing steam generator fouling. A
number of utilities are pursuing dispersant applications using the PWR Dispersant Application Sourcebook
(1015020) and additional plant-specific support as provided through this project. EPRI also can assist in
evaluating newer dispersant application technologies. For example, dispersants can be used for increasing
cleanup of corrosion products during steam generator wet layup or during long-path recirculation cleanup of the
condensate/feedwater piping prior to power operation.

Approach
This EPRI project will support assessment and application of dispersant for steam generator fouling mitigation.
Specific work will be determined in collaboration with the funding utilities, depending on need and plant-specific
concerns. Assessments could involve the following:

 Plant-specific materials qualification assessment

 Chemistry operation and monitoring with dispersant injection (application plan)

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 Evaluation of steam generator thermal performance, including a baseline evaluation prior to dispersant
injection and customization of a thermal performance tracking spreadsheet
 Preparation of materials needed to support a 10CFR50.59 evaluation

Impact
Successful on-line application of dispersant could reduce steam generator fouling by as much as 50% based on
results from previous plant trials. Other applications during steam generator wet layup and startup could provide
additional benefits.

How to Apply Results

The products from this project are assessments, site-specific reports, and/or recommendations in support of
application at a lead pressurized water reactor (PWR) unit. EPRI works with each funding utility to identify and
deliver what is needed for successful application, within funding constraints.

2011 Products
Planned
Product Title & Description Product Type
Completion Date

Dispersant application assessments: Assessments completed based on Technical

12/22/11
member input and needs. Resource

PWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Group (supplemental) (063963)

Key Research Question

To minimize ionic and particulate impurity transport in the reactor coolant and the steam generators, PWR
plants employ a wide variety of chemical and volume control systems, condensate polishers, and steam
generator blowdown demineralizer systems and use different strategies to operate theses systems. The PWR
Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Group provides a forum for sharing industry experience that
can improve and accelerate plant activities to reduce impurity transport.

Approach
The User Group will track operating experience and perform focused studies on specific industry issues.
Technology reviews and comparisons of plant practices, for example, will help plants improve reactor coolant
system cleanup, reduce iron transport to the steam generators, and reduce low-level waste generation. Review
and benchmarking activities will be performed through annual meetings, with products defined by members. The
PWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Group will function in a manner similar to the BWR
Condensate Filter User Group, which was formed in the late 1990s to address problems and optimization issues
with condensate filters.

Impact
This group will identify and improve the application of demineralizers, filters, and membrane technologies
applied in PWRs by assisting in the evaluation of filter and ion exchange performance and by sharing of
information concerning filter design, novel resin use, and other general operating experience.

How to Apply Results

Application of the practices identified as optimal will be performed at member utilities on an as-needed basis. A
key product target will be development of a demineralizer and filter sourcebook, from which users can reference
industry best practices.

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PWR Primary Zinc Application User Group (supplemental) (061425)

Key Research Question

Many EPRI reports have been published over the years regarding the effectiveness of zinc addition for primary
water stress corrosion cracking mitigation (for both initiation and crack growth rate), including the development
of PWR Zinc Application Guidelines in 2006. However, there remains a strong need for plant personnel to
exchange information first-hand and provide focused input on future research activities.

Approach
At each user group meeting, members provide an update on their plant or utility's zinc injection program status.
These updates address all aspects of a zinc injection program, including planning, implementation, scheduling,
and long-term strategy. The user group members also receive updates related to pressurized water reactor
(PWR) reactor coolant system zinc addition.

Impact
The Zinc User Group provides a forum for members to benchmark new and existing zinc injection programs
throughout the industry. Sharing of lessons learned and annual updates related to EPRI research programs
associated with zinc addition will provide utilities with valuable information to guide planning and
implementation.

How to Apply Results

The plant experiences and challenges shared through the Zinc User Group provide learning opportunities for the
entire industry. Plant personnel are able to bring these lessons learned back to their plants for implementation
for further analysis.

BWR Cycle Chemistry Evaluation (supplemental)

Key Research Question

Plant chemistry programs are instrumental in maintaining nuclear plant reliability and availability. In-depth
technical reviews of a boiling water reactor's (BWR's) cycle chemistry can provide specific recommendations
aimed at optimizing chemistry control, enhancing plant operations, mitigating stress corrosion cracking, ensuring
fuel reliability, and reducing radiation exposure and radioactive waste generation.

Approach
This project will assist plant operators in optimizing BWR chemistry. Plant-specific evaluations of the most
recent operating cycle will be evaluated and recommendations will be made to support enhanced plant
operation.

Impact
 Improved plant operation and cycle chemistry control
 Reduced costs for chemicals, additives, and other consumables
 Reduced stress corrosion cracking of susceptible components
 Lower radiation dose and radioactive waste
 Improved fuel performance

How to Apply Results

By applying the detailed report recommendations, plant operators can maximize plant performance and aid in
extending plant life. Recommendations may include optimization of condensate treatment and reactor water
cleanup systems, additive chemistries (such as zinc addition, hydrogen addition, and/or noble metal addition),
and improvements in chemistry sampling and analysis programs.

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BWR Startup Hydrogen Injection Evaluation (supplemental)

Key Research Question

All U.S. boiling water reactors (BWRs) are currently injecting hydrogen to mitigate stress corrosion cracking of
susceptible components. However, hydrogen injection is typically not injected until the plant is at 5% power or
more. Earlier injection of hydrogen, specifically at plant startup until typical feedwater hydrogen injection can be
initiated, could provide additional mitigation value. Utilities interested in this technology may need support in
implementing this technology.

Approach
This project will assist plant operators in identifying preferred locations for early hydrogen injection during BWR
startup as well as support initial planning efforts for possible plant modifications to accommodate the injection
process.

Impact
 Early identification of physical plant constraints
 Shorter lead times for system implementation
 Improved project scoping and accuracy
 Tighter budget and schedule control

How to Apply Results

Plant-specific recommendations as documented in the final report will detail how early hydrogen injection can be
optimized at the plant.

BWR Feedwater Iron Optimization Support (supplemental) (062736)

Key Research Question

The BWR Water Chemistry Guidelines recommend feedwater iron concentration in the range of 0.1-1.0 ppb for
plants operating with zinc addition and reducing chemistry conditions (hydrogen water chemistry as well as
noble metal application technologies). Operation in the range of 0.1-0.5 ppb is further encouraged to reduce the
amount of zinc needed for dose rate control purposes. While many plants have been able to achieve these
conditions, plants with non-optimized condensate filtration/demineralizer systems may need additional support
to reduce feedwater iron inputs to these recommended levels.

Approach
This project supports the optimization of feedwater iron by analyzing current operation and performance and
providing recommendations to optimize future performance of the condensate filtration demineralizer system.

Impact
The optimization of feedwater iron input results in enhanced plant operation:
 Reduced radwaste generation and exposure
 Improved fuel performance and reliability
 Optimized stress corrosion cracking mitigation technologies (such as hydrogen addition and noble metal
injection)

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How to Apply Results

This project provides direct consultations with plant staff and a final electronic report detailing the project work
and recommendations. Implementation of the report recommendations regarding precoat usage and dosage on
septa will be detailed. Application of these results will support optimized feedwater iron control.

BWR Condensate Filter User Group (supplemental) (006388)

Key Research Question

While nuclear industry experience with condensate filtration is extensive, the variety of septa types, precoat
materials, vessel designs, backwash, and precoating methods present application challenges. Open dialogue
among users to share experiences can drive excellence in performance, especially with the ever-increasing
emphasis on water chemistry limits and impacts on fuel performance, stress corrosion cracking mitigation, and
radwaste and exposure reduction.

Approach
The BWR Condensate Filter User Group supports optimization of water chemistry filtration technologies to
control important chemistry parameters. Through annual User Group conferences, electronic reports,
newsletters, and industry alerts, members gain access to industry experience that can be tailored to individual
plant applications. A database of operational and technical information is maintained to address condensate
filter system challenges.

Impact
This User Group has been successfully supporting the nuclear industry for more than 10 years. The database of
operational and technical information provides extensive insight into the understanding of condensate filter
system challenges. Lessons learned and implemented from the User Group results in reduced radwaste and
worker exposure, optimized fuel performance, and enhanced overall plant operation.

How to Apply Results

Members of the BWR Condensate Filter User Group apply the experience of other member's situations to their
own utility. Special studies also are made available on a plant-specific basis and shared with the membership
group.

BWR Zinc User Group (supplemental)

Key Research Question

Many Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) reports have been published over the years regarding plant
experience with zinc injection on drywell shutdown radiation dose rates and laboratory investigations on zinc
effectiveness for intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) mitigation for sensitized Alloy 600, 304
stainless steel, and Alloy 182 weld metal. However, given the need to balance the chemistry and radiation
benefits of zinc with fuel concerns regarding tenacious crud deposits and the potential effects of crud/oxide
spallation, there remains a strong need for plant personnel to exchange information first-hand and provide
focused input on future research activities. These activities can be supported through a BWR Zinc User Group.

Approach
The BWR Zinc User Group will enable participants to update peers on plant/utility zinc injection programs.
Updates will address all aspects of the zinc program, including planning, implementation, scheduling, and long-
term strategy. User Group members will receive updates related to radiation field control, reactor water and
feedwater zinc data trends, reactor water Co-60(s)/Zn(s) ratio control, Co-60 trends, and effectiveness of Zn
injection following noble metal applications and reactor recirculation piping chemical decontaminations.

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Impact
The BWR Zinc Users Group will provide a forum for utilities to benchmark zinc injection programs throughout
the industry. Sharing of lessons learned and annual updates related to EPRI research programs associated
with zinc addition will provide utilities with valuable information to guide planning and implementation.

How to Apply Results

The EPRI BWR Zinc User Group will provide members with access to industry data relevant to zinc injection,
data correlations, an annual User Group meeting to share and benchmark plant experiences related to zinc
injection, and discussion of EPRI zinc-related projects and work prioritization.

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