Use, limitations and possibilities of Arrhenius based extrapolations for LTO studies of polymeric materials

The Swedish nuclear power plants aim to extend their lifetimes toward 80 years. This requires enhanced aging management of the polymeric materials used in components e.g. cables and gaskets. However, the long-term property behavior of polymeric materials is complex and multifactorial in nature. Much research has been conducted over the years, but it is still difficult to confidently predict the lifetime of polymeric components.

 In Sweden there are existing guidelines on how much a degradation process may be accelerated for environmental qualification (EQ) purposes. This report focuses on the broader framework of short-term testing based on the Arrhenius methodology and the practicality and suitability of the existing guidelines. It is deliberated through a literature study, interviews with international experts, and also a perspective on extrapolations in terms of boundaries, underlying material science, and remaining risk.