Project description
Behind HTD in next-gen nuclear reactors
Next-generation nuclear reactors face a major challenge due to heat transfer deterioration (HTD), which threatens safety and efficiency and ultimately hampers the EU’s decarbonisation goals. Current models fail to predict HTD reliably, as they only correlate it with flow oscillations without establishing causation, limiting potential solutions. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the PREDICT-HT project is examining whether pressure variations induced by flow oscillations are the fundamental trigger of HTD. It will use theoretical analysis and targeted experiments. The findings will be used to develop a new predictive model of the pressure-driven mechanisms that destabilise coolant films and lead to HTD.
Objective
Heat Transfer Deterioration (HTD) is a critical, unresolved phenomenon that risks the safety and efficiency of next-generation nuclear reactors, directly impeding EU decarbonization goals. Current models fail predictively because they correlate HTD with flow oscillations without establishing causality. This project, “PREDICT-HT,” tests the central hypothesis that pressure variations caused by flow oscillations are the fundamental trigger for HTD. The experienced researcher (ER) will achieve this by integrating targeted experiments with advanced theoretical analysis, leveraging the host’s unique Spectral Element Method (SEM) solver to accurately simulate the transient physics of two-phase flow instabilities. This approach will: 1) quantify critical pressure-oscillation thresholds for HTD initiation, 2) establish a novel, physics-based stability criterion across boiling regimes, and 3) develop the first predictive model of the pressure-driven mechanisms that destabilize coolant films. Deciphering these mechanisms will enable stable operation of high-heat-flux systems, improving heat-transfer margins by 8–10% and reducing global CO2 emissions by tens of millions of tonnes annually by 2040. This fellowship, with secondments at Westinghouse Electric Sweden and Safetec Norway, will transform the ER's profile by providing decisive training in experimental methodology, complementing existing numerical expertise, to create a versatile leader in energy technology research.
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Keywords
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Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-PF
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
7491 Trondheim
Norway
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.