Lead-Bismuth Eutectic (LBE) is considered one of the most promising nuclear fission coolant materials for Generation IV fast reactors.
Compared with traditional sodium or sodium-potassium alloys, LBE exhibits lower chemical reactivity, lower neutron absorption cross-section, and superior thermal stability, making it safer and more adaptable for long-term reactor operation.
Product Specifications
| Pb-Bi Rectangular Ingot | |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 60×60×30mm |
| Unit weight | 1.5~3.0kg |
| Form | Solid cast block |
| Pb-Bi Cylindrical Cast Rod | |
| Diameter | 90~140mm |
| Height | 150~300mm |
| Unit weight | 15~50kg |
Packaging
| Layer | Description | Protective Function |
| Inner | Vacuum-sealed aluminum-plastic wrap | Isolates air and moisture (dew point ≤ –40°C) |
| Outer | Foam-wrapped layer | Provides physical cushioning and impact protection |
Performance Advantages
The Lead-Bismuth Eutectic alloy provides a unique combination of properties for safe and efficient reactor operation:
| Property | Value/Description |
| Melting Point | < 400 K (~127°C) |
| Boiling Point | 1943 K (~1670°C) |
| Neutron Absorption | Very low |
| Chemical Reactivity | Inert compared to alkali metals |
| Impurity Control | ≤ 100 ppm total (O, Cd, Sb, etc.) |
These properties allow LBE to serve not only as an efficient coolant, but also as a neutron moderator and radiation shield, extending the life of core materials and improving reactor safety.
Applications in Nuclear Reactor Systems
High-purity LBE is widely adopted in research and deployment of lead-cooled fast reactors (LFRs). Prominent programs include:
- SVBR-100 and BREST-OD-300
- SSTAR and LFR-DEMO concepts
- Ongoing material compatibility tests
- Deployed in PHOENIX-I circulation loop as coolant candidate for future fast reactors
Thanks to its thermal, chemical, and neutronic advantages, LBE is positioned to become a core material in next-generation reactor designs focused on safety, efficiency, and reduced long-lived waste.
Quality Control and Traceability
We ensure material quality through full-process management:
Raw Material Traceability: Verified batches of refined lead and bismuth
Smelting Control: Vacuum induction melting (VIM) to ensure alloy homogeneity
Testing Parameters:
- Impurity content: Certified by ICP-MS
- Surface finish: Ra ≤ 3.2 μm
- Dimensional tolerance: ±0.5 mm
- Phase stability verification via thermal cycling
Storage Recommendations
Store in a dry environment at 15–25°C, relative humidity <30%. The sealed packaging protects against moisture, oxidation, and cross-contamination.
Customization and Technical Support
We provide comprehensive solutions for nuclear research institutes, reactor developers, and system integrators:
- Customizable ingot sizes and geometry
- Radiopurity documentation & impurity profiles
- Support for international fusion & fission R&D
- Performance validation under thermal stress and corrosion environments
Contact us to discuss your reactor-grade coolant material requirements or request a technical whitepaper.