Abstract: The instant invention provides a method of identifying lead-bearing crystalline phases or compounds in deposits formed on surfaces, such as the heated surfaces of nuclear power plant systems. A deposit sample or specimen is obtained and examined to obtain an image, an area elemental composition spectrum, and an x-ray elemental map to identify a location containing a lead-bearing species of interest. Electron backscatter diffraction is then used to obtain a characteristic diffraction pattern from the location, which is compared to a library of known diffraction patterns to identify any lead-bearing crystalline phases or compounds present in the location. Finally, any potential phase or compound of the lead in the deposit sample is identified by comparing the elemental composition spectrum with the electron backscatter diffraction crystalline compound identification.

Abstract: Defects in nuclear fuel elements are ascertained and located within an assembled fuel assembly by ultrasonic means. In a typical embodiment of the invention, an ultrasonic search unit is positioned within the fuel assembly opposite the lower plenum of the fuel element to be tested. An ultrasonic pulse is radially projected into the element. Defective fuel elements are ascertained by ultrasonic reflection measurements.