Experimental-statistical analysis of radiation embrittlement of VVER-440 vessel materials

An experimental-statistical approach, consisting in obtaining and then anal yzing statistically an experimental database, is used as a basis for predic ting radiation embrittlement of reactor vessel materials. A large experimen tal database on radiation embrittlement of materials irradiated in VVER-440 has now been accumulated. ne purpose of the present paper is to analyze th ese data statistically, compare the data with currently employed standard r elation, and obtain a correlation relation, which better describes these da ta, for weld-seam material and for the main metal of a vessel. A new, more reliable, standard relation is developed for these materials and recommende d for use. 6 figures, 6 references.