What Does PCMI Stand For?

PCMI stands for Pellet Cladding Mechanical Interaction

Pellet Cladding Mechanical Interaction (PCMI) refers to the interactions between nuclear fuel pellets and the cladding that surrounds them in a nuclear reactor. This phenomenon is critical for understanding fuel performance and integrity under operational conditions, as it influences thermal conductivity, fuel behavior during operation, and the overall safety and efficiency of nuclear fuel systems. PCMI analysis is essential for optimizing fuel design and predicting potential issues such as cladding failure and thermomechanical degradation.