b'ATF concepts need to be characterizedzirconium alloy used for channelFigure 2. ATF concepts being for performance in the entire fuelmaterials needs to be replaced as well,investigated by GEcycle (Figure 1). For claddings, GEGE is evaluating to utilize nuclear grade is developing the ARMOR family ofsilicon carbide composite materials coatings for Zircaloy-2 tubing whichto fabricate the channels. Since the will provide outstanding resistancechannel does not require hermeticity to fretting under normal operationbut requires compatibility with hot conditions and increased resistancewater and resistance to attack by steam, to oxidation in Design Basis Accidentthe development of silicon carbide (DBA) and Beyond Design Basis(SiC) composites for channels is a Accident (BDBA) conditions. GE islogical first step before SiC composites also developing the IronClad claddingcan be implemented for fuel cladding. concept which involves the use of aOn the fuel side GE is exploring the monolithic FeCrAl alloy for housing themodification of the current urania urania fuel (Figure 2). Since the currentfuel to make it more resistant to 2021|AFC ACCOMPLISHMENTS 91'