P
Phosphorus
Z = 15 · Nonmetal · 31.0 u
Nuclear Engineering Significance
Trace impurity in reactor steels where it promotes radiation embrittlement of the reactor pressure vessel. Phosphorus content is tightly controlled in RPV steel specifications (typically < 0.012 wt%). Not intentionally used in reactor core designs.
Basic properties
- Atomic number (Z)
- 15
- Standard atomic mass
- 31.0 u
- Category
- Nonmetal
Isotopes & cross-section data
View in ALLEN →| Isotope | Mass (A) | Half-life | ZAID | Libraries | σ(E) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P-31 | 31 | Stable | .80c.71c.70c | View → |