Probabilistic descriptions of resistance of safety-related structures in nuclear plants
Abstract Calculations of reliability of safety-related nuclear plant structures require a knowledge of the probability distributions that describe their resistance. This study considers the applicability of existing statistical data for describing the resistance of steel and reinforced concrete nuclear plant structures. Probability distributions are recommended which can be used in assessing the reliability of containments and other Category I structures, developing fragilities, and selecting appropriate resistance criteria for probability-based structural design.
SUMMARY. We introduce sequential testing procedures for the planning and analysis of reliability studies to assess an exposure's measurement error. The designs allow repeated evaluation of reliability of the measurements and stop testing if early evidence shows the measurement error is within the level of tolerance. Methods are developed and critical values tabulated for a number of two-stage designs. The methods are exemplified using an example evaluating the reliability of biomarkers associated with oxidative stress.