Ongoing research projects

PIONIC

The Program for Investigation of Nondestructive Evaluation by International Collaboration (PIONIC) is an initiative dedicated to advancing Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) techniques, ensuring the structural integrity and safety of nuclear power plants. By uniting experts from government, industry, and academia, PIONIC addresses critical challenges in the detection, characterization, and mitigation of material degradation. Building on the foundations of the Program for the Inspection of Nickel Alloy Components (PINC) and the Program to Assess the Reliability of Emerging NDE Techniques (PARENT), the initiative leverages modern technology and global collaboration to enhance inspection methodologies and improve the reliability of NDE processes. The PINC, PARENT and PIONIC initiatives are executed through an international bi-lateral agreement between the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (US NRC) and national regulators. It allows for the inclusion of various government agencies and private entities. Over the years, the following countries have participated (listed in alphabetical order): Finland, Germany, Japan, Republic of Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.

The program originated from the need to address stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in nickel-based alloys in nuclear reactors. Research under PINC and PARENT provided critical insights into SCC morphology, NDE responses, and inspection variability, emphasizing inspector qualification, performance demonstrations, and standardized protocols. PINC focused on Primary Water Stress Corrosion Cracking (PWSCC), and PARENT expanded the evaluation scope to include phased-array ultrasonic testing and eddy current testing. 

PIONIC investigates advancements in NDE to meet the evolving needs of the nuclear industry. Research explores Machine Learning (ML) for data analysis automation, optimization of ultrasonic testing (UT) methods such as Full Matrix Capture (FMC) and Total Focusing Method (TFM), and the integration of additive manufacturing and advanced reactor designs. International round-robin testing ensures reproducible results. 

Through global collaboration and technological innovation, PIONIC strengthens NDE capabilities and enhances nuclear safety. Its contributions to data analysis, inspection reliability, and methodology development support the sustainability of nuclear infrastructure amid evolving challenges.