The accelerated fuel qualification (AFQ) framework has been used for the initial development of multiscale modeling of silicon carbide fiber reinforced composite (SiC-SiC). The AFQ framework provides a methodology to leverage physics-informed multi-scale modeling along with a reduced set of empirical test data to reduce the time and cost of licensing and qualification of new, yet to be qualified nuclear fuel systems while maintaining the overall nuclear power plant safety case. SiC-SiC is being proposed for in-core applications, most notable fuel cladding, for current and next generation nuclear reactors due to its high temperature stability, irradiation tolerance, and ability to withstand many accident conditions. As these composites exhibit multiscale architectures and complex microstructure-based fracture mechanics, it is an excellent test case for the AFQ system. Four different models have been initially developed to model SiC-SiC ranging from microscale to engineering system level. These models include a homogenized tow model, a fast Fourier transform based weave model, a finite element-based weave model, and a BISON fuel performance model. Results of these models are presented and where applicable, compared to existing separate effects test data. By using the AFQ framework during model development, several near-term benefits have been secured including a reduction in development time for the SiC-SiC cladding, more targeted irradiation testing, and a better understanding of uncertainty.
