The development and design of reactor containment structures are studied. Information is given on: plastic deformation of membrane shells of revolution, a simplified shield-structure interaction problem, response of finite length cylinders to dynamic loads, the ultimate strength of a spherical gap with a rigidly reinforced opening, a theoretical study of the effect of circular openings on the plastic behavior of plates, bulging experiments on pressurized cylinders of finite length, and the development of a containment handbook for designers. (N.W.R.).

Analyses are being made of the response of containment vessels. Approximate burst strengths of finite cylinders with various end conditions were determined. The behavior of the infinite cylindrical shell under dynamic loads was studied. The effects of openings on the strength of vessels are being investigated. The effects of a central rigid insert on the strength of a flat circular membrane were determined. Materials are being fabricated for bulging experiments on pressurized cylinders of finite length. A containment handbook is being prepared. (M.C.G.).

A survey of recent publications concerned with structural and mechanical aspects of nuclear reactor containment was conducted during the first phase period. This report presents an annotated bibliography of 279 such publications. Many of the references listed appeared in Nuclear Science Abstracts and were published in the period from 1954 through 1957. (auth).