Synthesis of (Zr, Y,Am)O2-x transmutation targets

An optimised process consisting of sol gel external gelation and infiltration steps has been developed for the fabrication of oxide fuels and targets for the transmutation of minor actinides. Process development for yttria stabilised zirconia based americium targets has included the introduction of carbon into the sol gel produced beads, removal of which leads to higher porosity increasing the maximum amount of americium that can be infiltrated in a single step. Furthermore, the beads are softened enabling better pressing characteristics and most importantly an optimised microstructure devoid of lenticular pores. This microstructure improvement, along with the 2-3% higher density has a strong positive effect on the thermal conductivity, which is increased by 40%. Thus, the margin between operating temperature and melting temperature of the fuel is increased, improving dramatically safety aspects of the fuel in the reactor.

NAESTREN Catharina;  STAICU Dragos;  SOMERS Joseph;  FERNANDEZ CARRETERO Asuncion; 

2012-12-05

ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV

JRC58518

0022-3115,   

https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC58518,   

10.1016/j.jnucmat.2012.08.037,