Investigations on UAlx-Al dispersion fuels for high-flux reactors

The paper outlines the preparation of $\text{UAl}{}_{\mathrm{x}}\text{-Al}$ dispersion fuel plates for thermal high-flux reactors. The work described includes the preparation of UAl₂, UAl₃ and UAl₄ compounds by induction melting and their processing to Al-clad fuel plates using the picture-frame technique. Induction melting in alumina crucibles and subsequent homogenisation can be used to produce relatively homogeneous $\text{UAl}{}_{\mathrm{x}}$ compounds. After comminution to a predetermined size range and blending with Al, the pressed compacts can be rolled into Al-clad fuel plates. UAl₃ and UAl₂ compounds react with Al forming UAl₄. The reactions begin at about 673 K, and have an activation energy of 52.6 and 42.6 kcal/mol, respectively. The measured properties of the dispersions and UAl-phases such as thermal expansion, thermal and electrical conductivity, tensile strength, microhardness and hot hardness are affected by the concentration of the dispersed phase and can be explained in the light of existing theoretical models. Due to its potential as a high-flux reactor fuel with higher uranium content the preparation and properties of UAl₂-Al dispersions as well as the preliminary data about their stability under irradiation may be of particular interest.