1 research outputs found
Optimization of Uranium-Doped Americium Oxide Synthesis for Space Application
Americium
241 is a potential alternative to plutonium 238 as an
energy source for missions into deep space or to the dark side of
planetary bodies. In order to use the <sup>241</sup>Am isotope for
radioisotope thermoelectric generator or radioisotope heating unit
(RHU) production, americium materials need to be developed. This study
focuses on the stabilization of a cubic americium oxide phase using
uranium as the dopant. After optimization of the material preparation,
(Am<sub>0.80</sub>U<sub>0.12</sub>Np<sub>0.06</sub>Pu<sub>0.02</sub>)O<sub>1.8</sub> has been successfully synthesized to prepare a 2.96
g pellet containing 2.13 g of <sup>241</sup>Am for fabrication of
a small scale RHU prototype. Compared to the use of pure americium
oxide, the use of uranium-doped americium oxide leads to a number
of improvements from a material properties and safety point of view,
such as good behavior under sintering conditions or under alpha self-irradiation.
The mixed oxide is a good host for neptunium (i.e., the <sup>241</sup>Am daughter element), and it has improved safety against radioactive
material dispersion in the case of accidental conditions