Statistical analysis of UH3 initiation using electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD)

AbstractStatistical analysis of uranium-hydride (UH3) initiation location was undertaken on an as-received Magnox-U sample using electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD). Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and focused ion beam (FIB) milling were used for UH3 identification and complementary examination of the reacted surface. From the interrogation of 147 hydride sites on the electrochemically etched sample it was found that hydride formation occurred predominantly around grain and twin boundaries. Clear preference of hydride attack was observed around grains with high rotational mismatch

Sorption of uranium onto iron bearing minerals

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Novel Methods of Isotopic Separation of Lithium 6

Nuclear applications often require specific isotopes of an element with the right properties. An example is lithium, which has two isotopes that play a crucial role in the nuclear industry. Lithium-7 is commonly employed as a pH controller in the cooling systems of nuclear reactors, while lithium-6 is vital for tritium production. However, the natural abundance of lithium-6 is only 7.5%, which is insufficient to achieve a high breeding rate of tritium in technically feasible breeder blanket designs. Therefore, increasing the proportion of lithium-6 in any breeder blanket concept presents a significant challenge that needs to be addressed. Prior to the operation of any commercial fusion power plant, it is necessary to establish a facility capable of producing several tons of enriched lithium-6 per year. Currently, no such facility exists. This study explores the different possibility for lithium isotope separation, and assess their viability