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Spherical nano-sized YSZ (yttria stabilized ZrO2) powders were successfully synthesized via a reverse microemulsion system. The water droplets in the microemulsion system of yclohexane/water/span85/Triton X-100/hexyl alcohol can act as the nano-reactors which solubilize zirconium oxychloride and ammonia water separately. The minute original reactors are favor to the formation of nano-sized spherical YSZ powders and the dispersibility of the powders can be controlled effectually by adjusting the weight ratio of the LiNO3 molten salt to the precursor. The phase transformation from cubic to monoclinic starts at and 500??C and finally monoclinic and cubic phase with increased crytallinity coexist at 800??C. The effect of LiNO3 molten salt in the formation of YSZ powders was also discussed.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nanocrystalline cemented tungsten carbide has attracted considerable interests for use in cutting tool because of its superior mechanical properties. In this study, nano-sized powders of mixed WC and Co were prepared from attrition-milled oxides by a gas reduction-carburization process. The effects of compacting pressure, heating schedule, additional ball-milling, and the presence of a grain growth inhibitor on the sintering properties of the nano-sized WC-Co powders were examined. The grain size and phases in WC-Co alloy were clearly affected by compacting pressure. Because of the trapped gases and the lower melting point of the cobalt binder, when a compact of nano-sized WC-Co powder was sintered through a heating schedule with holding steps, the sintered alloy maintained the small size of WC grains without any #eta# phase. In addition, the additional ball-milling improved the microstructure and ...

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TaC and TaC-1wt.% B4C powders were consolidated using spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 1850^oC and varying pressure of 100, 255 and 363MPa. The effect of pressure on the densification and grain size is evaluated. The role of nano-sized B4C as sintering aid and grain growth inhibitor is studied by means of XRD, SEM and high resolution TEM. Fully dense TaC samples were produced at a pressure of 255MPa and higher at 1850^oC. The increasing pressure also resulted in an increase in TaC grain size. Addition of B4C leads to an increase in the density of 100MPa sample from 89% to 97%. B4C nano-powder resists grain growth even at high pressure of 363MPa. The formation of TaB2/Carbon at TaC grain boundaries helps in pinning the grain boundary and inhibiting grain growth. The effect of B4C addition on...

Science.gov (United States)

... Title : THE INFLUENCE OF GRAIN BOUNDARY CARBIDE DENSITY ON THE BRITTLE FRACTURE OF FERRITE PEARLITE STEELS. ...

Science.gov (United States)

A number of alloys of zirconium have been investigated as part of a program aimed at improving the high-temperature tensile and creep strength of zirconium. These alloys include aluminum, beryllium, lead, magnesium, molybdenum, niobium, tantalum, tin, titanium, tungsten, vanadium, and zinc, binary and ternary alloys. The data indicate that aluminum, lead, molybdenum niobium, tin, titanium, tungsten, and vanadium can be used successfully to harden zirconium, and that aluminum, tin, titanium, and vanadium are particularly effective in maintaining the strength of zirconium at elevated temperatures.

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Nano-sized silica is a promising material for disease diagnosis, cosmetics and drugs. For the successful application of nano-sized material in bioscience, evaluation of nano-sized material toxicity is important. We previously found that nano-sized silica particles with a diameter of 70nm showed acute liver failure in mice. Here, we performed histological analysis of major organs such as the liver, spleen, lung, kidney, brain and heart in mice, chronically injected with 70-nm silica particles for 4weeks. Histological analysis revealed hepatic microgranulation and splenic megakaryocyte accumulation in these 70-nm silica particles treated mice, while the kidney, lung, brain and heart remained unaffected. Thus, liver and spleen appear to be the major target organs for toxicity by the chronic a...

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International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zirconium phosphate was one of the earliest inorganic ion-exchange suggested for removing strontium and cesium from aqueous nuclear waste. This paper studied ionic exchange to remove Cs-137 and Sr-90 by using different cationic of zirconium phosphate. In this case the parameters studied were the effect of temperature and ion concentration to percent up take and distribution coefficients. It is also conducted the study on column experiments to determine the breakthrough curves for Cs-137 and Sr-90. The result showed the potential of use of zirconium phosphate in radioactive waste treatment. (author)

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The electrochromatographic behavior of 25 metal ions on zirconium tungstate-impregnated papers is described. Six background electrolytes were used. On the basis of the differential mobilities of metal ions which depend on the ion-exchange properties of zirconium tungstate and the nature of complex formation with the electrolytes, some important binary and ternary separations have been achieved.

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Flame propagating through zirconium particle cloud in a small-scale vertical rectangle chamber was investigated experimentally. In the experiments, the zirconium quoted 99% purity was used and the diameter of particles was distributed 1?22 ?m. The zirconium dust was dispersed into the chamber by air flow and ignited by an electrode spark. A high-speed video camera was used to record the images of the propagating flame. Micro-thermocouples, schlieren optical system and microscopic lens were used to obtain temperature profiles and flame structure, respectively. Based on the experimental results, flame propagation characteristics and flame structure of zirconium particle cloud were analyzed. The propagation velocity of the flame is quite slow in the initial 14 ms and then accelerates to maxim...

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Beta silicon carbide is an excellent candidate semiconductor material for demanding applications in high power and high temperature electronic devices due to its high breakdown voltage, relatively large band gap, high thermal conductivity and high melting...

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According to the present invention, a joined product is at least two ceramic parts, specifically bi-element carbide parts with a bond joint therebetween, wherein the bond joint has a metal silicon phase. The bi-element carbide refers to compounds of MC, M.sub.2 C, M.sub.4 C and combinations thereof, where M is a first element and C is carbon. The metal silicon phase may be a metal silicon carbide ternary phase, or a metal silicide.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper presents the results of experimental study carried out to know whether the salicylic acid used as an additive during the precipitation of zirconium using ammonium hydroxide solution goes into the filtrate, remains in the hydrated zirconia or gets distributed between the both under the ambient conditions of precipitation. Keeping its simplicity and amenability to adopt on a routine basis, spectrophotometric method has been chosen for the purpose among the many methods available and the problems associated in determining salicylic acid in the presence of zirconium and the medial measures to circumvent the same have been brought out in detail. (author)

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The initiation and inhibition of pitting corrosion on zirconium and hafnium in aqueous solutions have been investigated by potentiodynamic, potentiostatic and galvanostatic measurements at 25/sup 0/C. Effects of Cl/sup -/, Br/sup -/and I/sup -/ have been examined over a range of salt concentrations and pH. All three halide ions cause pitting attack on the two metals, but this may be inhibited by other anions. The results show that hafnium is more easily protected against pitting than is zirconium. The data are treated by the Butler-Volmer equation to yield more information about the mechanisms of the pitting corrosion.

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Using the PMR method the interaction of zirconium and hafnium tetrachlorides with tri.tet.butylphenyl ester of 1,2- naphthoquinonediazide (2)-5-sulfonic acid is studied. The formation of MCl/sub 4/xNQD complexes is established, the equilibrium constants and thermodynamic parameters of complexing reaction are determined. The presence of rapid ligand exchange, proceeding according to associative mechanism, is detected. The rate constants and activation energies of the exchange reaction are calculated.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A method has been developed for the adsorption of Sc"I"I"I employing inorganic ion exchanger zirconium phosphosilicate by batch method. Effects of various parameters have been evaluated on the percentage adsorption of Sc"I"I"I. Separation of Sc"I"I"I from various other elements is standardized. (author)

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The kinetics of the reaction of zirconium phosphates with carbon tetrachloride in sodium and potassium chloride melt as well as the effect of temperature, gas flow, solubility and weight of the solid phase of the phosphate, and stirring of the melt on the chlorination rate has been studied. The kinetic parameters of the reaction (rate constants, activation energy, etc.) have been calculated.

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Substantial roles of precipitates such as Zr-Fe-Cr type intermetallic compounds on uniform corrosion and hydrogen pickup of zirconium alloys in pure water autoclave tests were investigated from an electrochemical point of view. This paper describes the roles on corrosion. A corrosion test on precipitate-containing and precipitate-free materials made from pure zirconium and a small quantity of iron and chromium, rest potential measurements on an intermetallic compound of Zr(FeCr){sub 2} and zirconium matrix, and a galvanic coupling test of those were performed. Results showed that corrosion behavior of zirconium alloys could be attributed to the electrochemical properties of intermetallic compounds precipitated in each alloy. Namely, the cathodic and anodic polarization characteristics were associated with anodic protection provided by the precipitates on the alloys and the precipitates degradation in ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In order to investigate the relation between the pitting corrosion and precipitated carbides, the heat treatment of specimens was carried out in two ways: Solution treatment and carbides precipitation treatment. The experiment was focused on the polarization curves of specimens immersed in HCL solution and on the microscopic analysis of the corroded specimens through a potentiodynamic method. It was found out that the intergranular and pitting corrosion occurred remarkably in 0.1N and 1N KCL solution when carbides were precipitated around the grain boundary of the 304 stain steel. The intergranular corrosion was noticed in the region of passivation and the pitting was prominent in the region of passivation break-down. The distribution of pits on the solution treated 304 stainless steel was random, while that of pits on carbides precipitated specimen was concentrated around the grain boundary in 0.1N and ...

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This paper reports the presence of face centered cubic cobalt precipitates inside tungsten carbide in nanocomposite of WC-Co synthesized by spray conversion processing. EDS was used to identify the presence and micro-diffraction was employed to determine the nature of the precipitates. There is entrapment of cobalt in tungsten carbide during the spray conversion process used to form WC/Co powder. During consolidation, at high temperatures, the cobalt attains enough mobility to precipitate inside WC. A vanadium containing compound was seen at the interfaces in samples which incorporated VC as a grain growth inhibitor. (orig.)

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cellulose casing material made by Food Products Division,. Union Carbide Corporation. tion of the anode from oxygen generated at the charging electrode. ...

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... Advanced thermal storage systems based on very high temperature solid materials such as boron carbide or graphite have been investigated for ...

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Silicon thin film with thickness in range 1000-5300 A deposited on rough Cu foil by a radio frequency magnetron sputtering is used as anode materials for Li-ion rechargeable batteries. The SEM, XRD and TEM analysis reveals that the Si thin film has a floccular nano-sized multi-crystalline structure. Li ions insertion/extraction evaluation is performed mainly with constant current charge/discharge cycling and cyclic voltammetry (CV) at room temperature. The cycleability and reversible discharge capacity are found to depend on the film thickness, and thinner films give larger accommodation capacity. A 3120 A Si film provides a reversible specific capacity over 3500 mA hg{sup -1} with excellent cycleability under 0.5 C charge/discharge rate.

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Zirconium and particularly Zr-2.5wt%Nb (Zr2.5Nb) alloy are useful for engineering bearing applications because they can be oxidized in air to form a hard surface ceramic. Oxidized zirconium (OxZr) due to its abrasion resistant ceramic surface and biocompatible substrate alloy has been used as a bearing surface in total joint arthroplasty for several years. OxZr is characterized by hard zirconium oxide (oxide) formed on Zr2.5Nb using one step thermal oxidation carried out in air. Because the oxide is only at the surface, the bulk material behaves like a metal, with high toughness. The oxide, furthermore, exhibits high adhesion to the substrate because of an oxygen-rich diffusion hardened zone (DHZ) interposing between the oxide and the substrate. In this study, we demonstrate a two step pro...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The methods of surface modification of Ti-Zr alloy by laser treatment are considered. Characteristics of laser modification without- and with surface melting and with melting in different gaseous environments and with nickel microalloying are presented. Maximum depth, hardness and corrosion resistance are observed under nickel laser alloying.

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Using an expanded nuclear data base, the activation of nitrogen, aluminum, iron, nickel, copper, zirconium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, and lead were calculated for the first wall positions of the STARFIRE and MARS conceptual fusion reactors.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The fission gas xenon bonded in bubbles, in pore, and in the lattice of mixed carbide fuels is measured by electron-probe microanalysis. Radial xenon distribution and release curves are determined and are calibrated by gas chromatography of the bonded fission gas and by burnup analysis in the respective pin sections of the irradiation experiments FR2 6A and 6C, Mol 11/K 2, and DFR 330/1. The results are correlated to the microstructure of the fuel, bonding medium, temperature, and burnup. (Auth.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In this paper a study is made of the structure and mechanical properties of the #beta# alloy system Ti-Mo-Zr-Sn (the composition of which is equivalent to the #beta# III alloy used abroad) containing different amounts of carbon. Study of the #beta#-titanium alloy containing 0.1% C revealed the presence of particles of titanium carbide. Separation of the titanium carbide promotes a reduction in impact strength, an increased tendency toward cold shortness, and poorer workability. (author).

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Systems with small sizes show significant changes compared to the bulk system. These changes are of major interest regarding the size reduction of technological applications. The hydrogen-metal system can be used as a model alloy to study small size features: shifted phase boundaries and sloped isotherms are found and, also, new materials structures. Most features can be attributed to surface- and interface contributions as well as to mechanical stress. (Abstract Copyright [2004], Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

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This is the final report of a two-year, Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). Functionally graded material is an enabling technology for lightweight body armor improvements. The objective was to demonstrate the ability to produce functionally graded ceramic-polymer and ceramic-metal lightweight armor materials. This objective involved two aspects. The first and key aspect was the development of graded-porosity boron-carbide ceramic microstructures. The second aspect was the development of techniques for liquid infiltration of lightweight metals and polymers into the graded-porosity ceramic. The authors were successful in synthesizing boron-carbide ceramic microstructures with graded porosity. These graded-porosity boron-carbide hot-pressed pieces were then successfully liquid-infiltrated in vacuum with molten aluminum at 1,300 C, and with liquid polymers at ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In the paper, the effect of Ni content, WC grain size and Mo2C addition on WC-6.25wt%TiC-9.3wt%Ni cemented carbide were investigated to improve the properties of Ni-bonded cemented carbides. The results show that the decrease of Ni content will result in the decrease of transverse rupture strength and increase of hardness; with the decrease of WC particle size, hardness increases due to the refinement of WC grains, however, the transverse rupture strength decrease due to the decrease of Ni binder thickness; Mo2C proves to be an effective grain growth inhibitor. With the increase of Mo2C content, the WC grains are refined and the hardness and transverse rupture strength are improved. Generally, when the Ni content is decreased to 8.4wt%, 13.45mm WC is used and 1.2wt% Mo2C is added, a higher...

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The electrochemical metal dissolution of 100Cr6 steel in sodium chloride solution, applying high electrolyte flow rates and high current densities, has been studied with a view to the influence of material heterogeneities such as carbide segregation lines in the steel matrix. It was shown that the presence of such segregations is responsible for the formation of troughs on the specimen surface during electrochemical dissolution. A mechanism for trough formation was proposed. A dedicated heat treatment applied to the 100Cr6 steel eliminated the carbide segregation lines and established a soft annealed, fine-grained microstructure containing globular carbides. Subsequent electrochemical dissolution did not show any development of surface irregularities as troughs. (orig.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The examination of the high-temperature properties of the alloy Alloy 800HT has shown that both the creep performance and the microstructure of the material can be purposefully set by the initial heat treatment. At the high temperatures applied, (700-900 C), a rapid softening process sets in induced by carbide precipitation, stabilization, and coarsening. This softening process causes creep velocities strongly accelerating as a function of duration of the heat treatment prior to the creep test. The identified cause of the softening effect is a change in particle size that could be verified by SEM and TEM. It is shown that two different carbide precipitate size classes are responsible for the softening effect. While the precipitates dectable by TEM become effective primarily via interactions with dislocations, the carbide precipitates detectable only by SEM contribute to a hardening of the grain boundaries and the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mixed carbide fueled driver assembly experiments will be tested in FFTF fuel driver positions as part of the National Advanced Fuel Program. The design of the experiment flow ducts must assure conformance to FFTF functional requirements in addition to service as a test vehicle for the carbide fuel irradiations. Test goals of damage fluence burnup, and fluence to burnup ratio exceed those of the standard oxide fueled drivers. As a consequence, the 20% cold worked type 316 stainless steel material of construction will experience significant irradiation induced creep and swelling. Additionally, the flow duct design must withstand the enhanced thermal transients produced by the action of carbide fuel during reactor scrams. A major FFTF functional requirement is that adjacent flow ducts do not touch each other except at the load pads. This requires a realistic analysis of the creep and swelling deformation of the flow duct ...

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The Co-doped BaTiO{sub 3} nanosized powders and ceramics were prepared via the sol-gel process. The powders and ceramics were characterized by methods of XRD, SEM and TEM. The dielectric properties of the ceramics were also determined by these methods. The influence of sintering temperature, sintering time and Co concentration on the microstructure and dielectric properties was discussed. The results revealed that the powders were in nanometer scale (30-50 nm) and were mainly composed of cubic BaTiO{sub 3} phase and small amount of BaCO{sub 3}. After sintering, both the cubic BaTiO{sub 3} and BaCO{sub 3} were transformed into tetrahedron BaTiO{sub 3}. The sintering temperatures of the Co-doped BaTiO{sub 3} ceramics decreased (about 100 deg. C) and the Curie temperatures of the ceramics were then moved to lower temperature. In addition, the dielectric constant of the ceramics doping with Co was higher than that of the pure BaTiO{sub 3} ceramics. The dielectric ...

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In this study a modified solid state synthesis (auto-ignition method) is used to form nanosized spinel type material LiMg{sub 0.05}Ni{sub 0.45}Mn{sub 1.5}O{sub 4}. This material presents a high voltage plateau at 4.75 V vs. Li/Li{sup +}. Structural and electrochemical characterisations have been performed using a wide range of techniques (TEM, neutron diffraction, galvanostatic measurements, and impedance spectroscopy). Besides, in situ XAS has been performed to monitor the evolution of Ni and Mn oxidation state during Li intercalation. The material presents an ordered cubic spinel structure, good capacity retention upon cycling (131 mAh g{sup -1} at C/10 and 117 mAh g{sup -1} at 1C) and good electronic conductivity (10{sup -6} S cm{sup -1} at RT). The simultaneous presence of Mn{sup 3+}/Mn{sup 4+} in the structure has been investigated and explained by inclusion of disordered nanodomains in the structure. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The nanosized luminescent Tb-MCM-41 (1:10) is synthesized by means of sol-gel-assisted self-assembly under basic conditions at room temperature. The results of "2"9Si-MAS NMR and XRD prove that Tb"3"+ doped Si-O framework. The HRTEM image shows that the regular uniform particles with a diameter of 10 nm possess ultralarge pore with diameter 2.0 nm, which is consistent with the result of N_2 adsorption. The BET surface area and porosity of Tb-MCM-41 (1:10) are 1127 m"2/g and 0.84 cm"3/g, respectively. The patterns of selected-area electron diffraction and XRD of Tb-MCM-41 (1:10) show an Fm3m space group in the cubic. FT-IR results show that the peaks near 970 cm"-"1 are assigned to the deformation vibration of silanol group. The as-products are calcined at 800 deg. C and the mesoporous materials possess enormous specific areas and large porosity, it shows that the mesoporous materials are ultrastable.

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Structural changes of a Ni-P amorphous alloy under focused-ion-beam (FIB) irradiation have been examined using transmission electron microscopy. On the irradiated plane, the formation of crystallographically orientated nanosized crystals (NCs), with the particle size of approximately 10 nm, was observed. A series of electron diffraction analyses have revealed that NCs have a face-centered-cubic (fcc) structure and the following orientation relationships between the NCs and the FIB direction were found. These are, irradiated plane//(111)_f_c_c and FIB direction//_f_c_c.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The "6"2Zn-"6"2Cu generator system is one of the few which yield a pure positron emitting daughter. The authors have developed a method for the preparation of this generator system following 32 MeV #alpha# particle bombardment of nickel targets. The chemical processing involves two stages: first a hydrous zirconium oxide column is used at pH 4-5 to separate the zinc and copper activities produced in the target nickel, and secondly, a conventional anion exchange column is used to retain the "6"2Zn and remove all copper activities in 2M HCl. This column serves as the "6"2Cu generator which will yield pure "6"2Cu repeatedly, free from "6"2Zn and other impurities, in a mixture of HCl and NaCl. A method is outlined also to obtain a solution of "6"2Zn using the hydrous zirconium oxide (HZO) column. "6"1Cu can be prepared as a by-product in the above procedure, but a method for the preparation of "6"1Cu alone using an 18 MeV #alpha# particle beam on a ...

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Substantial roles of precipitates such as Zr-Fe-Cr type intermetallic compounds on uniform corrosion and hydrogen pickup of zirconium alloys in pure water autoclave tests were investigated from an electrochemical point of view. In the previous paper, corrosion mechanism was elucidated by the anodic protection-precipitates degradation model. This paper describes the roles on hydrogen pickup. 633 K pure water autoclave test was performed on high purity zirconium, Zr-0.2Fe, Zr-0.2Cr, and Zr-0.1Fe-0.1Cr alloys. Hydrogen analysis after the corrosion test showed that hydrogen pickup ratio of Zr-0.2Fe alloy was about 80%. It was much higher than about 30% of pure Zr and about 10% of both Zr-0.2Cr and Zr-0.1Fe-0.1Cr alloys. Larger hydrogen content was introduced into Zr-0.2Fe alloy than the other ones by the cathodic hydrogen charging under coulombic equivalence. The precipitates at metal-oxide interface could act not only as cathodic sites in the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This patent describes the producing of a refractory metal wherein a sponge refractory metal is produced as an intermediate product by the use of magnesium with the incidental production of magnesium chloride, and wherein residual magnesium is separated from the magnesium chloride and from refractory metal to a vacuum distillation step which fractionally distills the magnesium, the magnesium chloride, and the metal sub-chlorides; the steps of: recovering fractionally distilled vapors of magnesium chloride and metal sub-chlorides from a sponge refractory metal; separately condensing the vapors as separately recovered; and recycling the separately recovered magnesium at a purity of at least about 96%.

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The incorporation of (a) Cs/Sr as simulated heat-generating isotopes contained in Purex reprocessing waste, (b) simulated actinides, and (c) simulated Purex waste in sodium zirconium phosphate (NZP) has been studied. The samples were prepared by sintering, by hot pressing and by hot isostatic pressing in metal bellows containers. The short-term chemical durability of the phosphate-based material containing Purex waste was within an order of magnitude of that for Synroc-C, as measured by 7-day MCC-1 tests at 90{degrees}C. The dissolution behavior showed evidence of re-precipitation phenomena, even after times as short as 28 days. Potential for improvement of NZP-based ceramics for HLW management is discussed. 19 refs., 4 figs., 3 tabs.

Science.gov (United States)

The TTT diagrams describing the beta to alpha isothermal transformation have been made by isothermal dilatometry for pure uranium and 21 alloys based on chromium, silicon, molybdenum, iron, aluminium, zirconium. The thermal cycle preceeding the isothermal...

Science.gov (United States)

A large double-focusing mass spectrometer was used to obtain new values for the masses of Sr/sup 86/, Sr/sup 88/, and Zr/sup 90/. Mass differences calculated from these values are found to be in better agreement with nuclear transmutation information than were previous mass spectroscopically derived values. (auth)

Science.gov (United States)

The production of water from a subterranean formation is reduced by contacting the formation with a water dispersible hydrophilic organic polymer having a molecular weight greater than 100,000 and containing carboxyl functionality and a crosslinking composition comprising water, a zirconium compound having a value of 4+, an alpha-hydroxy acid and an amine compound.

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The evaluated data testing for Si, Zr, Nb and Fe materials has been performed through the analyses of the neutron leakage spectrum from spherical assemblies measured in integral benchmark experiments with (d,t) and Cf fission neutron sources. Intercomparisons of the calculated from BROND-2, ENDF/B-6 and JENDL-3 data files with experimental results are presented.

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An austenitic alloy having good thermal stability and resistance to sodium corrosion at 700.degree. C. consists essentially of 35-45% nickel 7.5-14% chromium 0.8-3.2% molybdenum 0.3-1.0% silicon 0.2-1.0% manganese 0-0.1% zirconium 2.0-3.5% titanium 1.0-2.0% aluminum 0.02-0.1% carbon 0-0.01% boron and the balance iron.

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The electrochemical dissolution behaviour of armco-iron and of the steels C15, C45, C60 and 100Cr6 in concentrated sodium chloride media has been investigated. Anodic metal dissolution experiments have been carried out using the flow channel cell (parallel plate reactor), the rotating cylinder electrode (RCE) and the capillary cell. The microstructure of the steel has been varied through variation of carbon content and heat treatment (e.g. soft annealed with globular carbides or pearlitic). Current-efficiency values have been obtained by gravimetric measurements in the current-density range from i=5 to 60 A/cm{sup 2}. For the soft annealed steels, the divalent ferrite dissolution in combination with electroless cementite removal dominates. For the pearlitic steels, the occurrence of oxygen evolution electronically conductive metal carbides or trivalent ferrite dissolution, depending on the current density applied, was detected. Microstructure ...

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Safety and environmental assessments have been made of conceptual fusion power plant designs employing silicon carbide composites (SiC/SiC) as the first wall and blanket structure material. These have used similar analysis methods to earlier studies of designs based on vanadium alloy or low-activation martensitic steel, allowing direct comparisons. The very low short-term activation of silicon carbide results in an almost insignificant level of decay heat in postulated loss of coolant accidents, and a lower {gamma}-dose rate on the timescale of relevance to handling for maintenance operations. However on the longer time-scale, of interest in possible recycling operations, decommissioning and waste management, SiC/SiC appears to perform no better than vanadium alloy or low-activation martensitic steel, due in part to the activation of impurities in a realistic composition. Furthermore, its increased neutron transparency may result in higher ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Neutron irradiation embrittlement of reactor pressure vessel (RPV) steels is one of the critical issues on aging management for long term operation of nuclear power plants. Mechanistic understanding of embrittlement is a key to accurate prediction of embrittlement, especially after long term operation where the mechanical test data are sparse. Since matrix hardening is the source of the embrittlement, we focus on matrix hardening of A533B bainitic pressure vessel steel. Bainitic matrix is composed of lath structure made by ferrite and carbides, therefore it is important to understand how this structure affects hardening behavior, and to understand irradiation response of each phase. As the typical dimension of lath structure of A533B is about one micron, nanoindentation technique is suitable for the estimation of hardening of each phase. MV ion accelerators were used for controlled irradiation because MeV ion irradiation can produce defects to the depth greater ...

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In support of the efforts to apply ceramics to advanced heat engines, a study is being performed of the performance of ceramics at the ring/cylinder interface of advanced (low heat rejection) engines. The objective of the study, managed by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, is to understand the basic mechanisms controlling the wear of ceramics and thereby identify means for applying ceramics effectively. Attempts to operate three different zirconias, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, and plasma-sprayed ceramic coatings without lubrication have not been successful because of excessive friction and high wear rates. Silicon carbide and silicon nitride perform well at ambient temperatures with fully formulated mineral oil lubrication, but are limited to temperatures of 500F because of the lack of suitable liquid lubricants for higher temperatures.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Synthesis, morphology, structural and optical characteristics of SiC NWs and SiC/C nanocomposites with an inverse opal lattice have been investigated. The samples were prepared by carbothermal reduction of silica (SiC NWs) and by thermo-chemical treatment of opal matrices (SiC/C) filled with carbon compounds which was followed by silicon dioxide dissolution. It was shown that the nucleation of SiC NWs occurs at the surface of carbon fibers felt. It was observed three preferred growth direction of the NWs: [111], [110] and [112]. HRTEM studies revealed the mechanism of the wires growth direction change. SiC/C- HRTEM revealed in the structure of the composites, except for silicon carbide, graphite and amorphous carbon, spherical carbon particles containing concentric graphite shells (onion-like particles).

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Microcrystalline silicon carbide ({mu}c-SiC) was prepared at low substrate temperatures using Hot Wire chemical vapor deposition (HWCVD). High crystalline volume fractions were achieved at high hydrogen dilution and high deposition pressure. Without intentional doping, such material shows high dark conductivity and high optical absorption below the band gap. The material prepared at low deposition pressure or low hydrogen dilution, on the other hand, shows much lower conductivity and sub-gap absorption, but high spin densities up to 5 x 10{sup 19} cm{sup -3}. This high absorption can be attributed to free carriers, different to {mu}c-Si:H where a correlation between the sub-gap absorption and the spin density is observed.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In this work AISI 1045 steel were duplex treated via plasma nitriding of chromized layer. Samples were pack chromized by using a powder mixture consisting of ferrochromium, ammonium chloride and alumina at 1273K for 5h. The samples were then plasma-nitrided for 5h at 803K and 823K, in a gas mixture of 75%N2+25%H2. The treated specimens were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and Vickers micro-hardness test. The thickness of chromized layer before nitriding was about 8mm and it was increased after plasma nitriding. According to XRD analysis, the chromized layer was composed of chromium and iron carbides. Plasma nitriding of chromized layer resulted in the formation of chromium and iron nitrides and carbides. The hardness of the duplex layer...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The study reports the identification of different organic acids that are formed during the pyrohydrolysis of mixed carbide of uranium and plutonium using ion chromatography (IC). The identification of organic acids present in the pyrohydrolysis distillate is required to carry out interference free analysis of Cl and F. The study describes three stage isocratic separations with NaOH eluents having concentrations 2 mM, 10 mM and 50 mM respectively in order to separate and identify both aliphatic and aromatic acids. The present investigation identified formic, acetic, propionic, butyric, tartaric and oxalic acids in the distillate, however, aromatic acids could not be identified. (author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract A series of polypropylene carbonate (PPC)/ZnO nanocomposite films with different ZnO contents were prepared via a solution blending method. The morphological structures, thermal properties, oxygen permeability, water sorption, and antibacterial properties of the films were investigated as a function of ZnO concentration. While all of the composite films with less than 5 wt % ZnO exhibited good dispersion of ZnO in the PPC matrix, FTIR and SEM results revealed that solution blending did not lead to a strong interaction between PPC and unmodified ZnO. As such, poor dispersion was induced in the composite films with a high ZnO content. By incorporating inorganic ZnO filler nanoparticles, the diffusion coefficient, water uptake in equilibrium, and oxygen permeability decreased as the ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Nanocrystalline MnFe"2O"4 ferrite was prepared by using autocombustion technique (flash). The microstructure and magnetic properties are studied. The results of XRD and TEM clarified that, this ferrite is nanosized with particle size (39 nm). Magnetic measurements showed a ferromagnetic behavior with T"C = 613 K, the saturation magnetization M"s = 13.71 emu/g, remanent magnetization M"r = 0.1694 emu/g and, coercivity H"c = 25.6 Oe. Natural material, egg white used as an aqueous medium to extend prepare nanoparticles better than other chemical interesting materials.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nanosized CaSnO{sub 3} is synthesized by a hydrothermal process and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM observation shows the sample has a porous flowerlike morphology. The electrochemical results exhibit that the stable and reversible capacity of 547 mAh g{sup -1} is obtained after 50 cycles at 60 mA g{sup -1} (0.1 C) and the corresponding charge capacity is determined to be 316 mAh g{sup -1} at the current density of 2.5 C. Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy data are analyzed to complement the galvanostatic results. The observed excellent performance is attributed to the porous structure and large surface area of flowerlike CaSnO{sub 3}.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We explore a novel phenomenon of focused ion beam (FIB) induced bending of carbon nanopillars or cantilever structures. The bending occurs towards the ion beam during scanning. The explanation of this bending has been sought on the basis of a model which considers temperature rise and gradients caused by the impinging ion beam. The process is controllable and reversible, which makes it highly suitable for in situ manipulation to make desired 3D shapes by the piecewise bending of the nanopillars and cantilever structures during their fabrication using electron beam or FIB chemical vapor deposition (EB-CVD or FIB-CVD). Its usefulness in the fabrication of nanosize mechanical components has been demonstrated by making a branch structure from a single cantilever.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Theoretical assessment on the chromatographic {sup 99m}Tc generator preparation using (n, {gamma}) {sup 99}Mo produced ex-natural molybdenum was carried out. The relationship between the neutron flux for MoO{sub 3} target activation, Mo-content or Mo adsorption capacity of column packing material, {sup 99m}Tc pertechnetate concentration and/or {sup 99m}Tc radioactivity of eluate was established. The reasonably lower limit of neutron flux of reactor and Molybdenum content of column packing material were found out to estimate the production of portable chromatographic generators available for nuclear medicine application. The concentration of {sup 99m}Tc pertechnetate eluate of low {sup 99m}Tc concentration using the column elution technique was also evaluate theoretically and conducted successfully in practice. Three options of {sup 99m}Tc generator using Titanium-Molybdate, Zirconium-Molybdate and Zirconium Oxide as generator column-packing ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The cold-worked Zr-2.5%Nb alloy is used as material for the pressure tubes in CANDU nuclear reactors. During the service life in reactor, diffusion of hydrogen and/or deuterium in the pressure tubes wall occur. Below a certain temperature, a stable hydride of zirconium is formed, as a brittle phase which can lead to catastrophic failures. For this reason, it is very important to be able to investigate the hydrogen effect on the micro structural properties of zirconium alloys. In the present paper a non-destructive testing technique is used, known as ultrasonic spectral analysis. When an ultrasonic signal traverses a medium, the frequency components associated with the input signal are altered. By frequency analysing the reflected signals, it is possible to study and compare the material properties. The two major parameters measured in ultrasonic spectroscopy are the attenuation and the velocity of the waves. Attenuation is determined by the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A zirconium alloy comprising from 0.8 to 1.6wt% of Sn, from 0.17 to 0.25wt% of Fe, from 0.15 to 0.25wt% of Cr and from 0.01 to 0.08wt% of Ni and Si at a concentration of 120ppm or lower as an impurity and the balance of Zr is melted into cast pieces and then subjected to an #beta# annealing. It is controlled so as to satisfy Fe + Cr + Ni #<=# 0.52wt%. Then, rolling and annealing are applied so that the total heat injection amount #SIGMA#A_i to the materials is within a range of from 1 x 10"-"1"9 to 1 x 10"-"1"7. #SIGMA#A_i = #SIGMA#t_i #centre dot# exp(-Q/RT_i), in which t_i represents processing time (hour) at an ith heat treatment step after the #beta# annealing, T_i represents a processing temperature (K) in the step i. Q represents an activating energy, R represents a gas constant, and Q/R 40,000. (I.N.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ten different alloys of zirconium have been tested with regard to the effect of irradiation on their mechanical properties and their sensitivity to environmentally induced failure. Two different environments were used: iodine vapour and liquid cesium with an addition of 2% cadmium. The neutron dose was 10"2"1n/cm"2 (E>1MeV) and the irradiation temperature was about 300 degrees C. All alloy additions increased the irradiation hardening. Especially notable was the large effect of titanium and tin on irradiation hardening. A limited amount of transmission electron microscopy was carried out in order to find an explanation to the effects. The testing in different environments showed that there is no clear correlation between environmental sensitivity and yield stress. For materials of similar yield stress an alloyed material tends to be more sensitive to environmental cracking than a material which only contains oxygen as an impurity. There also seems to be an ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In support of the efforts to apply ceramics in advanced heat engines, a study was made of the sliding performance of ceramics at the ring/cylinder interface of low heat rejection engines. The objective was to understand the basic mechanisms controlling the wear of candidate ceramics and thereby identify means for applying these ceramics effectively. Attempts to operate three different zirconias, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, and several plasma-sprayed ceramic coatings without lubrication were unsuccessful because of high friction and high wear rates. Experiments using a polyalphaolefin lubricant at temperatures to 260 C identified several combinations having wear rates in the general range likely to be acceptable for engines. Plasma-sprayed coatings of chromium oxide and hypersonic powder flame sprayed coatings of cobalt-bonded tungsten carbide performed particularly well as ring coatings. Similar performance was obtained with these ring ...

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An advanced ceramic dome cavity receiver is discussed which heats pressurized gas to temperatures above 1800/sup 0/F (1000/sup 0/C) for use in solar Brayton power systems of the dispersed receiver/dish or central receiver type. Optical, heat transfer, structural, and ceramic material design aspects of the receiver are reported and the development and experimental demonstration of a high-temperature seal between the pressurized gas and the high-temperature silicon carbide dome material is described.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This book deals specifically with the development of new processes of converting coal into useful chemical feedstocks. The major topic in this volume is the generation of syngas and its catalytic conversion to chemicals via the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. Describes processes involved in conversion, recent catalytic developments, and the commercially important Sasol process. Also includes chapters on the carbide process and potential of future developments in the field.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objective of the investigation was to study the feasibility of applying continuous casting steel 100Cr6 (SAE 52100) for bearing balls. It was found that two of three continuous casted steel batches have longer or at least similar rolling contact fatigue lifetimes compared to one ingot casted batch. For one of the continuous casted batches, the rolling contact fatigue lifetime was 30% less. The micro- and macrostructure and the residual stresses below the surface of the balls were comparable. There is also no obvious difference between the four batches in the metallurgical parameters like contents of oxygen, titanium and sulfur as well as in the distribution of carbides and their network. The reason for the shorter lifetime of one batch finally was found to be due not to the continuous casting process itself. There was a difference in the cross section of the different casting moulds, and by this in the speed of solidification. As a consequence an increased ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The method of programmed thermodesorption has been used to study the forms of hydrogen adsorption in ZrNiHsub(x) hydride. It is shown that high concentration of the hydrogen, which extracted from hydride in the temperature range of 240-260 deg C results in appearance of ''reverse'' peak. Charge of hydride adsorption properties during its oxidation-reduction treatment is studied. Comparison with spectra of hydrogen thermodesorption from the surface of Ni/ZrO_2 deposited catalyst and zirconium oxide is carried out.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The manufacturing of TRIGA fuel rods with low enriched uranium follows in principle the same route as high-enriched uranium. The high purity of the primary metals (uranium, zirconium and erbium) is important for determining the equilibrium metal-hydrogen phases. The impurities from the metal, on the surface and from hydrogen may have an important influence on the hydriding process. This paper presents the aspects of the fuel contamination with oxygen during the manufacturing process of the low enriched uranium fuel. The continuous control of the oxygen concentration in the working zone ensures avoidance of the accidental contamination. Key words: manufacturing, fuel, oxygen, contamination. (authors)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Instrumental neutron activation analysis is used for simultaneously determination of macrocomponents in ferroelectric materials LLZT. Pb, Zr, Ti have been determined by "2"0"3Pb, "8"9Zr and "4"8Sc nuclides created by fast neutron (14.5 MeV) activation. Application of paraffine as neutron moderator and reflector allows to simultaneously determine lanthanum by "1"4"0La nuclide. It has been shown that zirconium, titanium and lanthanum can be determined with the accuracy of #+-#0.1 mas. % and lead - #+-#0.7 mas. %.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Scanning ion microscopy with polarization analysis (SIMPA) is used to study the spin-resolved surface magnetic structure of nano-sized magnetic systems. SIMPA is utilized for in situ topographic and spin-resolved magnetic domain imaging as well as for focused ion beam (FIB) etching of desired structures in magnetic or non-magnetic systems. Ultra-thin Co films are deposited on surfaces of Si(1 0 0) substrates, and ultra-thin, tri-layered, bct Fe(1 0 0)/Mn/bct Fe(1 0 0) wedged magnetic structures are deposited on fcc Pd(1 0 0) substrates. SIMPA experiments clearly show that ion-induced electrons emitted from magnetic surfaces exhibit non-zero electron spin polarization (ESP), whereas electrons emitted from non-magnetic surfaces such as Si and Pd exhibit zero ESP, which can be used to calibrate sputtering rates in situ. We report on new, spin-resolved magnetic microstructures, such as magnetic 'C' states and magnetic vortices, found at surfaces of FIB patterned ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In association with periodic inspection of CANDU nuclear power plant components, Canadian Standards Association issued CSA N285.8 in 2005 as technical requirements for in-service evaluation of zirconium alloy pressure tubes in CANDU reactors. This first version, CSA N285.8 involves procedures for, firstly, the evaluation of pressure tube flaws, secondly, the evaluation of pressure tube to calandria tube contact and, thirdly, the assessment of a reactor core, and material properties and derived quantities. The evaluation of pressure tube flaws includes delayed hydride cracking evaluation the procedures of which are stipulated based on the existing delayed hydride cracking models. For example, the evaluation of flaw-tip hydride precipitation during reactor cooldown involves a procedure to calculate the equilibrium hydrogen equivalent concentration in solution at the flaw tip, Htipas follows: Htip=Hfexp[- (VH delta no.)/RT], where Hf is the total bulk hydrogen ...

Science.gov (United States)

Silicon carbide (SiC) based electronic devices are of great importance for applications under the condition of high temperature, high power and high radiation. Schottky diodes of Palladium/SiC are good candidates for hydrogen and hydrocarbon gas sensors at elevated temperature. The detection sensibility of the diodes has been found heavily temperature dependent. In this work, the electrical and chemical properties of Pd/SiC Schottky contacts were studied by XPS and AES at different annealing temperatures. Schottky diodes were made by depositing ultra-thin palladium films onto a silicon carbide substrate. No significant change in the Schottky barrier height of the Pd/SiC contact was found in the temperature range of 300-673K. Palladium diffusion into SiC and the formation of palladium silicides were observed at room temperature and became significant at 300^oC and higher temperature. The mechanism of diffusion and reaction at the Pd/SiC ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The influence of high temperature thermal ageing treatments on the development of intercrystalline creep damage in two variants of Alloy 800 has been investigated. Ageing up to 3000 h and creep testing were carried out at 800 and 900 C. The high temperature behaviour of the 800HT variant is discussed with reference to the effect of heat treatments on the microstructure. The metallographic methods by which the creep damage was quantitatively determined are described. The growth rate of intercrystalline microcracks was described using a statistical model and the dependence of crack growth rate on the thermal history for both 800HT and 800H was determined. The carbide precipitation and growth processes were determined as functions of the exposure temperature and duration. The results showed the three characteristic stages, precipitation, growth and coarsening (Ostwald ripening). The largest increase in the intergranular creep damage was found in Alloy 800HT within the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A technique for following sialon formation in situ by high temperature X-ray diffraction (HT-XRD) was developed. The composition chosen for study was an yttrium #alpha#-sialon with x=0.4. Powder compacts containing silicon nitride, aluminum nitride and yttria powders were pre-sintered at 1350 C and then studied by HT-XRD at temperatures between 1450 and 1580 C and nitrogen pressures of 0.11 MPa. The furnace was made from graphite coated with porous silicon nitride/silicon carbide. The coating prevented silicon carbide formation in the sample up to 1600 C. X-ray diffraction results show the formation of a Y_1_0Al_2Si_3O_1_8N_4 phase at 1350 C, which dissolved to form #alpha#-sialon and other phases at higher temperatures. The amounts of #alpha#-sialon formed are similar to the amounts reported by other authors. An empirical method was used for the calculation of activation energy for the silicon nitride to #alpha#-sialon transformation and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Experimental discussions were given on effect of V and W addition on the high temperature strength properties of 12% Cr-15% Mn austenite steels. The test samples were added with W at 0% to 3.5% and V at 0% to 0.5% in addition to C and N, and were given aging treatment or solution treatment. This paper describes the following matters on the results of high-temperature strength measurements and structural observation: A remarkable trend was observed that M23 Cb type carbides precipitate in the aging treatment, wherein aging hardening appears prominently which is attributable to ultra-fine deposits of vanadium nitride (VN) in the V-added material; the V addition is very effective in increasing the high-temperature tensile strength and creep fracture strength as compared with single W addition, wherein the said carbides that accelerate the precipitation as a result of the V addition make a large contribution, in addition to that by ultra-fine VN ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The development of a silicon carbide (SiC) heat exchanger is a critical step in the development of the Externally-Fired Combined Cycle (EFCC) power system. SiC is the only material that provides the necessary combination of resistance to creep, thermal shock, and oxidation. While the SiC structure materials provide the thermomechanical and thermophysical properties needed for an efficient system, the mechanical properties of the SiC tubes are severely degraded through corrosion by the coal combustion products. To obtain the necessary service life of thousands of hours at temperature, a protective coating is needed that is stable with both the SiC tube and the coal combustion products, resists erosion from the particle laden gas stream, is thermal shock resistant, adheres to SiC during repeated thermal shocks (start-up, process upsets, shut-down), and allows the EFCC system to be cost competitive. This demanding set of technical performance and cost drivers was used ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The surface layer optimized in resistance of corrosion and wear has been obtained by W + C dual implantation on H13 steel. The electrochemical polarization measurements show that the peak current density I_D is increased and then saturated with increasing of voltage scanning loops. The I_D is 100 times smaller than that of H13 steel, and 2-3 times smaller than that of tungsten. Then influence of dual implantation order on corrosion resistance is also studied. The I_D for W_5C_8 implanted first with W is half of that for C_5W_5 implanted first with C. The corrosion resistance structure of the samples after corrosion is observed by SEM. The X-ray analysis indicates that the structure consists of disperse phases of WC, W_2C, FeW, Fe_2W, FeW_2C and iron carbides. It is shown from Auger analysis that the optimum complex layer for corrosion resistance consists of thin carbon film on surface, disperse phases of these metal compounds in middle and then iron ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carbon nanofiber (CNF) supported cobalt oxide composites as high-capacity anode materials were prepared through a facile, effective method for potential use in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The effects of the calcining temperature on the crystallinity, grain size, specific surface area of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} and phase transformation from Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} to CoO were studied in detail. Both the specific surface area and CNF content in CNF-cobalt oxide composites strongly affect the electrochemical performance of these series composites. The CNF-Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} composite with 24.3% CNF pyrolyzed at 500 deg. C in Ar shows an excellent cycling performance, retaining a specific capacity of 881 mAh g{sup -1} beyond 100 cycles. Homogeneous deposition and distribution of nanosized Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles on the surface of CNF can stabilize the electronic and ionic conductivity as well as the morphology of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} phase, which may be the main reason for ...

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Ultraviolet (UV) photoirradiation of Ag(I) compounds in the presence of an aqueous Triton X-100 solution has been exploited for the first time to prepare reproducible yellow silver hydrosol. The evolution of nanosized silver particles has been examined critically under the influence of different anions/ligands. Hence, time dependent evolution of silver hydrosol from different silver compounds in micelle via photochemical reduction is observed. Anions/ligands of precursor salts have been found to show profound influence (due to electron scavenging property, solubility, stability etc.) on the evolution route and efficiency of photochemical reduction of Ag(I) to Ag(O) in micelle and thereby classification of silver compounds becomes possible. Kinetic results reveal that the formation of silver particles proceeds via autocatalytic growth mechanism. The observed variation in rate constant values for the evolution of nanoparticles from different silver compounds have ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In this study, silver nanoparticles were formed on a natural macroporous matrix, the stem of rice-paper plant, by reducing Ag{sup +} in aqueous solution through in situ processing without using any other stabilizers. The pores of the matrix, with their size of about 100 {mu}m, were thought to act as reaction compartments for the nucleation and growth of silver nanoparticles, and the control of nucleation of silver crystal during the reduction reaction was found to be important to the successful formation of nanosized silver particles onto the matrix. The diameter and amount of resultant silver particles can be controlled by changing the reaction conditions. Under optimized conditions, the content of silver particles in the matrix can reach as high as 1.8 wt% with the particle diameters being kept below 100 nm. The anti-microbial activities in terms of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for the silver nanoparticle composites against Escherichia coli and Candida ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The synthesis of narrowly dispersed nanocrystalline TiO_2 was investigated with a surfactant aided solvothermal synthetic method in toluene solutions. When a sufficient amount of titanium isopropoxide, Ti[OCH(CH_3)_2]_4 (TIP), was added to the solution, the shapes of TiO_2 nanoparticles changed from spheres to rods. The aggregated microstructures of the nano-sized TiO_2 in systems of spheres, rods, and mixtures of spheres and rods was studied using TEM. The morphological shape of the aggregation was described in terms of the fractal dimensions. We used a box-counting method to get the fractal dimension of these systems. The fitted fractal dimensions for spheres, sphere/rod mixtures, and rods are D = 1.54, D = 1.81, and D = 1.89, respectively. The fractal dimension changed from 1.54 to 1.9 with the TIP/toluene ratio, indicating that the growth mechanism for aggregations showed different behaviors.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For rational use of energy resources, the process technology which allows harmonization and multiplication of conflicting characteristics was developed for development of new ceramic system materials. This paper summarizes the result in fiscal 1997. On a structural reaction process among creation technologies of ultra-reliable structure, study was made on structure control and hot-working technology through atmosphere control in ceramics synthesis. On basic technology for analysis and evaluation, study was made on the effect of particle bridging on strengthening and toughening of ceramic materials. Study was also made on a toughness expression mechanism, FEM model analysis of particle bridging, and crack growth resistance of ceramics. On control of solid solution precipitation, new alumina ceramics with high strength, hardness and wear resistance was obtained by transgranularly precipitating nano-size particles from a fine-grain high-density matrix through an ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This work has been undertaken with a view to study the effect of lanthanum content on properties of PLZT ceramics. The polycrystalline complex compounds of PLZT with Pb{sub 1-x}La{sub x}(Zr{sub 0.40}Ti{sub 0.60}){sub 1-x/4}O{sub 3}, +10% PbO formula were prepared from the nano-size individual oxides powders by hot-pressed process. Transparent PLZT (x/40/60) bulk ceramics with pure tetragonal phase was obtained. The studies of the microstructures, dielectric and ferroelectric properties of the ceramics were carried out. The experiment results showed that when La content increased from 7 to 13 mol.%, the grain size increased from 2 to 7 {mu}m. La content also effects the dielectric property obviously, the dielectric constant increased with La content increasing. Moreover, the ferroelectric properties are sensitive to the variation of La content.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The magnetic separation technology using sub-microsized ferromagnetic particle is indispensable in many areas of medical biosciences. For example, ferromagnetic particles (200-500 nm) are widely used for cell sorting in stem cell research with the use of cell surface-specific antigens. Nanosized ferromagnetic particles (10-20 nm) have been suggested as more suitable in drug delivery studies given their efficiency of tissue penetration, however, the magnetic separation method for them has not been established. One of the major reasons is that magnetic force acting on the object particles decreases drastically as a particle diameter becomes small. In this study, magnetic force acting on the targets was enhanced by the combination of superconducting magnet and the filter consisting of ferromagnetic particle. By doing so, we confirmed that Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} of 20 nm in diameter was trapped in the magnetic filter under an external magnetic field of 0.5 T. Fe{sub 3}O{sub ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mixed Uranium Plutonium Carbide ((U, Pu) C), in the form of pellets encapsulated in stainless steel tubes is the fuel for Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) at Kalpakkam. For the fabrication of fuel for enlarging the core of this reactor, high burn up plutonium is used. The external exposure in these labs was significantly higher than that with low burn up Pu fuel. Dose evaluation to the organs was carried out using experimental TLDs during various operations of FBTR fuel fabrication to study the dose distribution pattern. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A study was made of the variation in strength characteristics of group IV transition metal carbon nitrides alloyed with carbides or group V metal nitrides. A complex solid solution of titanium-niobium carbonitride was preliminarily synthesized to a homogeneous equilibrium state and then crushed. The calculated quantity of binder metal was added as elemental powders, the mixture was vibration ball milled in ethanol and the plasticized charge was used to press experimental specimens for mechanical testing. The studies showed that the high-temperature strength properties of the new cermet are superior to standard type KNT. The material is thus promising for use in the manufacture of tools. 8 references, 3 figures.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A set of materials property data for potential wear resistant materials was collected. These materials are designated for use as the ''core'' materials in the Fibrous Monolith structure. The material properties of hardness, toughness, thermal conductivity and cost were selected as determining factors for material choice. Data for these four properties were normalized, and weighting factors were assigned for each property to establish priority and evaluate the effects of priority fluctuation. Materials were then given a score based on the normalized parameters and weighting values. Using the initial estimates for parameter priority, the highest ranking material was tungsten carbide, with diamond as the second ranked material. Several materials were included in the trade study, and five were selected as promising ''core'' materials to include in this effort. These materials are tungsten ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Olfactory tract has been demonstrated to be an important portal for inhaled solid nanoparticle transportation into the central nervous system (CNS). We have previously demonstrated that intranasally instilled Fe_2O_3 nanoparticles could transport into the CNS via olfactory pathway. In this study, we investigated the neurotoxicity and size effect of repeatedly low-dose (130 #mu#g) intranasal exposure of nano- and submicron-sized Fe_2O_3 particles (21 nm and 280 nm) to mice. The biomarkers of oxidative stress, activity of nitric oxide synthases and release of monoamine neurotransmitter in the brain were studied. Our results showed that significant oxidative stress was induced by the two sizes of Fe_2O_3 particles. The activities of GSH-Px, Cu,Zn-SOD, and cNOS significantly elevated and the total GSH and GSH/GSSG ratio significantly decreased in the olfactory bulb and hippocampus after the nano- and submicron-sized Fe_2O_3 particle treatment (p < 0.05). The ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Grain refinement behavior of copper alloys cast in permanent molds was investigated. This is one of the least studied subjects in copper alloy castings. Grain refinement is not widely practiced for leaded copper alloys cast in sand molds. Aluminum bronzes and high strength yellow brasses, cast in sand and permanent molds, were usually fine grained due to the presence of more than 2% iron. Grain refinement of the most common permanent mold casting alloys, leaded yellow brass and its lead-free replacement EnviroBrass III, is not universally accepted due to the perceived problem of hard spots in finished castings and for the same reason these alloys contain very low amounts of iron. The yellow brasses and Cu-Si alloys are gaining popularity in North America due to their low lead content and amenability for permanent mold casting. These alloys are prone to hot tearing in permanent mold casting. Grain refinement is one of the solutions for reducing this problem. However, to use this ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The reverse micelle catalyst preparation method has been used to prepare catalysts on four supports: magnesium oxide, carbon, alumina- titania and steamed Y zeolite. These catalysts were not as active as a reference catalyst prepared during previous contracts to Union Carbide Corp. This catalyst was supported on steamed Y zerolite support and was impregnated by a pore-filling method using a nonaqueous solvent. Additional catalysts were prepared via pore- filling impregnation of steamed Y zeolites. These catalysts had levels of cobalt two to three and a half times as high as the original Union Carbide catalyst. On a catalyst volume basis they were much more active than the previous catalyst; on an atom by atom basis the cobalt was about of the same activity, i.e., the high cobalt catalysts` cobalt atoms were not extensively covered over and deactivated by other cobalt atoms. The new, high activity, Y zerolite catalysts were not as stable as the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The cross section and activity profile of different radioisotopes produced by #alpha#-induced nuclear reaction on natural zirconium, have been obtained by stacked foil activation using 40 MeV #alpha#-particles from Variable Energy Cyclotron (VEC) machine at Calcutta. The activity profile would be used to study the surface loss of zircaloy materials of engineering components by thin layer activation (TLA) technique. Generally, isotopes with suitable #gamma#-rays and long half-lives are the most useful in TLA technique, e.g., "9"2Nb, "9"5"gNb and "9"5Zr. (author). 2 refs., 1 tab.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stable boiloff of core water during a severe LWR accident, that is, boiloff driven only by the decay power generated below the water level, is tractable analytically and is relatively insensitive to axial power distribution. As might be expected, calculated accident event times are sensitive to the fidelity of the decay power model. During later stages of boiloff, heat transfer or transport of energy from above the water level to the residual water can result in an unstable condition during which the boiloff rate increases greatly. The unstable boiloff phenomenon illustrates the highly nonlinear influence of core heat transfer during meltdown and emphasizes the great accuracy requirements which attend the modeling of the accident during periods of enhanced heat transfer when significant zirconium oxidation is possible.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zirconia-toughened sialon composites have been fabricated using conventional hot-pressing techniques. The fracture toughness and microstructure were determined for CeO_2- and Y_2O_3-stabilized ZrO_2 additives and also as a function of volume percent ZrO_2. The Yttria system showed a linear increase in fracture toughness with increasing volume fraction zirconia content while the ceria-stabilized system exhibited a peak in fracture toughness at 20 vol% ZrO_2 content. The fracture toughness at 800 C was measured and correlated with the microstructure. High-temperature stability was determined and it was found that the deleterious nitride phases of zirconium could be precluded from the microstructure.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In order to improve the well-known short operational life time of BF3 counters, three potential adsorbents for impurity gases (graphite, activated charcoal and a zirconium-aluminum mixture) were introduced into BF3 counters in the form of coating on the aluminum cathode surface. Tests in el fields revealed that a partial coating of activated charcoal provides the best result. The improvement of their operational life in el fields was about three orders of magnitude in terms of tolerable exposure. Many counters with a partial coating of activated charcoal were further tested from the following viewpoints: background noise, vibration and shock, el pulse discrimination, operational life in a neutron field and non-operational in-reactor exposure life. The results were satisfactory for reactor control and protection usage. (author).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ionizing radiations that differ in number, size, and distribution of energy deposition events might be expected to cause different effects for the same absorbed dose. Furthermore, microdosimetry calculations suggest that large variations in biological effectiveness might be expected for internally deposited alpha-emitting radionuclides for the same absorbed dose, depending upon the specific activity and spatial distribution of the sources in tissue. The study described in this article was designed to demonstrate these phenomena in vitro. Cultured Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1 BH4) cells were exposed in vitro to inert, insoluble ceramic microspheres in zirconium dioxide labeled with "2"3"9Pu. The average exit energy of the 5.15 MeV alpha particle was calculated to be 4.3 MeV. Exposure times varied from four to seven hours to achieve the desired dose level.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The present results indicate that maximum selectivity to acrylic acid can be reached over V-P-Zr-O catalysts. When the hydrocarbon concentration is 5.1 vol.% the selectivity is about 30% at quite high paraffin conversion. Conclusively, some explanations to the observed facts can be given. The V-P-O catalyst promotion with lanthanum by means of mechanochemical treatment is distinguished by the additive uniform spreading all over the matrix surface. Such twophase system is highly active in propane conversion (lanthanum oxide) and further oxidation of the desired products. The similar properties are attributed to V-P-Bi-La-O catalyst. Bismuth, tellurium and zirconium additives having clearly defined acidic properties provoke the surface acidity strengthening and make easier desorption of the acidic product (acrylic acid) from the surface lowering its further oxidation. Additionally, since bismuth and zirconium are able to form phosphates and, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To clarify the acidic and alkaline Intergranular Stress Corrosion Cracking (IGSCC) mechanism of thermally treated alloy 690 (alloy 690 TT) and shot peened alloy 800 (alloy 800 SP), C-ring tests were conducted in deaerated HCl solutions and in deaerated NaOH solutions at 350degC, compared with the acidic and the alkaline IGSCC susceptibilities of mill-annealed alloy 600 (alloy 600 MA), full-sensitized one (alloy 600 FS) and thermally treated one (alloy 600 TT). Grain boundary characteristics, such as chromium depleted zone and chromium carbide precipitation, were examined using modified Huey test and Transmission Electron Microscopy. Potential-pH diagram for Ni, Cr, Fe-H{sub 2}O system at 350degC was constructed and the solubilities of NiO, Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} were also calculated to evaluate the stability of oxide films which were formed on the surfaces of alloy 690, 800 and 600. Under the acidic condition, the IGSCC susceptibility of alloy 800 ...

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In this paper, the influence of plasma nitriding at temperature 720 deg. C for 20 h on the surface microstructure and interface microstructure of electroplated chromium coating was investigated. In these conditions, interdiffusion, mixing and reaction phenomena of elements originating from the substrate and coating material are more likely to occur, thus increasing the bonding strength between the coating and carbon steel substrate. The change of the structures from the substrate side to the coating surface, and the effect of the substrate steel on the interface structure were studied by cross-sectional transmission electron microscope observation (XTEM). The nitride layer formed on the surface was analyzed by X-ray diffraction method (XRD). After treatment at above conditions a 6-7 {mu}m thick nitride compound layer was formed in surface region and the same thick carbide compound layer was also formed in the interface region between electroplated chromium coating ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Microstructure characterization is important for controlling the quality of laser welding. In the present work, a detailed microstructure characterization by transmission electron microscopy was carried out on the laser welding cast Ni-based superalloy K418 turbo disk and alloy steel 42CrMo shaft and an unambiguous identification of phases in the weldment was accomplished. It was found that there are {gamma}-FeCrNiC austenite solid solution dendrites as the matrix, (Nb, Ti) C type MC carbides, fine and dispersed Ni{sub 3} Al {gamma}' phase as well as Laves particles in the interdendritic region of the seam zone. A brief discussion was given for their existence based on both kinetic and thermodynamic principles.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fatigue tests were accomplished with a series of specimens doped with trace elements of a hardened Fe-Ni-Cr alloy, cast and hardened with intermetallic phases for determining the influence of these elements on the high temperature strength properties. The results of extensive fatigue tests show that even small contents of Te, Bi, Se, Pb, Tl and Zn considerably influence the life and creep processes especially after longer running periods, when added individually or combinedly. In contrast to this, the fatigue ductility is reduced by trace element additions even with short running periods. The order in which the metallic trace elements influence the fatigue properties nearly correlates with earlier work concerning Ni- and Co-superalloys. (orig.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A thermodynamic analysis of the behaviour of Alloy 800 in helium based atmospheres relevant to the High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactor indicates that, depending upon the precise gas composition, oxidation and carburisation, or carburisation alone may be expected. The prime influence appears to be the moisture level. The morphology and structure of the reaction products are discussed. It is shown that the 'reactive' elements chromium, manganese, titanium and silicon are concentrated in the oxide scale which is normally duplex in structure. Aluminium oxide is formed at grain boundaries and in an internal oxidation zone together with titanium and sometimes silicon. In carburising conditions, mixed titanium-chromium carbides are formed. When this occurs, intergranular penetration is maximised. Weight gain data are assessed and briefly described and a tentative model for the mechanism of corrosion of Alloy 800 in HTR helium is proposed. Areas for further work are ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A novel adhesive for carbon materials composed of phenol-formaldehyde resin, boron carbide and fumed silica, was prepared. The adhesive property of graphite joints bonded by the above adhesive treated at high-temperatures was tested. Results showed that the adhesive was found to have outstanding high-temperature bonding properties for graphite. The adhesive structure was dense and uniform even after the graphite joints were heat-treated at 1500 deg. C. Bonding strength was 17.1 MPa. The evolution of adhesive structure was investigated. The results indicated that the addition of the secondary additive, fumed silica, improved the bonding performance greatly. Borosilicate phase with better stability was formed during the heat-treatment process, and the volume shrinkage was restrained effectively, which was responsible for the satisfactory high-temperature bonding performance of graphite.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Preliminary studies were preformed to determine whether thermal conductivity of cementitious grouts used to backfill heat exchanger loops for geothermal heat pumps could be improved, thus improving efficiency. Grouts containing selected additives were compares with conventional bentonite and cement grouts. Significant enhancement of grout alumina grit, steel fibers, and silicon carbide increased the thermal conductivity when compared to unfilled, high solids bentonite grouts and conventional cement grouts. Furthermore, the developed grouts retained high thermal conductivity in the dry state, where as conventional bentonite and cement grouts tend to act as insulators if moisture is lost. The cementitious grouts studied can be mixed and placed using conventional grouting equipment.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Normal state nuclear magnetic resonance studies of the La_3In, La_3Tl compounds have been made in order to investigate the origin of the large temperature-dependent magnetic susceptibility. It is possible to analyse the different contributions to the susceptibility using Knight-shift and relaxation time T_1 measurements of In"1"1"5 and Tl"2"0"5 nuclei. The exchange enhancement of the spin-susceptibility chisub(pd) is of the same order as that found in A-15 compounds and the strong temperature-dependence of chi(T) is attributed to the presence of a peak in the electronic density of states near the Fermi level. The variation of the Knight-shift in the ternary alloys La_3Xsub(1-y)Xsub(y)sup(') is analogous to that observed in the corresponding La_3X phases, on the other hand the Knight-shift in the carbides La_3XC is temperature independent. (author).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The use of Sialon ceramics has been restricted by the high temperature required for synthesis and the expense of the pure oxide and nitride raw materials required. For refractory applications the purity required is less demanding and it has been possible to exploit the outstanding durability of the Sialons at moderate cost. New low cost manufacturing routes are being developed by nitriding silicon metal powder at relatively low temperature with clay and various additives depending on the Sialon required. For example the introduction of carbon or fine silicon carbide allows the preparation of beta Sialons and alpha Sialons which can be stabilised by including the appropriate cations. A wide range of composite Sialon bodies with diverse properties can be prepared by a one step process. Current projects developing the synthesis routes are aimed, in the first instance, at refractory manufacture but are showing promise for more sophisticated applications. Copyright ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Vanadium carbide is the most effective grain growth inhibitor for ultrafine WC-Co composites due to its high solubility and mobility in the cobalt phase at relatively low temperatures; however, there are still some debates over the best way to introduce it into the WC-Co formulation. In this paper, the differences between admixed and chemically doped grain growth inhibitors on the microstructural development and properties of an ultrafine WC-10Co composite are discussed. The densification rate of chemically doped samples is slower in the early stage of sintering and the WC grain sizes of the sintered alloys are finer than those of admixed samples, leading to the increase of hardness and transverse rupture strength of the sintered alloys. The effectiveness of the chemically doped inhibitor ...

Science.gov (United States)

By applying lock-in thermography imaging, light-beam-induced current imaging, electron-beam-induced current imaging at different stages of sample preparation, and infrared light microscopy in transmission mode, the physical nature of the dominant material-induced shunts in multicrystalline solar cells made from p-type silicon material has been investigated. It turns out that these shunts are due to silicon carbide (SiC) filaments, which grow preferentially in grain boundaries and cross the whole cell. These filaments are highly n-type doped, like the emitter layer on the surface of the cells. They are electrically connected both with the emitter and with the back contact, thereby producing internal shunts in the solar cell.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

By applying lock-in thermography imaging, light-beam-induced current imaging, electron-beam-induced current imaging at different stages of sample preparation, and infrared light microscopy in transmission mode, the physical nature of the dominant material-induced shunts in multicrystalline solar cells made from p-type silicon material has been investigated. It turns out that these shunts are due to silicon carbide (SiC) filaments, which grow preferentially in grain boundaries and cross the whole cell. These filaments are highly n-type doped, like the emitter layer on the surface of the cells. They are electrically connected both with the emitter and with the back contact, thereby producing internal shunts in the solar cell.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A new test methodology is described which allows access to loading rates that lie between split Hopkinson bar and shock-loading techniques. Gas gun experiments combined with velocity interferometry techniques have been used to experimentally determine the intermediate strain-rate loading behavior of Coors AD995 alumina and Cercom silicon-carbide rods. Graded-density materials have been used as impactors; thereby eliminating the tension states generated by the radial stress components during the loading phase. Results of these experiments demonstrate that the time-dependent stress pulse generated during impact allows an efficient transition from the initial uniaxial strain loading to a uniaxial stress state as the stress pulse propagates through the rod. This allows access to intermediate loading rates over 5 x 10{sup 3}/s to a few times 10{sup 4}/s.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Intergranular corrosion (IGC) resistance of types 304LN and 316LN stainless steels (SS) thermally aged at 823, 873, and 923 K for various durations was assessed by ASTM A262 practice A test (electrolytic etch test) and electrochemical potentiodynamic reactivation (EPR) test. The results indicated that the type 316LN SS has significantly improved IGC resistance compared to 304LN SS. Based on the results of these tests, time-temperature-sensitization (TTS) diagrams were developed for both alloys. The secondary precipitates formed during thermal aging treatments were electrochemically extracted and analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) to determine the types of precipitates formed during the aging treatments. The results indicated that the precipitates were mostly of M_2_3C_6 carbides.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Presented in this report are the quantitative and qualitative aspects of the more than 5,800 applications of Grafoil on-plant. The subject all-graphite product was originally made by the Union Carbide Corporation. Its utilization in the forms of valve packing, gasketing and sealant tapes for leak repair and prevention on-plant since March 1970 is marked with typical zero-leak results. For all practical purposes, the successful results with Grafoil implementation indicate an unqualified control of leakage problems that began in 1967 with the V-11 and V-12 valves in the primary system of N Reactor. Meaningfully, the accruals of savings with existing and future applications shall continue to be incalculable in personnel exposure, maintenance, and capital. Inherent in the savings are the devised methodology and innovative developments coordinately employed in resolving the leak repair problems.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For years rock bit performance has been progressively improved by many innovative changes to the design of both the bit cutting structure and the bearing. The changes have offered increased footage per bit and reduced cost per foot of hole through longer bit life and/or faster penetration rate. Efforts to assist the industry in drilling deeper thru hard abrasive rocks such as cherts of West Texas, conglomerated of the Rockies and bromides of Oklahoma led to a major breakthrough in rock bit design - the development of the tungsten carbide cutting structure. When properly applied the bit far exceeded that of the non-sealed ball and roller bearing being used at the time. The bearing failure mode was one of severe race spalling and abrasive wear influenced by the drilling fluid entering the bearing.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A rapid combustion unit (Baird and Tatlock) incorporating a combustion chamber provided with baffle plates for complete combustion of the sample without the use of a catalyst has been assembled in a glove box for the determination of carbon and hydrogen in actinide complexes. The unit has been modified employing a movable electric furnace and a proportional temperature controller, for decomposition of the sample at desired heating rates. The set-up was standardised employing various reference materials such as benzoic acid, acetanilide, sulphanilamide and 1-chloro 2:4 dinitrobenzene and the standard deviation in the measurements evaluated. It has also been used successfully for the determination of carbon in uranium carbide and carbon and hydrogen in some uranyl-#beta#-diketone-amine N-oxide complexes and in plutonium(IV) oxalate. (auth.).

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

A ferritic steel with finely dispersed precipitates was investigated to reveal the fundamental strengthening mechanisms. The steel has a yield strength of 760MPa, approximately three times higher than that of conventional Ti-bearing high strength hot-rolled sheet steels, and its ultimate tensile strength reaches 850MPa with an elongation-to-failure value of 18%. Using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) and transmission electron microscope (TEM), fine carbides TiC with an average diameter of 10nm were observed in the ferrite matrix of the 0.08%Ti steel, and some cubic M23C6 precipitates were also observed at the grain boundaries and the interior of the grains. The finely dispersed TiC precipitates in the matrix provide matrix strengthening. The estimated magnitude of precipitation ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uranium-aluminum alloys with a significant enrichment of uranium with "2"3"3U or "2"3"5U serve as nuclear fuels in research reactors. The quality assurance of this fuel requires, among other things, precise knowledge that all trace metal constituents that affect neutron economy, fuel integrity, and fuel fabrication process parameters are well within the specification limits. Trace metal characterization of "2"3"5U-Al alloy has been carried out by atomic spectrometry. The trace metal constituents of interest are grouped into common metals (silver, boron, calcium, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, sodium, nickel, lead, silicon, tin, titanium, vanadium, tungsten, and zinc) and lanthanides (cerium, dysprosium, europium, gadolinium, holminium, lutetium, samarium, and terbium). The elements yttrium and zirconium are grouped with the latter in view of the chemical separation procedure used. The alloy samples are dissolved in 6 M ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The present design of Blanket Shield and Primary Wall for ITER envisages construction of the wall with a water cooled, stainless steel outer layer and a water cooled, copper liner on the inside plasma facing surface. Protection of the inner copper surface with an armour layer is necessary to cope with plasma to wall interaction. There are a number of armour materials under consideration, for this project beryllium was used. The scope of work was to produce a series of mock-ups, each consisting of a different combination of materials, which included Dispersion Strengthened Copper, Copper-Chrome-Zirconium alloy, Beryllium and Stainless Steel. Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) was the method used to ensure that a fully diffused bonded joint was achieved giving the necessary strength and thermal conductivity. The first five of the mock ups have been successfully completed and are being tested at the various laboratories in Europe. The remaining mock ups are awaiting the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A type of mesoporous ZrO{sub 2} was synthesized and its phosphate removal potential was investigated in this study. The adsorption isotherm, pH effect, ionic strength effect and desorption were examined in batch experiments. The adsorption data fitted well to the Langmuir model with which the maximum P adsorption capacity was estimated to be 29.71 mg P/g. The amount of phosphate adsorbed increased rapidly in the first 5 h and slowly towards the end of the run, suggesting the possible monolayer coverage of phosphate ions on the surface of the adsorbent. The phosphate adsorption tended to increase with a decrease of pH and an increase of ionic strength. A phosphate desorbability of approximately 60% was observed with 0.5 M NaOH, which indicated a relatively strong bonding between the adsorbed PO{sub 4}{sup 3-} and the sorptive sites on the surface of the adsorbent. The immobilization of phosphate probably occurs by the mechanisms of ion exchange and physicochemical attraction. Due to its ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

At least quinary alloys form metallic glass upon cooling below the glass transition temperature at a rate less than 10.sup.3 K/s. Such alloys comprise zirconium and/or hafnium in the range of 45 to 65 atomic percent, titanium and/or niobium in the range of 4 to 7.5 atomic percent, and aluminum and/or zinc in the range of 5 to 15 atomic percent. The balance of the alloy compositions comprise copper, iron, and cobalt and/or nickel. The composition is constrained such that the atomic percentage of iron is less than 10 percent. Further, the ratio of copper to nickel and/or cobalt is in the range of from 1:2 to 2:1. The alloy composition formula is: (Zr,Hf).sub.a (Al,Zn).sub.b (Ti,Nb).sub.c (Cu.sub.x Fe.sub.y (Ni,Co).sub.z).sub.d wherein the constraints upon the formula are: a ranges from 45 to 65 atomic percent, b ranges from 5 to 15 atomic percent, c ranges from 4 to 7.5 atomic percent, d comprises the balance, d.multidot.y is less than 10 atomic percent, and x/z ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Propylene polymerizations were carried out with #phi#_2C(Flu)(Cp)ZrCl_2 and SiMe_2(Ind)2ZrCl_2 catalysts supported on silica, zeolite sodic mordenite (NaM) and acid mordenite (HM). The polymerizations were performed at different temperatures and varying aluminium/zirconium molar ratios ([Al]/[Zr]). The effect of these reaction parameters on the catalyst activity was investigated using a proposed statistical experimental planning. In the case of f_2C(Flu)(Cp)ZrCl_2, SiO_2 and NaM were used as support and the catalyst performance evaluated using toluene and pentane as polymerization solvent. The molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, melting point and crystallinity of the polymers were examined. The results indicate very high activities for the syndiospecific heterogeneous system. Also, the polymers obtained had superior Mw and stereo regularity. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This project of law concerns an additional protocol to the agreement of warranties signed on September 22, 1998 between France, the European atomic energy community and the IAEA. This agreement concerns the declaration of all information relative to the R and D activities linked with the fuel cycle and involving the cooperation with a foreign country non endowed with nuclear weapons. These information include the trade and processing of nuclear and non-nuclear materials and equipments devoted to nuclear reactors (pressure vessels, fuel loading/unloading systems, control rods, force and zirconium tubes, primary coolant pumps, deuterium and heavy water, nuclear-grade graphite), to fuel reprocessing plants, to isotope separation plants (gaseous diffusion, laser enrichment, plasma separation, electromagnetic enrichment), to heavy water and deuterium production plants, and to uranium conversion plants. (J.S.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The electrometallurgical treatment process described in this paper builds on our experience in treating spent fuel from the Experimental Breeder Reactor (EBR-II). The work is also to some degree, a spin-off from applying electrometallurgical treatment to spent fuel from the Hanford single pass reactors (SPRs) and fuel and flush salt from the Molten Salt Reactor Experiment (MSRE) in treating EBR-II fuel, we recover the actinides from a uranium-zirconium fuel by electrorefining the uranium out of the chopped fuel. With SPR fuel, uranium is electrorefined out of the aluminum cladding. Both of these processes are conducted in a LiCl-KCl molten-salt electrolyte. In the case of the MSRE, which used a fluoride salt-based fuel, uranium in this salt is recovered through a series of electrochemical reductions. Recovering high-purity uranium from an aluminum-matrix fuel is more challenging than treating SPR or EBR-II fuel because the aluminum- matrix fuel is typically -90% ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

During 17 years since the start of operation of the first commercial LWR in Japan, many LWRs have experienced various corrosion damages, but the causes of them were clarified, and the counter-measures were executed effectively in actual plants, as the results, the cause of corrosion damage decreased remarkably, and now, the high rate of operation has become to be maintained. In this paper, the major cases of corrosion damage experienced in LWRs in Japan and foreign countries, the causes of them and the countermeasures, the problems of hereafter and so on are described. The corrosion damage of metallic materials in the environment of LWRs occurs in the parts in contact with high temperature, high pressure water and steam, such as stainless steel piping in the primary cooling system of BWRs, and nickel alloy heating tubes of steam generators, carbon steel feed water piping and zirconium alloy fuel cladding tubes in PWRs. Recently, accompanying the advance of LWR ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper presents a new methodology to create realistic 3D microstructures of polycrystals. The virtual microstructures are based on statistical data describing the morphological and crystallographic textures of a sample, obtained from an EBSD analysis. In addition, the methodology can reproduce the observed surface on top of the simulated microstructure. This feature allows finite element calculations on these virtual aggregates to be compared to experimental results of mechanical tests. Such a comparison leads to the identification of the mechanical parameters of constitutive laws, such as critical resolved shear stress and strain hardening, using an optimization algorithm. Two materials were simulated in this study: TiAl and grade 702 zirconium. The first one presents twins inside the microstructure and the second one has an anisotropic texture. Based on 2D simulations, the important parameters necessary to describe a microstructure were identified as grain ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pitting crevice and intergranular corrosion resistances of titanium-modified low-carbon austenitic stainless steel with a nominal composition of 15% Cr, 15% Ni, 0.24% Ti and 2.5% Mo were found superior to conventional type 316 SS. Potentiodynamic anodic polarization studies in a neutral chloride medium (0.5M NaCl solution) and the immersion studies in boiling solution containing (by wt%) 11% H_2SO_4 + 3% HCl + 1% CuCl_2 + 1% FeCl_3 for 24 h showed higher critical pitting and crevice potentials and lower corrosion rate values respectively. The elemental composition across the pit sites was also determined by EPMA analysis. Sensitization studies carried out by following ASTM A262 practices A and E and electrochemical potentiokinetic reactivation (EPR) tests on this alloy heat treated at 923 K for 1 and 50 h showed a better resistance to intergranular corrosion than that for conventional type 316 SS. From the results available, the most likely reason for the improvement in the localized ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text of publication follows: The effect of neutron irradiation on the thermal conductivity of silicon carbide can be dramatic depending on the irradiation temperature and fluence the material is subjected to, and may be a critical factor defining it's use in fusion systems. Historically there have been several papers describing the effect of neutron irradiation on thermal conductivity degradation of SiC, predominately in the low to intermediate temperature ranges. Practically all of this work has been at temperatures lower than the application temperature for SiC being considered by the conceptual fusion reactors. This paper provides new data on the thermal conductivity of high quality CVD silicon carbide irradiated in a range of doses and temperature spanning the proposed fusion reactor temperature range. Specifically, an irradiation was carried out from fractions milli-dpa to approximately 8 dpa in the HFIR with irradiation temperatures ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lithium-ion batteries are becoming more and more important not only for portable electronic devices, but also in prevision of high power electric vehicles. In such an optic, deep studies regarding all the components of a secondary battery are in development. In this study, high voltage cathode materials have been selected. Crystals with spinel structure have a 3D vacancy pathway suitable for Li-ions transport. The material under study was LiNi{sub 0.5}Mn{sub 1.5}O{sub 4} doped with magnesium replacing the nickel. Various samples were synthesized via three different routes: a solid-state method, a modified sol-gel method and a xerogel method. The structure and morphology of the powders were analyzed with HRTEM and XRD. Electrochemical tests were also performed. A wide range of particle sizes (from micro to nanosize) was the result of the different synthesis routes. Unfortunately pure materials were not always obtained. The electrochemical tests showed improvement of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper reports on the results of a study of the synthesis conditions effects on magnetic and transport properties of nanosized layers of high-T{sub c} diluted magnetic semiconductors (DMS), such as Ge:Mn, Si:Mn and Si:Fe, fabricated by laser-plasma deposition over a wide range of the growth temperature, T{sub g}=(20-550) deg. C on single-crystal GaAs or Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} substrates. Ferromagnetism of the layers was detected by measurement data of the magneto-optical Kerr effect, anomalous Hall effect, negative magnetoresistance and ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) at 5-500 K. The optimum growth temperature, T{sub g}, for Si:Mn/GaAs layers with T{sub c}{approx}400 K is shown to be about 400 deg. C. The Si:Mn/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} layers with 35% of Mn have the metal-type of conductivity with manifestation of magnetization up to room temperature. Different types of uniformly doped structures and digital alloys have been investigated. In contrast to GaSb:Mn films, ...

Science.gov (United States)

The extensive reserves of mined coal types, their great variety and the complexity of the composition and properties, as well as their important role as an energy fuel and industrial feedstock, cause one to give special attention to their classification. Of course, one of the principal fields of technological processing of coal is coking. In addition to the production of blast furnace coke, in the future specialized plants will be developed for production of coke and other carbonized materials for non-blast-furnace processes (electrothermal processes, production of calcium carbide, ferroalloys, zinc, yellow phosphorus, copper, etc.). One important area is new nonfuel uses, including a number of processes for processing of coal feedstocks to obtain a wide range of carbonaceous materials (coal-graphite products, carbon black, adsorbents, etc.), liquid fuels, and chemical products. In choosing a given area of coal utilization a determining factor is the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The dispersion of more than 20 vol pct submicrometer ceramic particles within a metallic matrix and the deposition of such a cermet to form a thick and tough coating presents problems. Most of the coating techniques have failed in attempting to homogeneously disperse very fine and hard particles in large amounts while avoiding their decomposition or reaction with the metal matrix during the deposition process. A simple and efficient method has been developed for producing ceramic-containing composite coatings. It consists in synthesizing cermet-based materials and in depositing them by a rapid solidification process, such as thermal spraying. Boride- and carbide-based materials have been successfully obtained by plasma spraying reactive powders comprising the basic reagents. These materials, with a microstructure of submicrometer ceramic particles dispersed in a metallic matrix, exhibit good wear-resistant properties (abrasion and sliding wear). Finally, reactive ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper presents the technical and economic studies performed by CEMIG, Companhia Energetica de Minas Gerais, Brazil, concerning the use of closing resistor in its extra-high voltage (EHV) breakers. The analysis emphasizes the advantages which could be achieved with the elimination of the resistor as far as costs and reliability are concerned. This evaluation was motivated by two 500 kV breaker failures resulting from the breakdown of the closing resistor operation mechanism. These occurrences resulted in operative restriction for CEMIG EHV system. The analysis demanded a review of the capability criteria of silicon carbide (Si C) gap arresters, which are still greatly used in CEMIG EHV System, and of the procedures to be applied when carrying out the transient studies. The investigation resulted in the prompt removal of closing resistors from circuit breakers in CEMIG extra-high voltage system generating an economy of approximately U$ 840,00 and an improvement ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Microstructural analyses by several advanced metallographic techniques were conducted on austenitic stainless steel mockup and core shroud welds that had cracked in boiling water reactors. Contrary to previous beliefs, heat-affected zones of the cracked Type 304L, as well as 304 SS core shroud welds and mockup shielded-metal-arc welds, were free of grain-boundary carbides, which shows that core shroud failure cannot be explained by classical intergranular stress corrosion cracking. Neither martensite nor delta-ferrite films were present on the grain boundaries. However, as a result of exposure to welding fumes, the heat-affected zones of the core shroud welds were significantly contaminated by oxygen and fluorine, which migrate to grain boundaries. Significant oxygen contamination seems to promote fluorine contamination and suppress thermal sensitization. Results of slow-strain-rate tensile tests also indicate that fluorine exacerbates the susceptibility of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silver zeolite is used to capture radioiodines from air cleaning systems in some nuclear facilities at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory. It may become radioactively contaminated and/or poisoned by hydrocarbon vapors, which diminishes its capacity for iodine. Silver zeolite contains up to 38 wt% silver. A pyrometallurgical process was developed to reclaim the silver before disposing of the unserviceable zeolite as a radioactive waste. A flux was formulated to convert the refractory aluminosilicate zeolite structure into a low-melting fluid slag, with Na{sub 2}O added as NAOH instead of Na{sub 2}CO{sub 3} to avoid severe foaming due to CO{sub 2} evolution. A propane-fired furnace was built to smelt 45 kg charges at 1300C in a carbon-bonded silicon carbide crucible. A total of 218 kg (7000 tr oz) of silver was reclaimed from 1050 kg of unserviceable zeolite. Silver recoveries of 97% were achieved, and the radioisotopes were fixed as stable silicates in a ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A major problem in the maintenance and rehabilitation of pipelines is the removal of the original coating system, particularly in cases where the coating contains sticky components or adhesives. It has been found that such coatings can be removed by use of a cleaning machine with a plurality of counter-rotating carbide-tipped tools mounted to an oscillating head embracing the pipe, and which is operable at the same time to travel along the length of the pipe. Such a machine can be designed to effect a positive, gentle milling operation on the pipe surface to remove the coating efficiently and at relatively low power consumption. A particular advantage of the pipe cleaning machine of the invention is that its design and manner of operation allows it to be used in the field to clean an uncovered section of pipeline, for example a natural gas pipeline, without the requirement of removing the pipeline section from the ditch in which it is seated. The machine of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Transmission electron microscopy studies on solution-annealed Alloy 800 revealed small (100-200 nm), spherical-shaped titanium carbide (face centered cubic structure) and large (200 nm-5 {mu}m), faceted titanium nitride (hexagonal structure) particles randomly distributed in the austenite matrix. The volume fraction of former particles was found to be greater than that of the latter. Corrosion studies of the alloy in acidic, chlorides and acidic chloride environments at room temperature indicated that the passivity of Alloy 800 was adversely affected by the addition Cl{sup -} ions. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the surface film formed on the alloy at the onset of passivity consisted of Cr{sup 3+} (as Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}), without any Fe{sup 3+}/Fe{sup 2+} or Ni{sup 2+}. Scanning electron microscopy studies indicated initiation of pitting at large, faceted particles, not at small, spherical-shaped ones.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Irradiation response on the tensile properties of 9Cr-2W steels has been investigated following FFTF/MOTA irradiations at temperatures between 646 and 873 K up to doses between 10 and 59 dpa. The largest irradiation hardening accompanied by the largest decrease in the elongation is observed for the specimens irradiated at 646 K at doses between 10 and 15 dpa. The irradiation hardening appears to saturate at a dose of around 10 dpa at the irradiation temperature. No hardening but softening was observed in the specimens irradiated at above 703 K to doses of 40 and 59 dpa. Microstructural observation by transmission electron microscope (TEM) revealed that the dislocation loops with the a left angle 100 right angle type Burgers vector and small precipitates which were identified to be M_6C type carbides existed after the irradiation at below 703 K. As for the void formation, the average size of voids increased with increasing irradiation temperature from 646 to 703 K. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The interrelationship between the testing temperature and HfC strength increment of an arc-melted W-3.6Re-0.4HfC was determined from 1950 K to 2980 K in a vacuum of better than 1.3x10"-"5 Pa (10"-"7 torr). The present research was focused on the characteristic temperature at which the rapid coarsening of HfC particles occurred and the effect of the second-phase particle size on the high temperature strength properties of this material. It was found that the HfC particle strengthening was effective in a W-Re matrix up to a characteristic temperature of 2450 K in the short-term tensile test. Carbon was found to be the rate-limiting solute in the HfC particle growth. The strength of HfC strengthened alloy at temperature above 0.5 T_m is proportional to the square root of particle volume fraction. The yield strengths of W-3.6Re-0.26HfC calculated based on the particle statistical distribution had good agreement with the experimental values from 1950 K to 2980 K. Besides, an addition of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Flow-curve characteristics of the heat-resistant steels X 20 CrMoV 12.1 and alloy 800 (X5NiCrTiAl32.20) were measured by tensile and compression tests at temperatures between room temperature and 800 C and strain rates {epsilon}{<=}10 s{sup -1} in connection with microstructure investigations (dislocation content, carbide precipitation) by TEM and X-ray diffraction analysis (XDA). Modelling the deformation behaviour of the steels in terms of the microstructure development indicates that it cannot be explained in a simple manner. The flow curves {sigma}={sigma}({epsilon}, {epsilon}, T) lie, in general, between those predicted by the Kocks-Mecking-Estrin model and a modified (i.e. two-parameter) Roberts model. Because of the less complicated nature of the deformation process the correspondence of experiment and modelling is more satisfying in the case of the material X 20 CrMoV 12.1. (orig.) 26 refs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The effects of Fe and B{sub 4}C on the sintering behavior and mechanical properties of TiB{sub 2} ceramics have been studied. Sintering was performed in an Ar atmosphere at 2000{degrees}C using attrition-milled TiB{sub 2} powder. When a small amount of Fe (0.5 wt%) was added, abnormal grain growth occurred and the sintered density was low. In the case of B{sub 4}C added along with 0.5 wt% Fe, however, abnormal grain growth was remarkably suppressed, and the sintered density was increased up to 95% of theoretical. But with excess Fe addition (5 wt%), B{sub 4}C grains did not act as a grain growth inhibitor, and B{sub 4}C grains were frequently trapped in large TiB{sub 2} grains. The best mechanical properties were obtained for the TiB{sub 2}-10 wt% B{sub 4}C-0.5 wt% Fe ceramics, which exhibited a three-point bending strength of 400 MPa and a fracture toughness of 5.5 MPa {center dot} m{sup 1/2}.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A brief survey is given of some recent results on doping of 4H- and 6H-SiC by ion implantation. The doses and energies used are between 10{sup 9} and 10{sup 15} cm{sup -2} and 100 keV and 5 MeV, respectively, and B and Al ions (p-type dopants) are predominantly studied. After low dose implantation ({<=}10{sup 10} cm{sup -2}) a strong compensation is observed in n-type samples and this holds irrespective of implantation temperature up to 600 C. However, at higher doses (10{sup 14}-10{sup 15} Al/cm{sup 2}) the rate of defect recombination (annihilation) increases substantially during hot implants ({>=}200 C), and in these samples one type of structural defect dominates after post-implant annealing at 1700-2000 C. The defect is identified as a dislocation loop composed of clustered interstitial atoms inserted on the basal plane in the hexagonal crystal structure. Finally, transient enhanced diffusion (TED) of ion-implanted boron in 4H-samples is discussed. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Displacements per atom (DPA) is a widely used damage unit for displacement damage in nuclear materials. Calculating the DPA for SiC irradiated in a particular facility requires a knowledge of the neutron spectrum as well as specific information about displacement damage in that material. In recent years significant improvements in displacement damage information for SiC have been generated, especially the energy required to displace an atom in an irradiation event and the models used to describe electronic and nuclear stopping. Using this information, numerical solutions for the displacement functions in SiC have been determined from coupled integro-differential equations for displacements in polyatomic materials and applied in calculations of spectral-averaged displacement cross sections for SiC. This procedure has been used to generate spectrally averaged displacement cross sections for SiC in a number of reactors used for radiation damage testing of fusion materials, as well as the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The need for a hydrogen economy is driven by increasing fuel prices, depleting oil reserves and uncertainty over supplies, and concerns about global warming and environmental pollution. Alternative methods to portable energy sources such as fossil fuels are being developed that are more efficient and carbon-emission-neutral. A prospective method is to produce hydrogen as an energy carrier. This paper presented a study on the degradation of materials under conditions of the sulphur-iodine (SI) thermochemical cycle. The paper provided background information on the study and presented a schematic of the SI cycle. A literature review was presented along with materials selected, such as refractory metals, reactive metals, superalloys, glassy metals, ceramics, cermets, polymers, composites, and coatings. The experimental method was then described. A capsule method was developed to rapidly quantify the decomposition rate of the candidate materials under the target conditions of temperature, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In this work we present an ultra-low temperature method for the oxidation of an amorphous silicon-carbide-nitride (SiCN) material. The SiCN is deposited on silicon substrates by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition using CH{sub 4}, SiH{sub 4}, and N{sub 2} chemistry. The physical and chemical properties are characterized for the as-deposited SiCN and post-oxidized films are discussed. The SiCN film is exposed to oxygen plasma, where it undergoes a chemical transformation into a binary SiO{sub 2} material system. A 1.7 nm/min oxidation rate is typical for this process and compares favorably to oxidation methods utilizing much higher temperatures. The substrate temperature remains extremely low throughout the oxidation process, T{sub s} < 200 deg. C. Changes in film stress, optical constants, film thickness, surface roughness, and film density are measured. Chemical analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy is reported for both the as-deposited and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Niobium carbide can be used to inhibit WC grain growth in hardmetal. The performance of a NbC powder produced at low temperature by solid-gas reaction (an experimental powder) as WC grain growth inhibitor is compared with that of a commercial NbC powder. It is verified that NbC effectively inhibits heterogeneous WC coarsening. This results in an increase in hardness. The commercial and experimental NbC powders exhibit a comparable performance in inhibiting the WC grain coarsening, in spite of a significant difference in particle size and shape. The commercial NbC powder is very fine while the experimental one is coarse and porous, but its crystallites are finer than those of the commercial product. The milling procedure used to prepare the alloys is able to reduce the particle size of the experimental NbC, and thus guarantee a dispersion of the particles with a quality level comparable to that found for the alloy prepared with the commercial NbC. (orig.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

An effective procedure for removing _3H, Xe and Kr from irradiated fuels was demonstrated using Shippingport UO"2 fuel. The release characteristics of _3H, Kr, Xe, and I from irradiated nuclear fuel have been determined as a function of temperature and gaseous environment. Vacuum outgassing and a flowing gas stream have been used to vary the gaseous environment. Vacuum outgassing released about 99% of the _3H and 20% of both Kr and Xe within a 3 h at 1500_0C. Similar results were obtained using a carrier gas of He containing 6% H"2. However, a carrier gas containing only He resulted in the release of approximately 80% of the _3H and 99% of both Kr and Xe. These results indicate that the release of these volatile fission products from irradiated nuclear fuel is a function of the chemical composition of the gaseous environment. The rate of tritium release increased with increasing temperature (1100 to 1500_0C) and with the addition of hydrogen to the gas stream. Using crushed UO"2 fuel ...

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Three kinds of surface modifications were carried out on LiNi{sub 1/2}Mn{sub 3/2}O{sub 4} thin-films to improve the charge and discharge characteristics of LiNi{sub 1/2}Mn{sub 3/2}O{sub 4} positive electrodes. Among them, Zr(OBu){sub 4}/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-treated LiNi{sub 1/2}Mn{sub 3/2}O{sub 4} thin-film electrodes showed charge and discharge efficiency of 80-84% in the first cycle, which was much higher than that for an untreated LiNi{sub 1/2}Mn{sub 3/2}O{sub 4} thin-film electrode (73%). The values of the charge and discharge efficiency were still higher than that for an untreated electrode after the 30th cycle. The charge and discharge curves gave two plateaus at around 4.72 and 4.76 V, which were very similar to those for the untreated electrode. Ac impedance spectroscopy revealed that the surface film resistance should not increase by Zr(OBu){sub 4}/PMMA treatment. XPS measurements suggest that a composite layer should be formed on a LiNi{sub 1/2}Mn{sub 3/2}O{sub 4} ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Over the recent years the nuclear structure around the N = 50 shell closure, which is very pronounced in the strontium and zirconium isotopes, has been the subject of extensive experimental and theoretical work. On the proton side Z = 38 and Z = 40 provide fairly closed sub-shells. In the strontium isotopes the lg/sub 9/2/ neutron shell is closed at "8"8Sr, supplying relatively pure neutron-hole and neutron-particle states with large spectroscopic factors in "8"7Sr and "8"9Sr, as well as core-coupled states. The mass region is thus ideally suited to examine the transition from a correlated to an uncorrelated (chaotic?) excitational behavior. These two types are characterized e.g. by the density of excited states, the transition strengths, and the spectroscopic factors observed in transfer reactions. We conducted (n,#gamma#) and (d,p) reactions leading to /sup 87,88,89/Sr in addition to "8"8Sr(d,t)"8"7Sr and 24 keV neutron capture in "8"8Sr. The vast amounts of data ...

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The reaction of uranium oxides and chlorine to prepare anhydrous uranium tetrachloride (UCl{sub 4}) are important to more economical preparation of uranium metal. The most practical reactions require carbon or carbon monoxide (CO) to give CO or carbon dioxide (CO{sub 2}) as waste gases. The chemistry of U-O-Cl compounds is very complex with valances of 3, 4, 5, and 6 and with stable oxychlorides. Literature was reviewed to collect thermochemical data, phase equilibrium information, and results of experimental studies. Calculations using thermodynamic data can identify the probable reactions, but the results are uncertain. All the U-O-Cl compounds have large free energies of formation and the calculations give uncertain small differences of large numbers. The phase diagram for UCl{sub 4}-UO{sub 2} shows a reaction to form uranium oxychloride (UOCl{sub 2}) that has a good solubility in molten UCl{sub 4}. This appears more favorable to good rates of reaction than reaction of solids and ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zircaloy-2 and Zircaloy-4 tubing materials were irradiated with 1 MeV proton at 350 degrees C to doses of 0.01, 0.1, and 1 dpa respectively. Both microstructure examination and nodular corrosion test (500 degrees C, 1500 psi steam) were performed in order to understand the relationship between the microstructural evolution and the corrosion resistance of these alloys under irradiation. Neutron-irradiated Zircaloy-2 specimens which were obtained from a failed BWR fuel rod cladding were also studied. Specimens of three different neutron fluences were investigated; namely, 2.6x10"2"4, 3.2x10"2"5, 3.8x10"2"5, (E_n#>=#1MeV). The results indicated that the higher the irradiation dose the better the nodular corrosion resistance of both Zircaloy-2 and Zircaloy-4. It is concluded that irradiation-induced precipitate dissolution and irradiation-enhanced diffusion may increase the solute concentration in the matrix and make it distributed more evenly which in turn increases the nodular ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A molybdenum (Mo) adsorbent called PZC (Poly Zirconium Compound) with high efficiency of Mo adsorption has been developed in order to generate {sup 99m}Tc from {sup 99}Mo produced from natural Mo by (n, gamma) method. The {sup 99m}Tc generator using PZC has cleared mostly the technical subjects. By the results of many experiments, cold and hot test with {sup 99}Mo activity from low level (10{sup 5} Bq) to high level (10{sup 10} Bq), it has been confirmed that the PZC method can be practically applied for the (n, gamma) {sup 99}Mo-{sup 99m}Tc generator. From the reasons that PZC has the ability and many merits such as high adsorption capacity (>250 mg-Mo/g-PZC) of Mo, high elution yield (av. 80%) of {sup 99m}Tc, the low breakthrough (<0.05 kBq-{sup 99m}Mo/MBq-{sup 99m}Tc) of {sup 99}Mo and others, the current (n, fission) {sup 99m}Tc generator utilizing {sup 99}Mo produced from enriched uranium will be taken the place by PZC method. In this paper, the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Alloying elements such as Fe and Cr are generally considered to be effective even in small quantities for corrosion resistance of Zircaloy-4. The maximum total solubility of Fe + Cr in a Zr-Sn matrix has been reported to be very low. Therefore, most of these elements are observed in the form of ternary Zr-Fe-Cr-type precipitates. To clarify the effects of precipitates on corrosion property, Zr-1.3 Sn-(Fe,Cr) alloys containing Fe + Cr from 45 up to 180 ppm (the Fe to Cr ratio is about 2) were melted from pure zirconium (X-bar Zr and EB-Zr) and pure alloying elements. They were subjected to corrosion testing in 633 K water and microstructural analysis. It was found that precipitate-free materials showed much larger weight gains than precipitate-containing materials even at the same alloy compositions. Subsequently, a corrosion test on the precipitate-free material galvanically coupled with a noble intermetallic compound of Zr(Fe{sub 0.66}Cr{sub 0.33}){sub 2} was ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The influence of high C martensite on the strength and impact behavior of C-Mn-Nb-Al steels has been determined for two distributions: films surrounding the ferrite grains and distinct colonies. In the former case, the impact behavior markedly deteriorated, this deterioration increasing with martensite level. The changes in impact behavior could be explained by regarding the films of martensite as being similar to the brittle grain boundary carbides that are present in ferrite-pearlite steels. These films readily crack, yet are always thick enough to produce a sufficient wide crack to render crack propagation easy. The critical event in fracture then becomes the ability to propagate the cracks through the grain boundaries. The greater the grain boundary coverage by these films, the easier this becomes and the worse is the impact behavior. When the martensite is present as colonies, again the impact performance is seriously impaired, but to a lesser extent than when ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Several shield options were analyzed for the ITER conceptual design to minimize the nuclear responses in the toroidal field (TF) coils. The total nuclear heating in the physics phase and the insulator dose in the technology phase are the most critical parameters in the design process. The first shield option has type 316 stainless steel and water shielding material. Steel and water also serve as structural material and coolant, respectively. The second option is similar to the first except that borated water is used instead of ordinary water. The other two options include a small layer of lead or boron carbide (B{sub 4}C) at the back of the shield. The last three shield options were considered to reduce the nuclear heating in the toroidal field coils relative to the steel/water shield. An optimization process was performed taking into consideration the thermal-hydraulics and the engineering requirements to define the shield configuration. A careful integration was ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Exploratory experiments of laser welding cast Ni-based superalloy K418 turbo disk and alloy steel 42CrMo shaft were conducted. Microstructure of the welded seam was characterized by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS). Mechanical properties of the welded seam were evaluated by microhardness and tensile strength testing. The corresponding mechanisms were discussed in detail. Results showed that the laser-welded seam had non-equilibrium solidified microstructures consisting of FeCr_0_._2_9Ni_0_._1_6C_0_._0_6 austenite solid solution dendrites as the dominant and some fine and dispersed Ni_3Al #gamma#' phase and Laves particles as well as little amount of MC short stick or particle-like carbides distributed in the interdendritic regions. The average microhardness of the welded seam was relatively uniform and lower than that of the base metal due to partial dissolution and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Significant ion irradiation during film growth is required for the formation of cubic boron nitride (cBN) films. Meanwhile, a huge level of intrinsic stress possibly induced by the ion bombardment has been frequently reported to result in cracking and/or lack of adhesion of deposited cBN films. The present work has been performed to investigate the interfacial and/or the buffer layer structures with better matching to the cBN film by relaxation of the film stress using ion-beam-assisted deposition (IBAD). Boron nitride films have been synthesized on Si(100) wafer and tungsten carbide (WC) substrates by depositing boron vapor under simultaneous bombardment with nitrogen ions and nitrogen-argon mixture ions in the energy range of 0.5-10 keV. Cubic BN films with enhanced tribological properties have been explored by inserting a BN layer with various B/N compositions as a controlled buffer at the interface. Significant relaxation of the film stress has been observed ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Investigations of alternative renewable energy resources continue, with many studies concentrating on hydrogen storage. However, there are a few problems such as storage, transportation, delivery to the user and usage safely, to be addressed to facilitate commercialization and wide usage of the hydrogen. The absorbed form within the metal hydrides seems to be the best solution of this problem. Since Li is the lightest metal, it has the advantage as the stored amount of hydrogen mass ratio. LiBH{sub 4} production process was investigated using elemental Li, B and H{sub 2}. Spex type ball milling with tungsten carbide, stainless steel and zirconia type vessels, was used to mix the different amount of Li and B under argon atmosphere. X-ray diffraction pattern demonstrated that the LiB was obtained. A system was designed to provide a hydrogen atmosphere of 60 bars to force hydrogen into the LiB structure. FTIR analysis strongly indicated the LiBH{sub 4} compound when ...

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We have demonstrated in this work (1) that methane is readily activated at mild conditions (100[degree]C, 1 torr) over a relatively noble metal, Pd. This was observed using a stepped and kinked Pd(679) crystal (1), and other crystal faces are now being investigated to establish whether the cracking of the C-H bond of methane on Pd is structure sensitive or structure insensitive. Oxygen chemisorption is extremely structure sensitive: weakly bonded, highly reactive oxygen overlayers form on Pd(100) surface (2), while strongly bonded, moderately reactive oxygen overlayers form on Pd(111) and Pd(679). Reaction of the weakly bonded oxygen with surface carbide gives rise to CO[sub 2] over clean Pd(100) but to CO over halogen-doped Pd(100) (3--5). The effect of halogens is primarily ensemble-controlling, or oxygen-supply restricting, but long range influence of surface Cl on the strength of the Pd-O bond has also been observed (3). Because the overall chemistry of methane ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Experiments of autogenous laser full penetration welding between dissimilar cast Ni-based superalloy K418 and alloy steel 42CrMo flat plates with 3.5 mm thickness were conducted using a 3 kW continuous wave (CW) Nd:YAG laser. The influences of laser welding velocity, flow rate of side-blow shielding gas, defocusing distance were investigated. Microstructure of the welded seam was characterized by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). Mechanical properties of the welded seam were evaluated by microhardness and tensile strength testing. Results show that high quality full penetration laser-welded joint can be obtained by optimizing the welding velocity, flow rate of shielding gas and defocusing distance. The laser-welded seam have non-equilibrium solidified microstructures consisting of {gamma}-FeCr{sub 0.29}Ni{sub 0.16}C{sub 0.06} austenite solid solution dendrites as the dominant and very small ...

Science.gov (United States)

Experiments of autogenous laser full penetration welding between dissimilar cast Ni-based superalloy K418 and alloy steel 42CrMo flat plates with 3.5 mm thickness were conducted using a 3 kW continuous wave (CW) Nd:YAG laser. The influences of laser welding velocity, flow rate of side-blow shielding gas, defocusing distance were investigated. Microstructure of the welded seam was characterized by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). Mechanical properties of the welded seam were evaluated by microhardness and tensile strength testing. Results show that high quality full penetration laser-welded joint can be obtained by optimizing the welding velocity, flow rate of shielding gas and defocusing distance. The laser-welded seam have non-equilibrium solidified microstructures consisting of ?-FeCr0.29Ni0.16C0.06 austenite solid solution dendrites as the dominant and very small amount of super-fine ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Indian Nuclear Power Programme is based on closed nuclear fuel cycle for efficient utilization of its nuclear resources. This strategy also enables waste classification and gives an elegant solution to long-lived waste disposal problem. The three stage nuclear programme envisages mainly pressurized heavy water reactors in the first stage, fast breeder reactors in the second stage and thorium utilization in the third stage. Advanced Fuels in the context of this paper refer to Pu bearing fuels used or proposed to be used in our three stage programme. Fabrication of (U-Pu) Mixed Carbide fuel for FBTR is carried out at Radio Metallurgy Division at Trombay which has also an excellent Characterization facility required for development of all types of advanced Fuels. A (U-Pu) MOX fuel required for Proto-type Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR-500 MWe) is carried out at Advanced Fuel Fabrication Facility (AFFF), Tarapur which has also fabricated lead MOX fuel assemblies for two of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For a new and practical {sup 99m}Tc generator using not (n, f){sup 99}Mo, but (n, {gamma}){sup 99}Mo, an inorganic polymer adsorbent framed with oxygen-zirconium-chlorine bonds with a high adsorption performance of Mo has been developed; the polymer adsorbent was named PZC. The amounts of {sup 99}Mo (Mo) adsorbed are stably more than 250 mg/g(PZC). But, the current experiments with 0.5 MBq to 1.85 GBq of {sup 99}Mo gave a subject that the breakthrough of {sup 99}Mo in the elution of {sup 99m}Tc from the adsorbent was 0.05-0.5 %, although the breakthrough of Zr was less than the detection limit of 5 x 10{sup -2} mg(Zr) to 1 g of PZC, and {sup 99m}Tc was eluted constantly with 78{+-}4%. To apply the adsorbent as a generator commercially in Japan, the {sup 99}Mo breakthroughed from the generator must be suppressed to less than 0.15 kBp({sup 99}Mo)/MBq({sup 99m}Tc) by law which is equivalent to 0.015 %, and the {sup 99}Mo breakthrough is controlled practically to less ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The extensive research and development effort was initiated by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in 2002 at West Virginia University (WVU) in order to investigate practical ways of reducing the structural weight and increasing the durability of heavy vehicles through the judicious use of lightweight composite materials. While this project was initially focused on specific Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) material, namely Aluminum/Silicon Carbide (Al/SiC) commercially referenced as ''LANXIDE'', the current research effort was expanded from the component level to the system level and from MMC to other composite material systems. Broadening the scope of this research is warranted not only by the structural and economical deficiencies of the ''LANXIDE'' MMC material, but also by the strong coupling that exists between the material and the geometric characteristics of the structure. Such coupling ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

SiC-AlN and SiC-SiAlON refractory composites were obtained by means of nitridation of the mixtures of silicon carbide (SiC) powder with a broad granulometric distribution and powders of aluminium (Al) and aluminium-silicon (Al-Si) mixtures. The mixtures of the composition Al-25% Si, Al-50% Si and Al-75% Si were previously prepared by means of 'mechanical alloying' technique. Thermodynamic analysis was accomplished in order to evaluate the viability of SiC-SiAlON and SiC-AlN refractories production by the chosen processing method, and the results confirmed viability of such. Investigation of nitridation of Al and Al-Si powder compacts in order to obtain the AlN and #beta#-SiAlON matrix phases of the composite was accomplished by means of differential thermal analysis (DTA) and thermogravimetric analysis (TG). The results of the thermal analysis show that nitridation of the Al-25% Si, Al-50% Si and Al-75% Si resulting in p-SiAlON formation occur at temperatures of ...