Nanoscale mechanical behavior of uranium silicide compounds

Ursula Carvajal-Nunez, Joshua T. White, Elizabeth S. Wood, Nathan A. Mara, Andrew T. Nelson

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Uranium silicide compounds exhibit a range of attractive material properties for nuclear fuel applications, but little is known regarding their mechanical behavior. Nanoindentation has seen limited use for evaluation of the mechanical properties of nuclear fuel materials. The mechanical properties of nuclear fuels, and ceramics in particular, can be challenging to assess through conventional mechanical testing methods. The structure of nuclear fuels at high burnup can prove to be especially difficult given the significant changes in both chemistry and microstructure caused by fission products. Nanoindentation may therefore prove to be a valuable addition to post irradiation examination. The present focus is assessment of the room temperature modulus and hardness of U3Si2, U3Si5 and USi materials.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationTop Fuel 2016
Subtitle of host publicationLWR Fuels with Enhanced Safety and Performance
PublisherAmerican Nuclear Society
Pages1435-1441
Number of pages7
ISBN (Electronic)9780894487309
StatePublished - 2016
EventTop Fuel 2016: LWR Fuels with Enhanced Safety and Performance - Boise, United States
Duration: Sep 11 2016Sep 15 2016

Publication series

NameTop Fuel 2016: LWR Fuels with Enhanced Safety and Performance

Other

OtherTop Fuel 2016: LWR Fuels with Enhanced Safety and Performance
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityBoise
Period9/11/169/15/16

Keywords

  • Mechanical properties
  • Nanoindentation
  • Nuclear fuels
  • Uranium-silicides

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