Adding carbon to tri-structural isotropic uranium fuels

[Marlin]

Adding carbon to tri-structural isotropic uranium fuels

https://www.aip.org/scilights/adding-carbon-to-tri-structural-isotropic-uranium-fuels

[Core Content]

Researchers used density functional theory to analyze how carbon additives alter the structural and elastic properties of uranium oxycarbide fuel kernels. The study indicates that carbon modifies directional stiffness and chemical bonding within the fuel, which influences how pellets respond to deformation. These findings will be integrated into multiscale fuel performance models to improve predictions of stress development and structural evolution during reactor operation.

While added carbon can reduce the occurrence of carbon monoxide in uranium pellet fuels, the structural impacts have not been clear.

Adding carbon to tri-structural isotropic uranium fuels lead image

When designing the next generation of nuclear reactors, many researchers are turning to tri-structural isotropic (TRISO) fuels. These are uranium-bearing fuel kernels, typically uranium dioxide (UO2), surrounded by protective layers including pyrolytic carbon and silicon carbide to contain the reaction products. These fuels are cleaner and safer than traditional uranium fuels.

Read the full article at AIP:
https://www.aip.org/scilights/adding-carbon-to-tri-structural-isotropic-uranium-fuels