Irradiation of vibrated plutonium rods in DIORIT

H. Schumacher, Ludovicus Aerts, H. Bairiot, K. Bischoff, J. Peter, H. Rupar

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Abstract

Four vibrated fuel rods, 1 % Pu-enriched, have been irradiated in the
DIORIT research reactor at Würenlingen, Switzerland. The fuel achieved
maximum burn-ups between 3,000 and 10,000 MWd/t. U + Pu. Postirradiation
examinations have been performed in the hot cells at Würenlingen.
Two fuel fabrication techniques for the preparation of the fine fraction have
been selected (only this fraction contained plutonium) ;
- blended fuel, i. e. mechanically mixed Pu02 - and UO2 - fine powder fraction;
- solid solution fuel, i. e. co - precipitated (Pu0.067, U0.933) O2 fine powder fraction
The postirradiation examinations gave the following results :
- all four vibrated fuel rods behave quite satisfactorily ;
- at 790 w/cm maximum heat rating the centre temperature reached about
2,000°C;
- the blended fuel showed a somewhat higher fission gas release than the solid
solution fuel ;
- the solid solution fuel developed a central hole, possibly resulting from the
alumina content.
Original languageEnglish
PublisherSCK CEN
Number of pages59
StatePublished - Aug 1972
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameSCK CEN Reports
PublisherSCK CEN
No.BLG-469

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