O/M-Ratio Measurement Techniques

Abstract

Coulometric titration (CT) is described and shown to be a viable method for measuring O/Mratios in defected fuels. Radial and longitudinal profiles have been obtained. New methods that have the potential to provide O/M-ratios in small zones (1-30 um3 , c.f. ~10 mm3 for CT) are being investigated in order to be able to identify higher oxidation phases at grain boundaries, cracks and interfaces between pellets. With its ability to provide oxidizing as well as reducing atmospheres, CT can be used to make materials in controlled oxygen atmospheres and to compare oxidation rates between different fuel types.