Surface Analysis on Various Simulated Nuclear Fuel Samples

Abstract

A number of surface imaging techniques are being used to investigate the size, distribution, composition and number density of noble metal ε-particles (Mo-Ru-Rh-Pd) present in simulated spent nuclear fuel (SIMFUEL). Various SIMFUEL specimens were used to mimic different degrees of simulated burn up, from 1.5 at. % to 6 at. % burn-up. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is being used to determine the shape and percent composition of the metal particles, and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) to determine the size and number density of the particles on the surface.