Investigation of the Thermal Stability of NdxScyZri_x_y0 2.8 Inert Matrix Fuel Materials

Abstract

The structure and thermal stability of a series of Nd_xSc_yZr_1-x-yO_2-δ inert matrix fuel materials have been studied. The materials were analyzed using powder X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. This approach allows for an analysis of both the long-range and local structures in these materials. The results showed that the ternary Nd_xZr_1-xO_2-δ and Sc_yZr_1-yO_2-δ materials were not stable when annealed at 1400°C, and that the quaternary Nd_xSc_yZr_1-x-yO_2-δ materials were stable when annealed if y ≥ 0.10. This study shows that these materials may be sensitive to changes in composition, and this should be accounted for when considering the suitability of the Nd_xSc_yZr_1-x-yO_2-δ materials for inert matrix fuel applications.