JRP 07-09

Partners

EC-JRC-ITU

Contact

Dr. F. Wastin
ITU, Postfach 2340, D-76125 Karlsruhe, Germany
E-mail e-mail

Electrochemical synthesis of actinide intermetallic compounds

Status

 
Terminated - Planned from November 2007 till January 2009

Goals

The project intends to develop and implement a new actinide intermetallic compounds synthesis method at/or close to room temperature by electrochemical techniques. This method should allow the preparation of new type of compounds and improve the purity of samples obtained. Uranium binary compounds synthesis will first be addressed and the method feasibility tested on ternary systems. The knowledge gained will then be transferred of transuranium intermetallics. Physical property characterisation and sample texture of samples obtained by electrochemical process and conventional hightemperature synthesis route may also be compared.

Expected results

Expected impact on applied issues in the field of nuclear fission energy

The identification and study of new actinide compounds, and the development of new synthetic routes, are fundamental for the understanding of basic properties, like hybridization and chemical bonding character of actinide compounds. Moreover, they can be interesting for the development of new materials, in particular for application as nuclear fuels and spallation targets. The present project is part of a fundamental effort which is expected to lead, in a long term, to the capability to design materials accordingly to the required properties.

Expected impact on long term integration

The research project will formalise the already established, although informal, collaboration between the two participant institutions. It will be also strengthened by young scientists exchange.

Reports