Specimens of titanate ceramics containing approximately 10 mass% 238Pu were tested to determine the long-term effects of radiation-induced damage from the a decay of 239Pu that would have been disposed of in the nuclear-waste repository at Yucca Mountain. These tests provided information on the changes in bulk properties such as dimensions, densities, and chemical durability. Although these materials become amorphous at low doses, the specimens remained physically strong. Even after the radiation-induced swelling saturated, the specimens remained physically intact with no evidence for microcracking. Thus, in combination with results reported previously on similar materials, the material remains a physically viable material for the disposition of surplus weapons-grade Pu.
Revised: December 31, 2008 |
Published: January 15, 2008
Citation
Strachan D.M., R.D. Scheele, E.C. Buck, A.E. Kozelisky, R.L. Sell, R.J. Elovich, and W.C. Buchmiller. 2008.Radiation Damage Effects in Candidate Titanates for Pu Disposition: Zirconolite.Journal of Nuclear Materials 372, no. 1:16-31.PNNL-SA-40993.doi:10.1016/j.jnucmat.2007.01.278