Bond strength characterization of plasma sprayed zirconium on uranium alloy by microcantilever testing

K. Hollis, N. Mara, R. Field, T. Wynn, P. Dickerson

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

The future production of low enriched uranium nuclear fuel for test reactors requires a well-adhered diffusion barrier coating of zirconium (Zr) on the uranium/molybdenum (U-Mo) alloy fuel. In this study, the interfacial bond between plasma sprayed Zr coatings and U-Mo fuel has been characterized for localized bond strength by microcantilever beam testing. Test results have revealed the effect of specific flaws such as cracks and pores on the bond strength of interfaces with a sampling area of approximately 20 μm 2. TEM examination has shown the Zr/U-Mo interface to contain rows of very fine grains (5-30 nm) with the Zr in contact with UO2. Bond strengths of plasma sprayed samples have been measured that are similar to those of diffusion-bonded samples showing the potential for plasma sprayed Zr coatings to have high bond strength.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationInternational Thermal Spray Conference and Exposition, ITSC 2012 - Air, Land, Water and the Human Body
Subtitle of host publicationThermal Spray Science and Applications
PublisherASM International
Pages70-75
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)9781632666796
StatePublished - 2012
EventInternational Thermal Spray Conference and Exposition - Air, Land, Water and the Human Body: Thermal Spray Science and Applications, ITSC 2012 - Houston, TX, United States
Duration: May 21 2012May 24 2012

Publication series

NameProceedings of the International Thermal Spray Conference

Other

OtherInternational Thermal Spray Conference and Exposition - Air, Land, Water and the Human Body: Thermal Spray Science and Applications, ITSC 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityHouston, TX
Period5/21/125/24/12

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