Densification of Inert Matrix Fuels Using Naturally-occurring Material as a Sintering Additive

Abstract

AbstractWe proposed a new concept for densification of inert matrix fuels containing minor actinides. In this concept, magnesium silicates which are both a naturally-occurring material and asbestos waste were used as a sintering additive which protects public health by safely disposing of the asbestos waste. In this study, the effects of magnesium silicate additives on the densification behaviors of MgO, Mo and CeO2 were experimentally investigated. The densities of MgO and CeO2 pellets increased with only 1 wt.% additives of MgSiO3 and Mg2SiO4. The densities of Mo pellets showed little change with additives.