Thermal conductivity of uranium metal and uranium-zirconium alloys fabricated via powder metallurgy

This study focused on the preparation of metallic uranium and uranium-zirconium alloys to measure the effect significant porosity had on thermal diffusivity from 20 degrees C to 300 degrees C. Precursor uranium powders were prepared through a hydride de-hydride process to obtain a < 70 mesh powder. The sample compositions were uranium, uranium 5 mass% zirconium and 10 mass% zirconium. Higher porosity decreased the material's thermal conductivity. Thermal conductivity was also reduced with increased zirconium content. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.