Flowability analysis of uranium dioxide powder at different temperatures containing different lubricants

Powder flowability characteristics are often intentionally modified in order to improve their production process. The UO2 pellet manufacturing process can consist of many steps, e.g. milling, granulation, homogenization, die filling for pressing, etc. By the addition of flow additives, lubricants or glidants the desired workability can be achieved. Temperature also influences the powder processability, leading to an easier or more complex powder flow. The work aims to determine some flowability characteristics for UO2 powder at different temperatures. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.