The stability of uranium carbides in sodium-bonded stainless steel cladding has been studied in long term compatibility tests at 1000, 1200, and 16000F, out of pile. No apparent carburization of the cladding occurs when the carbon content of the U-C is 4.8 wt % or below. Extensive carburization of Type 304 and Type 347 stainless steels occurs at 1000°F and above, when the carbon content of the U-C exceeds 4.8 wt %. The dispersed UC2 phase in hyperstoichiometric uranium carbide is the carbon source. The degree of cladding carburization increases with the carbon content of the U-C composition.
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