METHOD FOR PRODUCING A SINTERABLE URANDIOXYPE POWDER

摘要

In a method of preparing a sinterable uranium dioxide powder for use in nuclear fuel preparation, microwave radiation is used and microwave induction furnaces replace conventional electrical resistance furnaces, radiant heat transfer dryers and kilns. Specifically, a starting material comprising uranyl nitrate hexahydrate, ammonium diuranate or ammonium uranyl carbonate is heated in a microwave induction furnace until it decomposes. The decomposed material is heated in a microwave induction furnace in a reducing atmosphere until it is decomposed to uranium dioxide powder, the powder being cooled in a reducing atmosphere.