Characterization and thermal expansion of Th–10Zr alloy

Thorium–zirconium (Th–Zr) alloys have been less extensively studied as compared to uranium–zirconium (U–Zr) alloys and hence, literature available on the Th–Zr system is scarce. In the Th–Zr binary phase diagram, thorium–rich solvus line is shown by a dotted line till date. In this study, Th–10 wt%Zr alloy was synthesised by arc melting, the as-cast alloy was annealed at 1100 °C and quenched. X-ray diffraction pattern of the Th–10Zr showed peaks corresponding to α-thorium. The microstructure revealed a lamellar structure. The elastic properties showed a substantial increase in mechanical strength of the alloy. Coefficient of thermal expansion was determined using a dilatometer.