Microbeam analysis of irradiated nuclear fuel

Microbeam analysis is widely used in the nuclear power industry. It is used to characterise the as-fabricated fuel, for routine post-irradiated examination and for research into the mechanisms of phenomena that limit the energy production of the fuel. The techniques most commonly used are wavelength-dispersive electron probe microanalysis, scanning electron microscopy and secondary ion mass spectrometry. Other microbeam analysis techniques that have been successfully applied to irradiated nuclear fuel are transmission and replica electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence and micro X.-ray diffraction. Specific examples illustrating the past and present use of microbeam analysis in nuclear research establishments are presented with emphasis on the unique results they provide. As an aid to understanding, some basic facts about nuclear fuel rods and their irradiation are first given. This is followed by a description of features that set apart the microbeam analysis of high radioactive materials from standard practice.