Microstructure analysis of U3Si2-Al fuel plate elements with 4.8 gu/cm3 density pre-irradiation

Plate-shaped nuclear fuel has long been used for research reactors, especially in Indonesia. One of the research reactor fuel developments is to increase the density of uranium to improve fuel efficiency. The microstructure of fuel plate element (FPE) U3Si2−Al has been observed at 4.8 grams U/cm3. The samples were prepared for metallographic preparation including cutting, mounting, and sanding from grids 320, 500, 800, 1200, and 2400. The purpose of this microstructure observation was to evaluate the metallographic preparation process. especially the sanding process to produce an FPE surface micrograph of 4.8 grams U/cm3 with a magnification of 50 to 250 times, overall, it is relatively clear although there are still scratches on the U3Si2 dispersant and see the interface interaction between U3Si2 and the Al matrix. Samples of FPE U3Si2/Al with a 4.8 gr/cm3 which have been prepared, which is carried out from the cutting process using low speed cutting and grinding to a mesh size of 2400, has produced a good microstructure. There is no interaction between U3Si2 and the Al matrix. The shape and distribution of the dispersant particles are clearly visible and some defects such as cracks are clearly visible. However, there are still scratches on the sample that is not from the traces of 2400 sandpaper grit. In addition, the composition of the other phases is not clearly visible, so it is necessary to prepare the sample until the condition of the sample is etched. The condition of the etched sample is expected to provide better and more comprehensive microstructural results.