Exploring cluster formation in uranium oxidation using high resolution X-ray spectroscopy at elevated temperatures.

ABSTRACT: Uranium dioxide (UO₂) is a complex material with significant relevance to nuclear energy, materials science, and fundamental research. Understanding its high-temperature behavior is crucial for developing new uranium-based materials and improving nuclear fuel efficiency in nuclear reactors. Here we study the evolution of uranium state during the oxidation of UO₂ in air at temperatures up to 550 °C using the in situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy in high energy resolution fluorescence detection mode at the U M₄ edge, combined with electronic structure calculations. Our data reveal a complex sequence of events occurring over minutes and hours at elevated temperatures, including changes in the electronic and local structure, 5 f electron occupancy

SUBMITTER: Bazarkina EF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12006023 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature