Phase Evolution in the CaZrTi₂O₇-Dy₂Ti₂O₇ System: A Potential Host Phase for Minor Actinide Immobilization.

ABSTRACT: Zirconolite is considered to be a suitable wasteform material for the immobilization of Pu and other minor actinide species produced through advanced nuclear separations. Here, we present a comprehensive investigation of Dy³⁺ incorporation within the self-charge balancing zirconolite Ca_1-xZr_1-xDy_2xTi₂O₇ solid solution, with the view to simulate trivalent minor actinide immobilization. Compositions in the substitution range 0.10 ≤ x ≤ 1.00 (Δx = 0.10) were fabricated by a conventional mixed oxide synthesis, with a two-step sintering regime at 1400 °C in air for 48 h. Three distinct coexisting phase fields were identified, with single-phase zirconolite-2M identified only for x = 0.10.

SUBMITTER: Blackburn LR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9019813 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature