Open AccessCompatibility of $sup 244$Cm$sub 2$O$sub 3$ with containment materials for electric power generator systems
Author(s) -
J.R. DiStefano
Publication year - 1975
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Reports
DOI - 10.2172/4163434
Subject(s) - materials science , curium , helium , nuclear engineering , analytical chemistry (journal) , radiochemistry , actinide , chemistry , nuclear chemistry , atomic physics , physics , americium , engineering , chromatography
Curium-244 sesquioxide has many properties that makes it attractive as a heat source in electric power generator systems. Current radioisotopic thermoelectric generator designs generally specify fuel-containing interface temperatures from 800 to 1400$sup 0$C. Results of compatibility tests of $sup 244$Cm$sub 2$O$sub 3$ with a variety of materials are reported. Test conditions included 5000 h at 900 and 1400$sup 0$C, 2500 h at 1100$sup 0$C, and static helium and dynamic vacuum environments. Materials included graphite, ThO$sub 2$, superalloys, noble metals, and refractory metals. (auth