Production Test IP-653-D: Irradiation service request HAPO 300, irradiation of a tungsten matrix UO{sub 2} cermet plate in the KW snout facility
Cemets are attractive as fuel for nuclear reactors because of their relatively high thermal conductivity and their apparent ability to withstand very high temperatures for prolonged periods of time. A number of cermet fuel specimens have been successfully irradiated at temperatures greater than 2000 C for periods of up to six weeks. Two cermet fuel plates described herein have successfully operated, in the snout facility, at {approximately}3000 C for four hours each. This continuation of the program for twelve more capsules is to investigate the diffusion characteristics of UO{sub 2} and fission products from the tungsten matrix and to studymore »