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THORIUM AND THORIUM-URANIUM ALLOY VACUUM INDUCTION MELTING AND CASTING

Journal Article · · Mod. Castings
OSTI ID:4705129
Refractory oxide-coated graphite was investigated as a crucible material for producing Th- U castings. Oxides of Y, Th, Zr, and Be were applied to graphite crucibles by wash coating and, when possible, by flame spraying. Thorium, as well as alloys of Th-1 to 13 wt. % U, were prepared by vacuum induction casting. The castings were evaluated on the basis of number and intensity of surface and internal defects, homogeneity of composition, and metallurgical properties. Effectiveness of the refractory oxide coating was measured in terms of crucible attack and degree of carbon contamination in the Th- U castings. Best results were obtained with wash coatings of Y/sub 2/O/sub 3/ and ZrO/sub 2/ and a flame sprayed coating of ZrO/sub 2/. ThO/sub 2/ was found to be unsuitable and BeO requires additional investigation. (auth)
Research Organization:
Atomics International, Canoga Park, Calif.
NSA Number:
NSA-17-012599
OSTI ID:
4705129
Journal Information:
Mod. Castings, Journal Name: Mod. Castings Vol. Vol: 42
Country of Publication:
Country unknown/Code not available
Language:
English