Zirconium Alloys with Low Melting Points

Abstract

A novel class of low-melting Zr-based alloys has been developed. They are deep triple and quadruple eutectics with very low melting points from 690 to 860°C. Low-melting Zr-based alloys have been proposed as a matrix material for fuel elements with dispersed high-U fuel. Proposed fuel compositions have been developed with high thermal conductivity and U content (25–50% higher than in the case of VVER and PWR fuel rods). As applied to PWR and BWR reactors, they have some advantages compared to conventional uranium dioxide fuel pellets. The use of new dispersion fuel can improve neutronic characteristics of the reactors, increase burnup, reduce fuel temperature, and improve fuel efficiency.