Characterisation of stainless steel–synroc interactions under hot isostatic pressing (HIPing) conditions

Stainless steel/synroc interactions under HIPing conditions (1280 °C/100 MPa/3 h) have been studied. The synroc material was based on the zirconolite-rich ceramic targeted for surplus Pu disposition. A ∼300 mm-thick complex reaction interface with 8 distinct layers has been identified. Although the Fe diffusion controlled interactions have changed the microstructures of the synroc phases at the interface, they do not affect the integrity of synroc and are unlikely to have any detrimental effect on this synroc derivative.