Development of powder metallurgy technique for synthesis of U3Si2 dispersoid

The Indian research reactor APSARA, which uses HEU based UAl3 fuel dispersed in aluminium matrix, is to undergo core conversion to LEU based U3Si2 dispersoid in aluminium matrix fuel. Work has been initiated at BARC, to prepare uranium silicide (U3Si2) compound using powder processing route in place of vacuum induction melting or arc melting route. This paper describes the preparation flow-sheet of the U3Si2 dispersoid by an innovative powder processing route with uranium metal powder and silicon powder as starting materials.