Simple fabrication process for CeO2–MgO composite as surrogate for actinide-containing target for use in nuclear fuel

A simple fabrication process for CeO2–MgO composite as surrogate for actinide-containing target for use in nuclear fuel has been developed. The process is adaptable to present fuel manufacturing technology. The manufactured target has good characteristics, e.g. high density, good appearance, free of reaction phase, etc. In particular, the shape of CeO2 particles is nearly spherical and their dispersion is homogeneous. Thermal conductivity of the present target can be satisfactorily expressed by using Schulz's equation when CeO2 spheres are assumed as ideal with no anisotropy. These results indicate that the present simple process gives a composite which is comparable to that fabricated in a complicated process such as an advanced sol–gel supported process.