Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) investigations in the CeO2-ThO2-ZrO2 system

Several specimens of CeO2-ThO2-ZrO2 of nominal compositions Ce0.40Th0.20Zr0.40O2, Ce0.35Th0.35Zr0.30O2, Ce0.60Th0.20Zr0.20O2, Ce0.50Th0.25Zr0.25O2, Th0.40Zr0.60O2, Ce0.10Th0.10Zr0.80O2 and Ce0.30Th0.35Zr0.35O2 were annealed at 1400 ± 2 °C for 48 h and subsequently quenched to room temperature in order to retain the high-temperature phase. These specimens were subjected to detailed electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). All the compositions were found to be biphasic. Detailed compositional characterization and microstructure of these phases are also described in this manuscript. Based on the volume fraction of both the phases and microstructural evidences in these bulk compositions and phase relations at 1400 °C, an isothermal cross-section for the ternary system is being proposed.