The plutonium-hydrogen reaction: SEM characterization of product morphology

The product morphology of the hydrogen reaction with plutonium near the visibly observable reaction front, which separates the hydrided zone from the unreacted metal zone, has been investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results indicate the existence of a mixed phase of metal and metal hydride, located some 20-30 μm ahead of the visibly hydrided-zone. The mixed phase regions are often located next to a grain boundary network and exhibit rays of hydride advancing toward the unreacted metal regions. Analysis indicates that hydrogen transport and therefore the hydriding reaction are preferable along the grain boundary network and defects in the metal structure rather than through a homogeneous intragrain reaction. Product fracture and formation of small hydride particles during hydriding are likely results of such inhomogeneous growth.