Expansion of solidified lead bismuth eutectic

Lead bismuth eutectic (LBE) has been proposed both as spallation target and as coolant in a future accelerator driven system (ADS). Therefore this alloy should be fully characterised and its physical properties should be completely known before use. Experiments on the volumetric expansion of LBE were performed by variation of cooling rates, holding times and different starting temperatures of the melt. X-ray diffraction and optical metallurgical examination on LBE has been carried out in order to clarify the reasons for the volumetric expansion of LBE. Additionally thermal expansion of LBEsolid was revealed. The results achieved will be discussed and at the end a model assumption will be given trying to explain the processes taking place to an ideal eutectic mixture.