Dual phase MgO-ZrO2 ceramics for use in LWR inert matrix fuel

To address the low thermal conductivity of the ZrO2-based inert matrix fuel and the instability in water of the MgO-based inert matrix fuel, the dual-phase MgO-ZrO2 ceramics are proposed as a matrix for light water reactor fuel for actinide transmutation and Pu burning. It is envisioned that in a dual-phase system MgO will act as efficient heat conductor while ZrO2 will provide protection from the coolant attack. This paper describes results of fabrication, characterization and hydration testing of MgO-ZrO2 ceramics containing 30-70 wt% of MgO.