Further interpretation of sintering data in zirconia-urania mixed oxide powder compacts

Sintering studies of zirconia-urania mixed oxide powder compacts (in steps of 5.0% urania up to a maximum of 20.0% addition) were carried out at temperatures of 1000-1400deg C for various soaking periods. The sintering rate with respect to temperature versus temperature plot attained a maximum at the phase transformation temperature of zirconia. This temperature was independent of the amount of urania addition. Sintering data were re-analysed and it was observed that solid solution formation is not likely to occur and sintering of like particles of zirconia influences the overall densification of the mixed oxide compacts. (orig.)