Research and development of MgO based matrix fuel

Study of 15% vol. PuO2 + 85% vol. MgO without 238U pellet fabrication was carried out. The work has been carried out for uranium dioxide simulator fuel composition fabrication by means of mechanical mixing of individual initial UO2 and MgO powders and by coprecipitation from aqueous solutions. Optimal technological parameters for the qualitative sintered pellets (with regulating density and without defects) fabrication has been established. Pre-irradiation testing of specimens has been carried out. The aim consists in examination of fuel-clad interaction for the system UO2 + MgO - cladding at clad operating temperature (700 deg. C) and at central fuel hole temperature (1200 deg. C). PuO2 + MgO pellet fabrication follows under optimal condition states out during R and D of uranium dioxide simulator fuel. Mean density of sintered pellets is 4,3 g/cm3 (i.e. 90% of the theoretical value) physical configuration of pellets being satisfactory. Fuel components regeneration was carried out. (author). 8 figs, 3 tabs