On the thermal conductivity of inert-matrix fuels containing americium oxide

Literature data on the thermal conductivity of americium oxides and americium-oxide containing compounds have been assessed. The influence of temperature and stoichiometry on the thermal conductivity of both solid solutions and heterogeneous composites of americium oxides and inert-matrix materials are discussed. The implications of the thermal conductivity on the choice of the inert-matrix material are examined. (orig.)