Physical properties of europium sesquioxide

Europium sesquioxide (Eu2O3) is a neutron-absorbing material of potential use in reactor control rods and is being evaluated for use in fast reactors. This paper presents the results of physical and mechanical property measurements performed on unirradiated europia. The material exists in two useful crystallographic forms. Both the monoclinic form and a cubic variety, stabilized by the addition of 17 wt% molybdenum trioxide (MoO3), have been examined. The properties reported are density, specific heat, thermal diffusivity and conductivity, thermal expansivity, Young's modulus, and strength. The data are compared with similar information in the literature. (Auth.)