Fuels Development for Minor Actinide Transmutation

The research work at the Institute for Transuranium Elements (ITU) on fuels for transmutation concerns primarily the development of fabrication processes adapted to highly radioactive materials. Processes for manufacturing oxides and nitrides are described, as well as the main irradiation programmes implemented to demonstrate the in-pile behaviour of these new compounds. This work is carried out within European research collaboration networks, and is largely financed by Nuclear Fission Framework Programme of the European Commission. ITU is strongly involved in the development of fuels and targets for transmutation. In particular, we are participating and contributing to several European research networks on this subject. Our major interest lies in the demonstration of new fabrication processes and the determination of material properties both in and out of pile. This includes the participation in irradiation experiments with our European partners. Such collaboration should be extended internationally. The new laboratory to be started in 2002 will be an important milestone in our transmutation research programme. (authors)