Microstructure and stability of sintered lithium metazirconate pellets

Because lithium metazirconate is a promising candidate ceramic breeding material, Li2ZrO3 pellets were fabricated with tailored microstructure characteristics. Grain size, density, and open porosity distribution are considered to be the main parameters governing tritium release, particularly for low-temperature irradiations. Also, the pellets must remain (dimensionally) stable when subjected to the elevated working temperatures during irradiation. The microstructure, generated by three distinct Li2ZrO3 powder synthesis techniques, is characterized. Porosity, permeability, and thermal stability of the three materials are evaluated. Results are discussed in the paper