| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2025 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Elucidating Microstructural Evolution Under Extreme Environments
|
| Presentation Title |
Addressing Casting Failure With Defect Analysis of α-Plutonium |
| Author(s) |
Theresa Marie Kucinski |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Theresa Marie Kucinski |
| Abstract Scope |
Successful casting of α-plutonium remains challenging with the formation of defects in the material potentially contributing to failure. Defect analysis at the microstructural level can provide more information about casting failure by highlighting the relationship between crystal structure and defect formation, including micro- and macro-cracking. Improved defect analysis post-casting can ultimately aid in creating a more consistent casting product with better process control. We use scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) for analysis of unalloyed α-plutonium samples at the microstructural level. Characterizing the defects in post-analysis will provide insights into the influence of crystallographic structure on the failure modes of cast α-plutonium. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Nuclear Materials, Characterization, |