Advancements in americium-based ceramics for Radioisotope Power Systems
Material selection, fabrication and thermoelectric effect demonstration
Jean François Vigier (European Commission - Joint Research Centre)
Daniel Freis (European Commission - Joint Research Centre)
Rudy J.M. Konings (TU Delft - RST/Reactor Physics and Nuclear Materials, European Commission - Joint Research Centre)
Jérémie Manaud (European Commission - Joint Research Centre)
Philippe E. Raison (European Commission - Joint Research Centre)
Patrick Lajarge (European Commission - Joint Research Centre)
Sebastien Gardeur (European Commission - Joint Research Centre)
Sorin Octavian Vălu (European Commission - Joint Research Centre)
Jean Christophe Griveau (European Commission - Joint Research Centre)
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Abstract
This work provides an in-depth analysis of the extensive research and development activities on americium-based ceramics for space applications, particularly as heat source for radioisotope power generation. Our pioneering efforts focus on synthesizing and characterizing various americium ceramics with fluorite, monazite, perovskite, zircon, and pyrochlore structures, and assessing their potential for use in Radioisotope Power Systems (RPSs). This study identifies uranium-stabilised cubic americium oxide as the best candidate among the ceramic forms analysed, due to its superior stability and performance under extreme conditions relevant to space missions. The review emphasises the unique facilities and methodologies employed, including remote-handling techniques and advanced material characterization, to overcome the challenges posed by the high radiation dose and specific activity of 241Am when working with gram quantities.
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