Nuclear

Preventing ASR in nuclear reactor radiation shielding concrete

By Lisa McDonald / November 27, 2018

Polish researchers tested five high-density aggregate possibilities for nuclear power plant construction and found the aggregates with microcrystalline quartz were susceptible to alkali-silica reactions.

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Vitrification process turns radioactive waste into durable glass for safe disposal

By Faye Oney / June 8, 2018

Researchers have successfully converted radioactive waste into glass through vitrification at the Hanford Nuclear Site. The test is part of an overall plan to send low-activity waste directly to the vitrification facility via Direct Feed Low-Activity Waste system.

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Preventing corrosion with ultra-thin layers of aluminum oxide

By Faye Oney / April 20, 2018

Researchers have discovered that a solid aluminum oxide protection layer can deform like a liquid, possibly protecting metals from environmental elements. Their discovery could solve degradation problems that contribute to rust and corrosion.

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Fusion cast refractories for nuclear waste vitrification, plus much more, in March 2018 ACerS Bulletin

By April Gocha / February 15, 2018

The March 2018 issue of the ACerS Bulletin—featuring stories about fusion cast refractories for nuclear waste vitrification, the World Materials Research Institutes Forum, micromilling ceramic nanoparticulate materials, new NSF awards, and more—is now available online.

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Tobermorite combines with white graphene to make heat- and radiation-resistant ceramic

By Faye Oney / January 26, 2018

Researchers have created a high-performance ceramic composite that is strong, durable, and resistant to heat and radiation. The findings could be useful in industries that require highly functional and durable ceramic materials—such as nuclear power plants, aerospace, and oil and gas industries.

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Membrane system converts carbon dioxide into fuel, chemical feedstocks

By Faye Oney / December 1, 2017

A research duo has developed a system for converting CO2 emissions from power plants into fuel for cars, trucks, and planes. Their process could also provide an additional revenue stream to offset costs.

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Remote sensing technique diagnoses damage in irradiated materials at a distance

By April Gocha / June 15, 2017

MIT scientists recently reported that a novel laser-based spectroscopy technique can sensitively detect small imperfections in materials, opening new possibilities for monitoring irradiated materials in place in real time.

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Disorderly conduct: Simulations reveal irradiated materials are surprisingly disordered, question safety of vitrified nuclear waste

By April Gocha / June 8, 2017

New atomistic simulations by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles and Oak Ridge National Lab are revealing that irradiated materials are even more disordered that previously thought—calling into question the safety of vitrified nuclear waste.

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Video: Graphene membrane filters could revolutionize industries like nuclear, pharmaceuticals

By Stephanie Liverani / January 6, 2016

It may be a new year, but the buzz surrounding graphene and its potential across many applications continues to percolate. Check out the latest research from The University of Manchester in England, including a video that breaks down the magic of this versatile material.

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Spending at nation’s federal R&D centers down—again

By Jessica McMathis / May 7, 2015

The majority of the nation’s federally-funded R&D centers slashed spending in fiscal year 2013 by more than $1 billion over the previous year.

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