For successful nuclear nonproliferation initiatives, authorities must be able to detect and characterize radioactive sources—but how can they do so if the radioactive material was removed before they arrived? Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a technique that allows retrospective characterization of radioactive sources.
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Tokamaks, a leading candidate for practical fusion reactors, are moving from using carbon to using tungsten to protect a tokamak’s walls—but plasma instabilities can erode tungsten. Scientists look to understand the physical mechanisms driving this erosion.
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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