Dry synthesis of brannerite (UTi₂O₆) by mechanochemical treatment

Abstract A powder mixture of UO 2 and TiO was mechanochemically treated in a planetary ball mill under Ar atmosphere for 1 h using tungsten carbide vial balls as the milling medium. Such mechanochemical (MC) treatment reduced crystallinity . The heated at 700–1,300°C 6 analyzed by X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive spectroscopy, absorption fine structure analysis. For comparison, without MC same conditions. UTi O did not form below 1,100°C only starting materials were observed. At 1,200 1,300°C, small amount equal amounts formed, respectively. sample produced nearly pure containing impurities when above 900°C h. highly crystalline uniform regardless synthesis temperature. It is suggested that formation promoted treatment.