R&D on Surrogate Kernel Fabrication in Support of Reaktor Daya Eksperimental (RDE) Project

Abstract R&D program on HTGR fuel to support the RDE project has been outlined and is aimed develop national capabilities nuclear technology. The external sol-gel technology adopted for fabrication of kernels. Laboratory scale work ongoing at Center Nuclear Fuel Technology (PTBBN) BATAN study various parameters involved in process kernel including tuning related droplet formation (feed flow rate, vibrator frequency, NH3 gas rate), optimizing chemical formulation broth preparation, treatments aging, washing, drying process, thermal treatment densification In this early stage, zirconium precursors were used manufacture surrogate kernels ytrria-stabilized zirconia. steps include casting, aging-washing-drying gel microspheres, calcination sintering, characterization sintered (surface morphology, density, diameter/sphericity, solid phase). Stable cast droplets from 1 mm nozzle diameter was optimized by adjusting feed flowrate 30 ml/min, viscosity 45-60 cP, vibrating frequency 100 Hz. Presolidification skin a working rate 3.5 - 4 L/min. Addition urea with mole ratio urea/metal 2.5/1.0 gave most preferable results based SEM examination crack morphological structure. Control opaqueness sol can be done portioning addition urea, where portion added decomposing temperature around 85°C, while another lower temperature. desirable effect reduction during heat microspheres. Increase metal concentration an increase when other sol-to-gel conversion kept unvaried. Phase determination X-Ray Diffractometer indicates that phase ceria-stabilized zirconia prepared precursor composition 16% yttrium zirconium-yttrium yttria-stabilized 8YSZ cubic phase.