COMPATIBILITY OF $sup 238$Pu DIOXIDE WITH PLATINUM AND PLATINUM--RHODIUM ALLOYS: INTERIM REPORT.

Abstract

This report presents a summary of compatibility tests conducted to date between production grade ^^^PuOg and platinum and platinum-rhodium alloys. Test periods were as long as 360 days, and most of the work was done at 800, 1000, and 1200°C. Samples were analyzed by means of metallography, mlcrohardness measurements, x-ray diffraction, and electron microprobe analysis. A chronology of the program to date is presented along with a discussion of the various results. The effects of impurities in the fuel, the presence of molybdenum or tantalum in the system, as well as the effects of a reducing atmosphere are presented and discussed. Attempts are made to interpret the results in terms of possible mechanisms .

Plutonia Aerodynamic Disk (PAD) summary report

“…However, reaction of platinum and platinum-rhodium alloys with plutonia has been observed in reducing atmospheres at 1000°C (see Ref. 7).…”