Development of zirconium-cobalt beds for recovery, storage and supply of tritium

Abstract

A ZrCo intermetallic compound is proposed as the material for recovery, storage and supply of gaseous tritium. It is a substitute for the uranium that has been extensively used for this purpose in spite of its restricted handling as a nuclear fuel material. Pressure-composition isotherms of a ZrCoH2 system were investigated and this material proved to be applicable and advantageous. Some ZrCo beds were designed, fabricated and tested for actual use. A bed for the handling of large amounts of hydrogen isotopes was developed. The test establishes ZrCo beds as practical components for tritium service.