Optimization of Uranium-Doped Americium Oxide Synthesis for Space Application.

Abstract

Americium 241 is a potential alternative to plutonium 238 as an energy source for missions into deep space or to the dark side of planetary bodies. In order to use the 241Am isotope for radioisotope thermoelectric generator or radioisotope heating unit (RHU) production, americium materials need to be developed. This study focuses on the stabilization of a cubic americium oxide phase using uranium as the dopant. After optimization of the material preparation, (Am0.80U0.12Np0.06Pu0.02)O1.8 has been successfully synthesized to prepare a 2.96 g pellet containing 2.13 g of 241Am for fabrication of a small scale RHU prototype. Compared to the use of pure americium oxide, the use of uranium-doped americium oxide leads to a number of improvements from a material properties and safety point of view, such as good behavior under sintering conditions or under alpha self-irradiation. The mixed oxide is a good host for neptunium (i.e., the 241Am daughter element), and it has improved safety against radioactive material dispersion in the case of accidental conditions.