Abstract
The surface composition of U(AlxSi1-x)3 alloy (x = 0.57) and its interactions with oxygen, at elevated temperatures, were studied, utilizing Auger electron spectroscopy, X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy and direct recoil spectrometry. Heating the alloy in ultra-high vacuum, results in aluminum (and some silicon) segregation to the surface, forming, above 700 K, a ∼0.6 nm self-assembly capping layer. Exposing the surface alloy to oxygen, at temperatures up to 500 K, causes oxidation of the uranium and the aluminum components, while silicon is only slightly oxidized. Above 600 K, only the aluminum segregated overlayer is oxidized, forming a passivation layer that inhibits further oxidation of the alloy.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.