METHODS OF FORMING TRIURANIUM DISILICIDE STRUCTURES, AND RELATED FUEL RODS FOR LIGHT WATER REACTORS

摘要

A method of forming a triuranium disilicide structure comprises forming a mixture comprising uranium particles and silicon particles. The mixture is pressed to form a compact comprising the uranium particles and the silicon particles. The compact is subjected to an arc melting process to form a preliminary triuranium disilicide structure. The preliminary triuranium disilicide structure is subjected to a comminution process to form a fine triuranium disilicide powder. The fine triuranium disilicide powder is pressed to form a green triuranium disilicide structure. The green triuranium disilicide structure is then sintered. Additional methods of forming a triuranium disilicide structure are also described, as are fuel rods for light water reactors.