To accelerate the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) in pursuit of decarbonization goals, Canadian researchers are exploring the behavior of advanced nuclear fuels for these systems. Tests conducted at the Canadian Light Source research facility characterized oxidation performance of single-phase thorium-uranium mixed oxide fuel, a composition expected to increase SMR operating efficiency.

The Hard X-ray Micro-Analysis (HXMA) beamline system at the facility was used by scientists from Canadian Nuclear Laboratories and the University of Saskatchewan to confirm the similar distribution of the two elements in the mixed fuel oxides. Oxidation trials were conducted under conditions relevant to defective fuel operating conditions.

Nuclear fuel tests were conducted with the HXMA beamline system. Source: Canadian Light Source/University of Saskatchewan

The study published in the Journal of Nuclear Materials will improve the fundamental understanding of post-defect fuel behavior in terms of fission gas release, grain growth, thermal conductivity and the diffusivity of fission products.