The thesis topic focuses on MOX fuels with controlled porosity. The student will have to develop a concentrated aqueous suspension in solid phase, dispersed and stable over time with respect to sedimentation. This suspension will be optimized using an experimental design. The tests to be carried out will typically be zeta potential and rheology measurements. The parameters to be taken into account will be the dry matter content as well as the nature and concentration of certain additives (dispersants, surfactants, organic binders) that can be incorporated into the formulation.
In a second step, the texturing conditions by the controlled growth of ice crystals will be explored, again using an experimental design.
After freeze-drying and sintering, the objective is to obtain a residual porosity controlled in size, morphology and interconnection. The sintered microstructures will be characterized by ceramography, scanning electron microscopy, image analysis and X-ray tomography on a line capable of accommodating radioactive materials.