Advanced Ceramics R&D Scientist
Fabbricazioni Nucleari (Ora F.N. - Nuove Tecnologie E Servizi Avanzati)
Bosco Marengo, Piedmont, Italy
R&D activity on advanced ceramic materials, with ENEA (Atomic Energy National Agency) program concerning innovative nuclear fuels, based on inert/non-proliferant matrix, for Plutonium burning into conventional LWRs.Tasks: ZrO2 based Inert Matrix production process optimization. Production of high-purity oxide ceramic powders by Gel-Supported-Precipitation and physical characterisation (granulometry, specific surface area). Pellets production through sinterisation of die-pressed micro-spheres. Evaluation of process parameters effects on the simulated fuel. Pellets characterisation (He-Hg-H2O densities, porosity, picnometry, material structure through Scanning Electron Microscope, X-Ray Diffractometer and Energy Dispersive Analysis of X-rays, mechanical testing).A comprehensive study of nuclear fuel technology and a thorough understanding of physical-chemical properties and measures were important phases of this activity. I personally used experimental plants for the production of the ceramics and coordinated the research.