Exploration and Research on Preparation Technology of UCO Kernels

In view of the large-scale use requirements of UCO kernels with high fuel efficiency, long life and good safety, the uranyl nitrate dissolution process, disperse gel process and roasting process were studied in the paper to determine the optimal process parameters for the preparation of UCO kernels by pure external gel method. The results show that when the dosage of U₃O₈ powder is 1 000 g, the optimal dissolution parameters are 425 mL nitric acid and 850 mL deionized water. When the volume of uranyl nitrate is 100 mL and the dosage of urea is 37.8 g, the optimal dosage of thickener is 90.93 g, which can ensure that the microspheres have the certain strength after dispersion. It will not produce crack defects in the drying process, and can ensure its good pelletization and dispersion effect. When the U/C molar ratio of the raw material is 1∶1-1∶2, UCO kernels containing 10%-15%UC₂ phase can be prepared. The core morphology is relatively uniform, the sphericity is good, the surface is smooth, and there is no contamination and inclusion.