Particle distribution analysis on stainless steel

Abstract

It is necessary to develop high uranium density targets with low enriched uranium (LEU) in order to improve the medical radioisotope production efficiency. In this study, we developed a methodology to analyze the particle distribution inside the dispersion plate using the X-ray CT technique. Stainless steel powder was used as a surrogate for uranium metal particles, and it was confirmed that CT scan was suitable for observing the internal microstructure of the dispersion plate. A calculation algorithm for estimating homogeneity of internal particles was constructed and validated by calculation results on virtual data. Furthermore, the effect of rolling reduction ratio on the internal particle homogeneity was analyzed using a newly-developed methodology. This analysis contributes to improved safety and performance of high density LEU targets.