Phase Evolution and Crystallographic Characterization of Recycled Actinide-Bearing Nuclear Fuels Using Synchrotron X-Ray Techniques

This study aims to characterize the crystallographic evolution of phases in nuclear fuel fabricated from a blend of UO2 and recycled
actinides (Pu, Am, Np) across key fabrication stages. The goal is to explore how the integration of actinides influences the phase composition
and stability during fuel synthesis, with the aim of optimizing the performance and longevity of recycled nuclear fuels. Advanced techniques
of Micro-XRD and DAFS at ESRF BM20 will be used to investigate phase transitions, crystallographic defects, material heterogeneity and
charge compensation at each fabrication stage. The study will also examine how each fabrication step – from precursor to final sintered
pellet – influences phase formation and material integrity. Ultimately, this research will support the sustainable development of advanced
nuclear fuels for a closed fuel cycle