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Journal articles
Molecular dynamics simulation of energetic uranium recoil damage in zircon
Abstract : Defect production and amorphization due to energetic uranium recoils in zircon (ZrSiO$_4$), which is a promising ceramic nuclear waste form, is studied using molecular dynamics simulations with a partial charge model. An algorithm that distinguishes between undamaged crystal, crystalline defects and amorphous regions is used to develop a fundamental understanding of the primary damage state. The damage consists of under-coordinated Zr and polymerised Si leading to amorphization and phase separation on a nanometer scale into Zr-and Si-rich regions. This separation could play an important role in the experimentally observed formation of nanoscale ZrO$_2$ in ZrSiO$_4$ irradiated at elevated temperatures. The observed amorphisation and the associated volume expansion have the potential to enhance leaching of cations by providing diffusion pathways for cations and water molecules.
Cited literature [17 references]
https://hal-cea.archives-ouvertes.fr/cea-02513503
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Submitted on : Friday, March 20, 2020 - 4:55:08 PM
Last modification on : Monday, December 13, 2021 - 9:16:10 AM
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Contributor : Bibliothèque Cadarache Connect in order to contact the contributor
Submitted on : Friday, March 20, 2020 - 4:55:08 PM
Last modification on : Monday, December 13, 2021 - 9:16:10 AM
Long-term archiving on: : Sunday, June 21, 2020 - 4:23:52 PM
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