China Gadolinium Oxide Neutron Absorbing Cores - Top Suppliers and Factory for Nuclear and Optical Applications
Neutron Absorption and Nuclear Performance
Extremely high thermal neutron absorption cross-section
Gadolinium oxide (Gd₂O₃) is one of the materials with the highest thermal neutron absorption cross-section in nature (~49,000 barns), far surpassing materials such as boron carbide (B₄C) and silicon carbide (SiC) in terms of thermal neutron capture and absorption efficiency, thereby effectively terminating chain reactions.
Radiation stability
It maintains good structural integrity in strong radiation fields, with slow performance degradation and a long service life.
Low radioactive byproducts
Compared to other neutron-absorbing materials (such as europium oxide), the radioactive isotopes produced by gadolinium oxide after neutron absorption are relatively stable, making subsequent handling simpler.
High Temperature Performance and Thermal Stability
High Melting Point
The melting point exceeds 2400°C, allowing for structural stability in high-temperature reactors or high-temperature process environments.
High Temperature Strength and Creep Resistance
It can maintain high mechanical strength and hardness at elevated temperatures, exhibiting good resistance to thermal creep and is not easily deformed.
Chemical and Physical Stability
Chemical Inertia
Exhibits excellent corrosion resistance against various molten metals (such as uranium, plutonium, and other nuclear fuels) and high-temperature chemical environments.
Low Thermal Expansion Coefficient
The thermal expansion coefficient is well-matched with many alloys and ceramics, helping to reduce thermal stress during thermal cycling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the neutron absorption capacity of Gadolinium oxide (Gd₂O₃)?
Gadolinium oxide has one of the highest thermal neutron absorption cross-sections in nature (~49,000 barns). It far surpasses materials like boron carbide (B₄C) and silicon carbide (SiC) in thermal neutron capture and absorption efficiency, allowing it to effectively terminate nuclear chain reactions.
How does Gadolinium oxide perform under strong radiation?
Gadolinium oxide demonstrates excellent radiation stability. It maintains its structural integrity even in strong radiation fields, showing slow performance degradation and ensuring a long service life.
Are the radioactive byproducts of Gadolinium oxide safe to handle?
Yes, compared to other neutron-absorbing materials such as europium oxide, the radioactive isotopes produced by gadolinium oxide after neutron absorption are relatively stable, which makes subsequent handling and disposal simpler.
What is the melting point of Gadolinium oxide?
The melting point of Gadolinium oxide exceeds 2400°C, which allows it to maintain structural stability in high-temperature nuclear reactors or demanding high-temperature industrial process environments.
Does Gadolinium oxide react with nuclear fuels like uranium and plutonium?
No. Gadolinium oxide exhibits excellent chemical inertia and corrosion resistance against various molten metals, including uranium, plutonium, and other nuclear fuels, even in high-temperature chemical environments.
How does Gadolinium oxide handle thermal cycling stress?
Gadolinium oxide has a low thermal expansion coefficient that matches well with many alloys and ceramics. This compatibility helps significantly reduce thermal stress during thermal cycling.