Characterization of alumina ceramics sintered at high temperature and investigation of neutron radiation effect on the material properties

ABSTRACT In this work, characterization of Alumina Ceramics, which is sintered at high temperature, was done and the effects of energetic neutron radiation on the material properties were investigated. For this purpose, different kind of alumina powers was studied and their grain sizes, granulometric and sintering characteristics were determined. As a result of these experiences, the most suitable one was chosen for the experiments. A lot of pellets in different sizes and geometries were prepared and sintered at 1600°C. Then, their physical and mechanical characteristics were determined. Besides, some optical and SEM photographs of the samples were taken for the observation of microstructure. Having determined the characteristic properties, alumina samples were irradiated by utilizing the SAMES T-400 neutron generator and Pu-Be source (Howitzer). By performing the mechanical tests, the effect of neutrons of different energies on the material properties was examined. In the last step of the experimental studies, some alumina samples having conductive contacts were prepared and the changes of the electrical resistivity and conductivity during and after neutron irradiation were tried to determine. Consequently, experimental data were presented in tables, graphs and the photographs and the results were discussed. Keywords: Alumina, Ceramic, Radiation, Characterization, Neutron VI