Abstract
The reaction of UF4 with Al and graphite to form UC has been studied in the temperature range between 900° and 1, 200°C. From a mixed powder of stoichiometric composition, UC with a small amount of UF3 was obtained, corresponding to the reaction
3UF4+4Al+3C→3UC+4AlF3
under constant flow of Ar.
The X-ray pattern of the product from 300min reaction at 1, 200°C revealed the presence solely of UC phase. Taking the effect of Al content into consideration, the reaction is better explained by the reaction formula
UF4+2Al+C→UCH+AlF+AlF3.
The by-products were ascertained by chemical and X-ray analyses. The reaction follows a logarithmic law derived from the weight change us. holding time curves. Products of single phase of UC were obtained within a relatively short time above 1, 000°C. The apparent activation energy of the reaction was determined to be 64kcal/mol.
