A method for making super-tough, lower-cost containers to transport, protect and store spent nuclear reactor fuel rods has been patented by Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers Charles Forsberg, Nuclear Science and Technology, and Vinod Sikka, Metals and Ceramics. The method uses a cermet, a metal-ceramic composite traditionally used for tank armor, machine tools and bank vaults. Cermet's strength, weight and radiation shielding properties make it an excellent material for spent nuclear fuel casks. However, welding and fabricating cermet into cask form has proven costly and difficult. The new ORNL method uses a hollow steel mold filled with a mixture of depleted uranium oxide, ceramics and steel powder. The cylinder is sealed, forged and compressed in a procedure that does not require welding of the cermet, avoids traditional manufacturing complications and may greatly lower fabrication costs. The technology could hasten development of a nearly indestructible "super cask" that saves money while improving security of spent nuclear fuel rods.
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