Synthesis of UO2 nanocrystals with good oxidation resistance in water at room temperature

Abstract The uranium dioxide (UO 2 ) nanocrystals (NCs) and nanospheres (NSs) with diameters similar to those of the real high burn-up structures (HBS) are successfully obtained by using a hydrothermal method. The nanocrystals showed good oxidation resistance in water at room temperature for more than 50 days, this period is much longer than nanospheres and the previous report (approximately 2 days). The mechanism for the production of stable nanocrystals has also been discussed in detail. Hence, they could be used to develop advanced nuclear fuels.