Fine-Grained Tungstates SrWO4 and NaNd(WO4)2 with the Scheelite Structure Prepared by Spark Plasma Sintering

Abstract

Fine-grained SrWO₄ and NaNd(WO₄)₂ ceramics with the scheelite structure having high relative densities (99 and 95.8%), which can appear candidate matrices for radioactive waste (RAW) management, are prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The phase identity of the ceramics is determined by X-ray powder diffraction; their microstructure is studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The tungstates under study are sintered at rather low temperatures (580–665°C). The intensity of compaction of the tungstates at the early sintering stage is determined by the degree of powder agglomeration. The activation energy of fine-grained scheelite ceramics at high temperatures corresponds with the activation energy of grain-boundary oxygen diffusion.