The anisotropic growth morphology and microstructure of plutonium hydride reaction sites

Plutonium hydride reaction sites grown on δ-stabilised plutonium alloy have been investigated by a combination of scanning electron microscopy, ion beam milling and cross sectional polishing. The reaction sites are oblate and results indicate that this may be the consequence of failure of the native oxide over the metal surrounding the hydride sites. The interior of the hydride reaction sites has a significantly modified microstructure to that of the surrounding metal. Growth of the hydride into the plutonium metal appears to have a strong relationship with the metallurgical features, causing a discontinuous interface. Possible models for anisotropic growth and formation of a discontinuous interface are discussed.