ASTM C753 : 99

1.1 This specification covers nuclear-grade, sinterable uranium dioxide powder. It applies to uranium dioxide powder containing uranium of any 235 U concentration for use in nuclear reactors.

1.2 This specification recognizes the presence of reprocessed uranium in the fuel cycle and consequently defines isotopic limits for commercial grade UO 2 . Such commercial grade UO 2 is defined so that, regarding fuel design and manufacture, the product is essentially equivalent to that made from unreprocessed uranium. UO 2 falling outside these limits cannot necessarily be regarded as equivalent and may thus need special provisions at the fuel fabrication plant or in the fuel design.

1.3 This specification does not include provisions for preventing criticality accidents or requirements for health and safety. Observance of this specification does not relieve the user of the obligation to be aware of and conform to all international, national, or federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to possessing, shipping, processing, or using source or special nuclear material.

1.4 Special tests and procedures are given in Annex A1.

1.5 This specification refers expressly to UO 2 powder before the addition of any die lubricant, binder, or pore former. If powder is sold with such additions, sampling procedures or allowable impurity contents, or both, may need to be modified by agreement between the buyer and the seller.

1.6 The following safety hazards caveat pertains to the test methods portion in the annexes of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.