Topic 1 - Ensuring a resilient supply of raw materials from primary sources
Characterization of metals and alloy microstructure as well as hydrogen embrittlement.
Improving the processing routes (e.g., extraction and refining for example zirconium/hafnium separation), material performance and quality control.
Support metallurgical process optimization studies aimed at making supply chains more efficient and traceable.
The Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI) is Switzerland's largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences, part of the ETH Domain, known for its large-scale research facilities (including synchrotron light sources and neutron sources) that support cutting-edge materials characterization. Within PSI, your group focuses on nuclear fuel and materials research, studying the behavior of zirconium cladding materials under reactor-relevant conditions to support the safety and performance of nuclear fuel systems.