Structural examination of iridium-based single-crystal preparations

A high-temperature crystal growth experiment produced discrete single-crystal products of AlIr and IrSi. The preparation and examination of these phases is described within. This project is part of a materials compatibility study relating to radioisotopic heat sources. These heat sources are comprised of a PuO/sub 2/ fuel pellet encapsulated in an Ir alloy containment shell. Th is introduced as an additive within the Ir to maintain ductility. Si and P are picked up inadvertently in the fuel processing. The compatibility of the heat sources with Al is of interest because of potential interactions with Al alloy hardware associated with the heat source environment.