2026 Undergraduate Research Showcase

Title: Oxidation Mechanism of Cerium Monosulfide

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-24-2026

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Scott Riley and Dr. Brian Jaques

Abstract

Cerium monosulfide (CeS) has unique thermal and non-wetting properties, providing chemical stability against molten actinides like uranium and plutonium at high temperatures. However, the oxidation mechanism of CeS has not been studied as of yet. In this study, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis were employed to measure oxidation. Phase evolution during oxidation was characterized through x-ray diffraction. The changes in the microstructure were observed through scanning electron microscopy, and chemical analysis was conducted through energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. As the CeS oxidizes into CeO2, intermediate phases are formed, which increase the mass of the sample during oxidation changing, changing the grain structure and experiencing exothermic reactions. From these results, insight has been gained into the oxidation mechanisms of CeS, which has unique properties for molten actinide applications.

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