Evaluation of Ni-Plated Zircaloy Getter Surface Characteristics

The Tritium Target Program (TTP) uses getter tubes made of nickel-plated Zircaloy (NPZ) to contain tritium as it is generated in burnable absorber rods. The NPZ getters meet the applicable specifications, but factors that may affect the kinetics of surface adsorption are not well understood. The intent of this work is to analyze species present at or near the surface of the nickel plating, and to examine the chemical reactions that occur as the surfaces are heated and exposed to air.