EXAFS study of (La(1-x)M(x))(2)Zr2O7 (M=Nd and Ce)

The local structures around Zr atoms such as coordination number of oxygen and cations, and the Zr-O and Zr-Ln (Ln: La, Nd and Ce) interatomic distances in the (La(1-x)M(x))(2)Zr2O7 (M=Nd or Ce with x=0-1.0) pyrochlore compounds, where Nd and Ce are simulation of actinides, were studied by means of extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectrometry. The local structure and lattice constant determined by EXAFS and X-ray diffraction, respectively in this study, are discussed in relation to the dissolution behavior in HCl solution (pH=1) at 363 K reported previously. The change in the local structure was also investigated with a sample before and after leaching test in HCl solution (pH=1) at 363 K for 14 days.