Written by AZoMJan 21 2021 In a breakthrough achievement that needs cutting-edge technology, perseverance, and a great deal of caution, researchers have effectively utilized powerful X-rays to investigate irradiated nuclear fuel. 3D image reconstruction of a sample of irradiated fuel, showing the three thresholded uranium phases co-existing with pores. Image Credit: Maria Okuniewski/Purdue University. The imaging, headed by investigators from Purdue University and performed at the Argonne National Laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), has disclosed a three-dimensional (3D) view of the inner structure of fuel, laying the basis for more improved designs and models for nuclear fuels.