Synthesis and characterization of pure and Nd-doped monazite

Experiments were planned for synthesis and characterization of pure and Nd-doped LaPO4. LaPO4 is a potential host material for immobilization of metallic actinides. Nd is chosen as suitable dopant which is a surrogate element for metallic actinides like Pu. Samples were synthesized via solid state reaction method with starting material as La2O3, (NH4)2HPO4, and Nd2O3 at a temperature between 1350°C - 1550°C and sintering was performed in air. X-Ray Diffraction measurements were performed to check the phase purity and crystallinity of sample. XRD pattern confirms that the prepared samples are formed in single crystalline phase with space group 14 and symmetry P21/n. X-Ray Photoemission Spectroscopy experiments were performed to find chemical state and composition of elements in the sample. Present studies will help further in investigating the behavior of this material as suitable host.