Measurement of the phonon density of states of PuO 2(+2% Ga): A critical test of theory

M. E. Manley, J. R. Jeffries, A. H. Said, C. A. Marianetti, H. Cynn, B. M. Leu, M. A. Wall

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

26 Scopus citations

Abstract

Using inelastic x-ray scattering, we determine the phonon density of states of PuO 2 (+2% Ga) and compare results with recent predictions made using density functional theory (DFT), DFT plus the Hubbard U (DFT+U), and dynamical mean-field theory. The DFT prediction underestimates the measured energies of most features. The DFT+U prediction accurately reflects the low-energy features but incorrectly splits off an isolated high-energy oxygen mode. Ramifications for predictions of thermodynamic and transport properties of this nuclear fuel material are discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Article number132301
JournalPhysical Review B - Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
Volume85
Issue number13
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 13 2012
Externally publishedYes

Funding

FundersFunder number
National Science Foundation

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