Francoise Defoort

Title: Francoise Defoort: Innovator in Chromium Oxide Coating Technology

Introduction

Francoise Defoort is a notable inventor based in Lyons, France. She has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in the development of processes for forming chromium oxide insulating layers. Her innovative work has implications for the nuclear industry, enhancing the safety and efficiency of fuel elements.

Latest Patents

Francoise Defoort holds a patent for a process that involves the formation of a chromium oxide insulating layer. This process utilizes an organometallic chromium compound in the gaseous phase, which is brought into contact with a substrate, such as the inner surface of zirconium alloy tubular cladding or the outer surface of nuclear fuel pellets. The substrate is maintained at a temperature between 300°C and 600°C. The organometallic compound may consist of chromium acetylacetonate. This innovative process enables the creation of a chromium oxide coating that prevents or limits pellet/cladding interaction when the fuel element is used in a reactor. She has 1 patent to her name.

Career Highlights

Throughout her career, Francoise has worked with prominent companies in the nuclear sector, including Framatome GmbH and Cogema, Inc. Her expertise in materials science and engineering has allowed her to contribute to advancements in nuclear fuel technology.

Collaborations

Francoise has collaborated with notable professionals in her field, including Dominique Hertz and Sylvain Audisio. These collaborations have further enriched her work and expanded the impact of her innovations.

Conclusion

Francoise Defoort is a pioneering inventor whose work in chromium oxide coating technology has made significant strides in the nuclear industry. Her contributions continue to influence the safety and efficiency of nuclear fuel elements.