Thermophysical properties of solid and liquid thorium

Experimental investigations of the thermophysical properties of both solid and liquid thorium have been made using our isobaric expansion facility. We have performed measurements under 0.06 GPa argon pressure up to the vicinity of the thorium boiling state (similar to 5000 K). Enthalpy, volume expansion, and electrical resistivity data are reported and discussed. The electrical resistivity data display the different phase transformations in the solid and liquid states, before showing a sharp rise indicating crossing of the spinodal line. The enthalpies of transformations are measured and are in very good agreement with the available data in literature. Volume measurements show a strong expansion of liquid thorium up to the boiling state (V/V-0 similar to 2 at 0.68 MJ . kg(-1)).