Oxo-group-14-element bond formation in binuclear uranium(V) pacman complexes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jones, Guy M.; Arnold, Polly L.; Love, Jason B. [EaStCHEM School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh (United Kingdom)

2013-07-29

Simple and versatile routes to the functionalization of uranyl-derived U{sup V}-oxo groups are presented. The oxo-lithiated, binuclear uranium(V)-oxo complexes [{(py)_3LiOUO}{sub 2}(L)] and [{(py)_3LiOUO}(OUOSiMe{sub 3})(L)] were prepared by the direct combination of the uranyl(VI) silylamide ''ate'' complex [Li(py){sub 2}][(OUO)(N''){sub 3}](N''=N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}) with the polypyrrolic macrocycle H{sub 4}L or the mononuclear uranyl (VI) Pacman complex [UO{sub 2}(py)(H{sub 2}L)], respectively. These oxo-metalated complexes display distinct U-O single and multiple bonding patterns and an axial/equatorial arrangement of oxo ligands. Their ready availability allows the direct functionalization of the uranyl oxo group leading to the binuclear uranium(V) oxo-stannylated complexes [{(R_3Sn)OUO}{sub 2}(L)] (R=nBu, Ph), which represent rare examples of mixed uranium/tin complexes. Also, uranium-oxo-group exchange occurred in reactions with [TiCl(OiPr){sub 3}] to form U-O-C bonds [{(py)_3LiOUO}(OUOiPr)(L)] and [(iPrOUO){sub 2}(L)]. Overall, these represent the first family of uranium(V) complexes that are oxo-functionalised by Group 14 elements. (Copyright copyright 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

The uranium potential of the Bushveld igneous complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Andreoli, M.A.G.; Hart, R.J.; Brynard, H.J.; Camisani-Calzolari, F.A.G.M.

1987-06-01

A review of published literature supported by field observations on the uranium potential of the Bushveld Complex indicates that this geological region may host deposits with reserves in the range of a few thousand tons U 3 O 8 . The possibility that the Bushveld Complex or its cover rocks hosts, or has ever hosted in the past, giant uranium deposits such as those of Olympic Dam, Key Lake, Jabiluka or Rossing is considered to be unlikely. The potential for volcanogenic, caldera-type deposits in the Rooiberg Felsites remains at present untested. Recommendations for research currently sponsored by the AEC at the University of Pretoria are presented

Nitrogen reduction and functionalization by a multimetallic uranium nitride complex

Science.gov (United States)

Falcone, Marta; Chatelain, Lucile; Scopelliti, Rosario; Živković, Ivica; Mazzanti, Marinella

2017-07-01

Molecular nitrogen (N2) is cheap and widely available, but its unreactive nature is a challenge when attempting to functionalize it under mild conditions with other widely available substrates (such as carbon monoxide, CO) to produce value-added compounds. Biological N2 fixation can do this, but the industrial Haber-Bosch process for ammonia production operates under harsh conditions (450 degrees Celsius and 300 bar), even though both processes are thought to involve multimetallic catalytic sites. And although molecular complexes capable of binding and even reducing N2 under mild conditions are known, with co-operativity between metal centres considered crucial for the N2 reduction step, the multimetallic species involved are usually not well defined, and further transformation of N2-binding complexes to achieve N-H or N-C bond formation is rare. Haber noted, before an iron-based catalyst was adopted for the industrial Haber-Bosch process, that uranium and uranium nitride materials are very effective heterogeneous catalysts for ammonia production from N2. However, few examples of uranium complexes binding N2 are known, and soluble uranium complexes capable of transforming N2 into ammonia or organonitrogen compounds have not yet been identified. Here we report the four-electron reduction of N2 under ambient conditions by a fully characterized complex with two UIII ions and three K+ centres held together by a nitride group and a flexible metalloligand framework. The addition of H2 and/or protons, or CO to the resulting complex results in the complete cleavage of N2 with concomitant N2 functionalization through N-H or N-C bond-forming reactions. These observations establish that a molecular uranium complex can promote the stoichiometric transformation of N2 into NH3 or cyanate, and that a flexible, electron-rich, multimetallic, nitride-bridged core unit is a promising starting point for the design of molecular complexes capable of cleaving and functionalizing N2 under

Spectroscopic confirmation of uranium(VI)-carbonato adsorption complexes on hematite

Science.gov (United States)

Bargar, John R.; Reitmeyer, Rebecca; Davis, James A.

1999-01-01

Evaluating societal risks posed by uranium contamination from waste management facilities, mining sites, and heavy industry requires knowledge about uranium transport in groundwater, often the most significant pathway of exposure to humans. It has been proposed that uranium mobility in aquifers may be controlled by adsorption of U(VI)−carbonato complexes on oxide minerals. The existence of such complexes has not been demonstrated, and little is known about their compositions and reaction stoichiometries. We have used attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopies to probe the existence, structures, and compositions of ≡FeOsurface−U(VI)−carbonato complexes on hematite throughout the pH range of uranyl uptake under conditions relevant to aquifers. U(VI)−carbonato complexes were found to be the predominant adsorbed U(VI) species at all pH values examined, a much wider pH range than previously postulated based on analogy to aqueous U(VI)−carbonato complexes, which are trace constituents at pH carbonato complexes may be of major importance to the groundwater transport of similar actinide contaminants such as neptunium and plutonium.

EXAFS investigation of uranium(6) complexes formed at Acidithiobacillus ferro oxidans types

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Merroun, M.; Reich, T.; Hennig, Ch.; Selenska-Pobell, S.

2002-01-01

Mining activities have brought excessive amounts of uranium into the environment. In uranium deposits a number of acidophilic chemo-litho-autotrophic bacteria have been identified which are able to oxidize sulphide minerals, elemental sulphur, ferrous iron and also (in the presence of uranium mineral) U(IV). In particular, the interaction of one representative of the group Acidithiobacillus ferro oxidans (new designation of Thiobacillus ferro oxidans) with uranium has been investigated. Uranium(VI) complex formations at the surfaces of Acidithiobacillus ferro oxidans were studied using uranium L III -edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy. In all samples uranium is co-ordinated by two axial oxygen atoms (O ax ) at a distance of 1.77-1.78 angstrom. The average distance between uranium and the equatorial oxygen atoms (O eq ) is 2.35 angstrom. The co-ordination number for O eq is 5-6. In comparison to the uranium crystal structure data, the U-O eq distance indicates a co-ordination number of the equatorial oxygen of 5. Within the experimental error, there are no differences in the U-O bond distances between samples from the three types of A. ferro oxidans investigated. The fit to the EXAFS data of samples measured as wet pastes gave the same results as for dried samples. No significant structural differences were observed for the uranium complexes formed by the eco-types of A. ferro oxidans. However, the EXAFS spectra do indicate a formation of uranium complexes which are different from those formed by Bacilli where the bond length of 2.28 angstrom indicates a co-ordination number of 4 for the equatorial oxygen atoms. (authors)

Ligand Influences on Properties of Uranium Coordination Complexes - Structure, Reactivity, and Spectroscopy

OpenAIRE

Kosog, Boris

2012-01-01

In this thesis several different aspects of uranium chemistry are presented. It was shown that terminal uranium(V) oxo and imido complexes [((RArO)3tacn)UV(O)] and [((RArO)3tacn)UV(NSiMe3)] (R = t Bu, Ad) can be oxidized by silver(I) hexafluoro-antimonate to the uranium(VI) oxo and imido complexes [((RArO)3tacn)UVI(O)]SbF6 and [((RArO)3tacn)UVI(NSiMe3)]SbF6. While for the t Bu-derivative of the oxo complex an equatorial coordination is observed due to stabilization by the inverse trans-influe...

Structure of some complex halides of uranium(III)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Volkov, V.A.; Suglobova, I.G.; Chirkst, D.E.

1987-01-01

Polycrystals of some halide complexes of uranium(III) were obtained and investigated by x-ray diffraction. The M 2 UCl 5 compounds (M = K, Rb) are isostructural with K 2 PrCl 5 ; RbU 2 Cl 7 is of the same type as RbDy 2 Cl 7 or KDy 2 Cl 7 . The coordination number of the uranium is 7. The M 2 UBr 5 compounds (M = K-Cs) are isostructural with Cs 2 DyCl 5 , and the coordination number of the uranium is 6. Rb 2 NaUCl 6 is a 12L-hexagonal polytype, the structural analog of Cs 2 NaCrF 6 . The most characteristic coordination number of uranium in the UHal 3 -MHal systems is 8 for Hal = F, 7 for Hal = Cl, and 6 for Hal = Br

Reactivity of uranium(IV) bridged chalcogenido complexes UIV–E–UIV (E = S, Se) with elemental sulfur and selenium: synthesis of polychalcogenido-bridged uranium complexes

OpenAIRE

Franke, Sebastian M.; Heinemann, Frank W.; Meyer, Karsten

2014-01-01

We report the syntheses, electronic properties, and molecular structures of a series of polychalcogenido-bridged dinuclear uranium species. These complexes are supported by the sterically encumbering but highly flexible, single N-anchored tris(aryloxide) chelator (AdArO)3N3−. Reaction of an appropriate uranium precursor, either the U(III) starting material, [((AdArO)3N)U(DME)], or the dinuclear mono-chalcogenido-bridged uranium(IV/IV) compounds [{((AdArO)3N)U(DME)}2(μ-E)] (E = S, Se), with el...

Formation and uranium explorating prospect of sub-volcanic granitic complex and rich uranium ore deposit in South China

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang Yusheng

1997-01-01

The rich uranium ore deposits are all closely related to tecto-magmatism of late-magmatic cycle whether volcanic types or granitic types in south China. Volcanic type rich uranium deposit has closely relationship with sub-volcanic activity, and granitic type rich uranium deposit is also closely related to mid-fine, unequal particle small massif in late main invasion stage. Based on characteristics of magmatism, we name the rock sub-volcanic granite complex, which is a unique style and closely related to the formation of rich uranium ore deposit

Magnetic study of solid uranium-fluorine complexes; Contribution a l'etude magnetique de composes fluores solides de l'uranium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dianoux, A.J. [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1969-06-01

A study of the magnetic susceptibility of uranium V fluorine complexes and of the magnetic resonance of fluorine atoms in uranium VI fluorine complexes has made it possible to put forward a structural model for these compounds for which it is impossible, because of the lack of suitable single crystals for X-ray diffraction work, to deduce the exact position of the fluorine atoms. It is shown that it is difficult to interpret the paramagnetism of uranium fluorides, because the uranium ions are in low-symmetry sites. A theoretical study of the magnetism of the U{sup V} ion in complex fluorides of the type M{sub 3}UF{sub 8} (M = NH{sub 4}, Na, Rb, Cs) leads to an interpretation based on a trigonal deformation of the eight fluorine atom structure surrounding the uranium atom. By applying a Hamiltonian spin formalism and making a systematic use of group theory, it is possible to present the susceptibility calculations very concisely. Study of the resonance and of the relaxation of the fluorine atoms in powdered uranium VI complex fluorides suggests a structural model in the case of NaUF{sub 7}. It is shown that the shape of the magnetic resonance absorption lines is strongly affected by the presence of large anisotropic chemical shifts. In the model proposed here, six fluorine atoms are linked to the uranium, atom by strongly covalent bonds in a deformed UF{sub 6} octahedral structure; the seventh fluorine atom remains ionic. The occurrence of a rotational movement of the octahedron is confirmed by a study of the longitudinal relaxation of the fluorine atoms, the activation energy being 0.46 eV. (author) [French] L'etude de la susceptibilite magnetique de complexes fluores d'uranium V et la resonance magnetique des fluors dans des complexes fluores d'uranium VI permettent de proposer un modele structural pour ces composes, ou la diffraction des rayons X, en l'absence de monocristaux convenables, est incapable de preciser la position des atomes de

Spectroscopic Confirmation of Uranium (VI)-Carbonato Adsorption Complexes on Hematite

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bargar, John R

1999-01-01

Evaluating societal risks posed by uranium contamination from waste management facilities, mining sites, and heavy industry requires knowledge about uranium transport in groundwater, often the most significant pathway of exposure to humans. It has been proposed that uranium mobility in aquifers may be controlled by adsorption of U(VI)-carbonato complexes on oxide minerals. The existence of such complexes has not been demonstrated, and little is known about their compositions and reaction stoichiometries. We have used Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) and Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) spectroscopies to probe the existence, structures, and compositions of FeO surface -U(VI)-carbonato complexes on hematite throughout the pH range of uranyl uptake under conditions relevant to aquifers. U(VI)-carbonato complexes were found to be the predominant adsorbed U(VI) species at all pH values examined, a much wider pH range than previously postulated based on analogy to aqueous U(VI)-carbonato complexes, which are trace constituents at pH < 6. This result indicates the inadequacy of the common modeling assumption that the compositions and predominance of adsorbed species can be inferred from aqueous species. By extension, adsorbed carbonato complexes may be of major importance to the groundwater transport of similar actinide contaminants such as neptunium and plutonium

Single-molecule magnetism in a single-ion triamidoamine uranium(V) terminal mono-oxo complex

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

King, David M.; McMaster, Jonathan; Lewis, William; Blake, Alexander J.; Liddle, Stephen T. [Nottingham Univ. (United Kingdom). School of Chemistry; Tuna, Floriana; McInnes, Eric J.L. [Manchester Univ. (United Kingdom). School of Chemistry

2013-04-26

Straightforward oxidation of a triamidoamine uranium(III) complex with trimethyl-N-oxide affords a uranium(V) terminal mono-oxo complex which is the first clear-cut example of a uranium(V) single-molecule magnet (SMM). This monometallic complex unambiguously shows that a strongly axially ligated and thus anisotropic ligand field can be used to overcome the limited magnetic anisotropy of uranium(V). [German] Die direkte Oxidation eines Triamidoamin-Uran(III)-Komplexes mit Trimethyl-N-oxid liefert einen terminalen Uran(V)-Mono(oxo)komplex, der das erste gesicherte Beispiel eines Uran(V)-Einzelmolekuelmagnets ist. Dieser monometallische Komplex zeigt eindeutig, dass ein starkes axiales und somit anisotropes Ligandenfeld die begrenzte magnetische Anisotropie von Uran(V) beseitigen kann.

Effects of solution pH and complexing reagents on uranium and thorium desorption under saturated equilibrium conditions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang, Yug-Yea; Yu, C.

1992-01-01

Three contaminated bulk surface soils were used for investigating the effect of solution pH and complexing reagents on uranium and thorium desorption. At a low solution pH, the major chemical species of uranium and thorium, uranyl UO 2 +2 , thorium dihydroxide Th(OH) 2 +2 , and thorium hydroxide Th(OH) +3 , tend to form complexes with acetates in the solution phase, which increases the fractions of uranium and thorium desorbed into this phase. At a high solution pH, important uranium and thorium species such as uranyl tricarbonate complex UO 2 (CO) 33 -4 and thorium tetrahydroxide complex Th(OH) 4 tend to resist complexation with acetates. The presence of complexing reagents in solution can release radionuclides such as uranium and/or thorium from the soil to the solution by forming soluble complexes. Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO 3 ) and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) are strong complex formers that released 38% to 62% of total uranium activity and 78% to 86% of total thorium activity, respectively, from the soil samples investigated. Solutions of 0.1 molar sodium nitrate (NaNO 3 ) and 0.1 molar sodium sulfate (Na 2 SO 4 ) were not effective complex formers with uranium and thorium under the experimental conditions. Fractions of uranium and thorium desorbed by 0.15g/200ml humic acid ranged from 4.62% to 6.17% and 1.59% to 7.09%, respectively. This work demonstrates the importance of a knowledge of solution chemistry in investigating the desorption of radionuclides

Bioreduction of Uranium(VI) Complexed with Citric Acid by Clostridia Affects its Structure and Mobility

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Francis, A.; Dodge, C.

2008-01-01

Uranium contamination of the environment from mining and milling operations, nuclear-waste disposal, and ammunition use is a widespread global problem. Natural attenuation processes such as bacterial reductive precipitation and immobilization of soluble uranium is gaining much attention. However, the presence of naturally occurring organic ligands can affect the precipitation of uranium. Here, we report that the anaerobic spore-forming bacteria Clostridia, ubiquitous in soils, sediments, and wastes, capable of reduction of Fe(III) to Fe(II), Mn(IV) to Mn(II), U(VI) to U(IV), Pu(IV) to Pu(III), and Tc(VI) to Tc(IV); reduced U(VI) associated with citric acid in a dinuclear 2:2 U(VI):citric acid complex to a biligand mononuclear 1:2 U(IV):citric acid complex, which remained in solution, in contrast to reduction and precipitation of uranium. Our findings show that U(VI) complexed with citric acid is readily accessible as an electron acceptor despite the inability of the bacterium to metabolize the complexed organic ligand. Furthermore, it suggests that the presence of organic ligands at uranium-contaminated sites can affect the mobility of the actinide under both oxic and anoxic conditions by forming such soluble complexes.

Environmental significance of copper, lead, manganese, uranium and zinc speciation in the event of contaminated waters release from the Ranger Uranium Mining Complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Noller, B.N.; Currey, N.A.

1983-01-01

The likely impact of the accidental release of tailings dam water during the dry season at the Ranger Uranium Mining Complex was examined. A speciation scheme utilising sizing by filtration and ion-exchange with Chelex 100 has given an insight into the likely partitioning of zinc, copper, lead, manganese and uranium following the addition of tailings dam water to samples from waterbodies in the vicinity of the uranium mining/milling complex. The speciation findings are discussed in terms of likely toxic effects on fish

Unique advantages of organometallic supporting ligands for uranium complexes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Diaconescu, Paula L. [Univ. of California, Los Angeles, CA (United States); Garcia, Evan [Univ. of California, Los Angeles, CA (United States)

2014-05-31

The objective of our research project was to study the reactivity of uranium complexes supported by ferrocene-based ligands. In addition, this research provides training of graduate students as the next generation of actinide scientists.

Unique advantages of organometallic supporting ligands for uranium complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Diaconescu, Paula L.; Garcia, Evan

2014-01-01

The objective of our research project was to study the reactivity of uranium complexes supported by ferrocene-based ligands. In addition, this research provides training of graduate students as the next generation of actinide scientists.

Synthesis and structure determination of a stable organometallic uranium(V) imine complex and its isolobal anionic U(IV)-ate complex

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sharma, M.; Botoshanskii, M.; Eisen, M.S. [Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, and Institute of Catalysis Science and Technology, Technion Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa (Israel); Bannenberg, Th.; Tamm, M. [Institut fur Anorganische und Analytische Chemie, Technische Universitat Braunschweig (Germany)

2010-06-15

The reaction of one equivalent of Cp*{sub 2}UCl{sub 2} with 2-(trimethylsilyl-imino)-1,3-di-tert-butyl-imidazoline in boiling toluene afforded a one electron oxidation of the uranium metal and the opening of the N-heterocyclic ring, resulting in the formation of an organometallic uranium(V) imine complex. This complex crystallized with one molecule of toluene in the unit cell, and its solid-state structure was determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. When the same reaction was performed in perdeuterated toluene, a myriad of organometallic complexes were obtained, however, when equimolar amounts of water were used in toluene, the same complex was obtained, and its solid state characterization shows two independent molecules in the unit cell with an additional water molecule. For comparison of the geometric parameters, the corresponding isolobal anionic uranium(IV) complex [Cp*{sub 2}UCl{sub 3}]{sup -} was synthesized by the reaction of Cp*{sub 2}UCl{sub 2} with 1,3-di-tert-butyl-imidazolium chloride, and the resulting U(IV)-ate complex was characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis. (authors)

Uranium hetero-bimetallic complexes: synthesis, structure and magnetic properties; Complexes heterobimetalliques de l'uranium: synthese, structure et proprietes magnetiques

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Le Borgne, Th

2000-10-04

The aim of this thesis is to synthesize molecular complexes with uranium and transition metal ions in close proximity, to determine the nature of the magnetic interaction between them. We decided to use Schiff bases as assembling ligands, which are unusual for uranium (IV). Although the simplest Schiff bases, such as H{sub 2}Salen, lead to ligand exchange reactions, the bi-compartmental Schiff base H{sub 4}L{sup 6} (bis(3-hydroxy-salicylidene) - 2,2-dimethyl-propylene) allows the crystal structure determination of the complex [L{sup 6}Cu(pyr)]U[L{sup 6}Cu].2pyr, obtained by reaction of the metallo-ligand H{sub 2}L{sup 6}Cu with U(acac){sub 4}. In this manner, the complexes [L{sup 6}Co(pyr)]{sub 2}U and [L{sup 6}Ni(pyr)]{sub 2}U.pyr were also isolated, as well as the compounds in which the paramagnetic ions have been exchanged by the diamagnetic ions Zn{sup II}, Zr{sup IV} and Th{sup IV}': [L{sup 6}Zn(pyr)]{sub 2}U, [L{sup 6}Cu]{sub 2}Zr and [L{sup 6}Cu(pyr)]Th[L{sup 6}Cu].2pyr. These complexes are the first which involve three metallic centres assembling by the means of a hexa-dentate Schiff base. The crystalline structures show, for all these complexes, the outstanding orthogonal arrangement of the two fragments L{sup 6}M around the central atom which is in a dodecahedral environment of eight oxygen atoms of two Schiff bases. The syntheses of the isostructural complexes Cu2{sup II} and Zn{sub 2}U in which the uranium (IV) ion is close, in the first one, to the paramagnetic ion Cu{sup II} and, in the second one, to the diamagnetic ion Zn{sup II}, has allowed the use of the empiric method to determine the nature of the magnetic interaction between an f element and a transition metal. The comparison of the magnetic behaviour of two complexes Cu{sub 2}U and Zn{sub 2}U, expressed by the variation of {chi}T vs T, reveals the ferromagnetic interaction in the heart of the triad Cu-U-Cu. The magnetic behaviour of the complexes Cu{sub 2}Th et Cu{sub 2}Zr which does not

Synthesis and reactivity of uranium (III) cyclopentadienyl complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Foyentin, M.

1987-01-01

New uranium organometallic complexes are synthetized from the addition compound Cp U (THF). Reactions with lithium compounds, chlorides, alkynes and borohydrides. Oxidizing addition reactions are evidenced with alkyl halogenides. With a strong reducing agent, the complex Cp-UCH-Li allows the fixation and the reduction of nitrogen into ammonia. Lability of ligands bound to U (III) is evidenced, giving very reactive species and hence catalytic properties for these compounds. Catalytic hydrogenation of olefins is studied. Substitution reactions of alkyl groups of these complexes with olefins in presence or not of hydrogen or with alkyllithium are original [fr

Investigations on the elution behaviour of TOPO complexes of uranium and thorium using supercritical fluid chromatography

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kumar, R.; Sivaraman, N.; Srinivasan, T.G.; Vasudeva Rao, P.R.

2004-01-01

In summary uranium and thorium could be separated by supercritical fluid chromatography technique as their TOPO complexes. The elution profiles with pre-complexation of the metal nitrate indicate a better separation than the in-situ complexation. The technique can also be employed for the assay of uranium and thorium at low levels

Radium removal from Canadian uranium mining effluents by a radium-selective ion exchange complexer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1984-07-01

A laboratory test program was initiated by the Department of Energy, Mines and Resources as part of the National Uranium Tailings Program to investigate the applicability of a radium-selective ion exchange complexer for removing radium from Canadian uranium mining effluents. The ion exchange complexer was shown to be efficient in removing radium from contaminated water of uranium mining operations, with the ultimate loading capacity of the resin on one type of water treated being determined as approximately 1,600 Bq/cm 3 of new resin. The results showed that the resin was effective in removing radium but not any other contaminants

Study of new complexes of uranium and comba radical. I.- Complexes defective in sodium carbonate

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vera Palomino, J.; Galiano Sedano, J. A.; Parellada Bellod, R.; Bellido Gonzalez, A.

1975-01-01

Some complexes formed in presence of defect of sodium carbonate with respect to the stoichiometric ratio (U): (C0 3 ) = 1:3 are studied. This ratio corresponds to the main complex which is responsible for the uranium extraction with CDMBAC organic solutions and from U(VI) aqueous solutions with an excess of sodium carbonate. (Author) 10 refs

Interactions of quercetin-uranium complexes with biomembranes and DNA

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Attia, Enas Mohammed Hassan

2014-07-21

Uranium decontamination gains a great importance with the spread of nuclear waste in both soil and water systems across the planet. All known remediation methods of uranium can be exclusively based either on synthetic materials with high adsorbent power and known physical chemistry or life organisms by which the uranium eventually accumulated inside their tissues. In the present thesis, it was attempted to design a rational approach for uranyl removal primarily from waters using the reducing potential of quercetin, which is a plant-derived small organic molecules, along with its photochemical activities. Such approach, which is neither a fully synthetic nor an organism-based approach, was chosen here to avoid disadvantages with both traditional strategies. Here, complexation experiments were designed to assess the use of uranyl-quercetin complexes for the photoreduction of water-soluble U(VI) to insoluble U(IV) by comparing absorption properties of uranyl-quercetin complexes in acetone, water, and hydrophobic bilayer lipid vesicles. The UV-vis data show that uranyl quercetin complex can form in both hydrophobic and hydrophilic environments. In both cases the B-ring band in quercetin structure becomes reduced, red shifted and a pronounced absorption arises in the 400-500 nm range. Such data suggests that U(VI) binds at the 3-OH and 4-carbonyl of ring C of quercetin. Interestingly, the results of UV-Vis spectroscopy part hint at a crucial role of a stable or transiently ionized hydroxyl for the efficient uranyl-dependent photodegradation of quercetin. FTIR spectroscopy absorption changes further demonstrates that the UV-vis-spectroscopic changes are indeed accompanied by changes in the chemical structure of the complex as expected for a uranyl-dependent photodegradation. IR data thus suggest that U(VI) becomes reduced by the photoreaction, rather than merely changing its coordination shell. The frequency shifts in the C=C and C=O absorption range on the other hand

Interactions of quercetin-uranium complexes with biomembranes and DNA

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Attia, Enas Mohammed Hassan

2014-01-01

Uranium decontamination gains a great importance with the spread of nuclear waste in both soil and water systems across the planet. All known remediation methods of uranium can be exclusively based either on synthetic materials with high adsorbent power and known physical chemistry or life organisms by which the uranium eventually accumulated inside their tissues. In the present thesis, it was attempted to design a rational approach for uranyl removal primarily from waters using the reducing potential of quercetin, which is a plant-derived small organic molecules, along with its photochemical activities. Such approach, which is neither a fully synthetic nor an organism-based approach, was chosen here to avoid disadvantages with both traditional strategies. Here, complexation experiments were designed to assess the use of uranyl-quercetin complexes for the photoreduction of water-soluble U(VI) to insoluble U(IV) by comparing absorption properties of uranyl-quercetin complexes in acetone, water, and hydrophobic bilayer lipid vesicles. The UV-vis data show that uranyl quercetin complex can form in both hydrophobic and hydrophilic environments. In both cases the B-ring band in quercetin structure becomes reduced, red shifted and a pronounced absorption arises in the 400-500 nm range. Such data suggests that U(VI) binds at the 3-OH and 4-carbonyl of ring C of quercetin. Interestingly, the results of UV-Vis spectroscopy part hint at a crucial role of a stable or transiently ionized hydroxyl for the efficient uranyl-dependent photodegradation of quercetin. FTIR spectroscopy absorption changes further demonstrates that the UV-vis-spectroscopic changes are indeed accompanied by changes in the chemical structure of the complex as expected for a uranyl-dependent photodegradation. IR data thus suggest that U(VI) becomes reduced by the photoreaction, rather than merely changing its coordination shell. The frequency shifts in the C=C and C=O absorption range on the other hand

Magnetic-superexchange interactions of uranium(IV) chloride-addition complexes with amides, 2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Miyake, Chie; Hinatsu, Yukio; Imoto, Shosuke

1983-01-01

The magnetic susceptibilities of five cyclic amide (lactam)-addition complexes of uranium(IV) chloride were measured between room temperature and 2 K. Magnetic-exchange interaction was found only for N-methyl-substituted amide complexes, and a dimer structure was assumed for them on the basis of their chemical properties. Treating interdimer interaction with a molecular-field approximation, the magnetic susceptibilities were calculated to be in good agreement with the experimental results in the temperature region of the maxima in chi sub(A). The transmission of antiparallel spin coupling via the π orbitals of the bridging amide ligands is proposed to explain the strong intradimer superexchange interaction for the uranium(IV) chloride-amide complexes with the magnetic-susceptibility maximum. (author)

Controlled thermolysis of uranium (alkoxy)siloxy complexes. A route to polymetallic complexes of low-valent uranium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Camp, Clement; Pecaut, Jacques; Mazzanti, Marinella [CEA-Grenoble (France). Lab. de Reconnaissance Ionique et Chimie de Coordination; Kefalidis, Christos E.; Maron, Laurent [Toulouse Univ. (France). LPCNO, CNRS et INSA, UPS

2013-11-25

Decomposition into higher species: Intramolecular U{sup III}-mediated homolytic C-O bond cleavage in U{sup III} (alkoxy)siloxy complexes at low temperature and subsequent reduction with KC{sub 8} led to unprecedented polymetallic complexes containing siloxy, silanediolate, and silanetriolate ligands (see example: U green, Si yellow, K blue, O red). Such compounds may be useful precursors to uranium ceramics relevant for catalysis and the storage of spent nuclear fuel. [German] Zerfall in hoehere Spezies: Die intramolekulare U{sup III}-vermittelte homolytische C-O-Spaltung in U{sup III}-(Alkoxy)siloxy-Komplexen bei tiefer Temperatur mit nachfolgender Reduktion mit KC{sub 8} fuehrte zu ungewoehnlichen Polymetallkomplexen mit Siloxy-, Silandiolat- und Silantriolatliganden (siehe Beispiel: U gruen, Si gelb, K blau, O rot). Solche Verbindungen sind nuetzliche Vorstufen von Urankeramiken, die fuer die Katalyse und fuer die Speicherung verbrauchter Kernbrennstoffe wichtig sind.

Synthesis of uranium and thorium dioxides by Complex Sol-Gel Processes (CSGP). Synthesis of uranium oxides by Complex Sol-Gel Processes (CSGP)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Deptula, A.; Brykala, M.; Lada, W.; Olczak, T.; Wawszczak, D.; Chmielewski, A.G.; Modolo, G.; Daniels, H.

2010-01-01

In the Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology (INCT), a new method of synthesis of uranium and thorium dioxides by original variant of sol-gel method - Complex Sol-Gel Process (CSGP), has been elaborated. The main modification step is the formation of nitrate-ascorbate sols from components alkalized by aqueous ammonia. Those sols were gelled into: - irregularly agglomerates by evaporation of water; - medium sized microspheres (diameter <150) by IChTJ variant of sol-gel processes by water extraction from drops of emulsion sols in 2-ethylhexanol-1 by this solvent. Uranium dioxide was obtained by a reduction of gels with hydrogen at temperatures >700 deg. C, while thorium dioxide by a simple calcination in the air atmosphere. (authors)

Uranium hetero-bimetallic complexes: synthesis, structure and magnetic properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Le Borgne, Th.

2000-01-01

The aim of this thesis is to synthesize molecular complexes with uranium and transition metal ions in close proximity, to determine the nature of the magnetic interaction between them. We decided to use Schiff bases as assembling ligands, which are unusual for uranium (IV). Although the simplest Schiff bases, such as H 2 Salen, lead to ligand exchange reactions, the bi-compartmental Schiff base H 4 L 6 (bis(3-hydroxy-salicylidene) - 2,2-dimethyl-propylene) allows the crystal structure determination of the complex [L 6 Cu(pyr)]U[L 6 Cu].2pyr, obtained by reaction of the metallo-ligand H 2 L 6 Cu with U(acac) 4 . In this manner, the complexes [L 6 Co(pyr)] 2 U and [L 6 Ni(pyr)] 2 U.pyr were also isolated, as well as the compounds in which the paramagnetic ions have been exchanged by the diamagnetic ions Zn II , Zr IV and Th IV ': [L 6 Zn(pyr)] 2 U, [L 6 Cu] 2 Zr and [L 6 Cu(pyr)]Th[L 6 Cu].2pyr. These complexes are the first which involve three metallic centres assembling by the means of a hexa-dentate Schiff base. The crystalline structures show, for all these complexes, the outstanding orthogonal arrangement of the two fragments L 6 M around the central atom which is in a dodecahedral environment of eight oxygen atoms of two Schiff bases. The syntheses of the isostructural complexes Cu2 II and Zn 2 U in which the uranium (IV) ion is close, in the first one, to the paramagnetic ion Cu II and, in the second one, to the diamagnetic ion Zn II , has allowed the use of the empiric method to determine the nature of the magnetic interaction between an f element and a transition metal. The comparison of the magnetic behaviour of two complexes Cu 2 U and Zn 2 U, expressed by the variation of χT vs T, reveals the ferromagnetic interaction in the heart of the triad Cu-U-Cu. The magnetic behaviour of the complexes Cu 2 Th et Cu 2 Zr which does not show any coupling between the two copper (II) ions and the weak antiferromagnetic interaction in the Ni 2 U compound, favour the

Uranium in 50 years? - Deeper, lower grade and more metallurgically complex? - 5312

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Polak, C.

2015-01-01

The economic exploitation of uranium deposits in the next 50 years will benefit from advances in mining and processing technology. The 'easiness' to find uranium deposits are a relic of the past. Exploration will need to make use of new technologies to help find blind or deep deposits. These issues are already being addressed by the uranium industry. Another issue will be to obtain social and environmental acceptation of the industry. To summarize the uranium mining industry is faced with 3 main challenges that are not necessarily mutually exclusive: deeper deposits, lower grades and chemically complex ores. The deposits of the next half of 21. century are likely to face at least one but potentially a combination of two or three of these challenges

Reactions of uranium (III) and (IV) compounds with ketones, nitriles and acid chlorides. Towards a use of uranium complexes in organic synthesis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Adam, Raymond

1993-01-01

In this research thesis, the author shows that various organic molecules can be interestingly transformed into uranium complexes with degrees of oxidation of +3 or +4. In a first part, the author describes reactions of carbonyl compounds with the UCl 4 -Na(Hg) reducing system. Then, he addresses reductions of ketones, nitriles and acid chlorides by a uranium (III) complex: Cp 3 U(THF). The third part reports a detailed study of the reduction of ketones by U(BH 4 ) 4 [fr

Coordination phenomena of cationic uranium(iv) complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rohwer, H.E.

1974-12-01

The coordination properties of the cationic uranium(IV) complexes UCl 3 + , UCl 2 2+ , UCl 3+ , and U 4+ were studied in a non-aqueous medium in the presence of perchlorate as counterion which, however, proved to coordinate to a much greater extent than expected. The strong neutral ligand, HMPA, could successively displace some of the perchlorates. An electrostatic model for the U(CIO 4 ) 4 -HMPA-acetone system compared favourably with the actual results. This emphasized the high ionic content in the bonding with actenoid cations, even with such a high charge as +4 . These conclusions are in agreement with studies 75 in which nitrate acts as counter ion. Correspondingly the uranium (IV) chemistry is characterized by the absence of typical 3d-organometallic chemistry, for example, strong bonding with CO, P(Phi) 3 etc, which strongly depends on covalent bonding. This stresses the fact that the d and f orbitals are not readily available for strong bond formation with the actenoids. 76

A Highly Expressed High-Molecular-Weight S-Layer Complex of Pelosinus sp. Strain UFO1 Binds Uranium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Thorgersen, Michael P. [Univ. of Georgia, Athens, GA (United States). Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Lancaster, W. Andrew [Univ. of Georgia, Athens, GA (United States). Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Rajeev, Lara [Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States). Biological Systems and Engineering Division; Ge, Xiaoxuan [Univ. of Georgia, Athens, GA (United States). Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Vaccaro, Brian J. [Univ. of Georgia, Athens, GA (United States). Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Poole, Farris L. [Univ. of Georgia, Athens, GA (United States). Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Arkin, Adam P. [Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States). Biological Systems and Engineering Division; Mukhopadhyay, Aindrila [Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States). Biological Systems and Engineering Division; Adams, Michael W. W. [Univ. of Georgia, Athens, GA (United States). Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

2016-12-02

Cell suspensions of Pelosinus sp. strain UFO1 were previously shown, using spectroscopic analysis, to sequester uranium as U(IV) complexed with carboxyl and phosphoryl group ligands on proteins. The goal of our present study was to characterize the proteins involved in uranium binding. Virtually all of the uranium in UFO1 cells was associated with a heterodimeric protein, which was termed the uranium-binding complex (UBC). The UBC was composed of two S-layer domain proteins encoded by UFO1_4202 and UFO1_4203. Samples of UBC purified from the membrane fraction contained 3.3 U atoms/heterodimer, but significant amounts of phosphate were not detected. The UBC had an estimated molecular mass by gel filtration chromatography of 15 MDa, and it was proposed to contain 150 heterodimers (UFO1_4203 and UFO1_4202) and about 500 uranium atoms. The UBC was also the dominant extracellular protein, but when purified from the growth medium, it contained only 0.3 U atoms/heterodimer. The two genes encoding the UBC were among the most highly expressed genes within the UFO1 genome, and their expressions were unchanged by the presence or absence of uranium. Therefore, the UBC appears to be constitutively expressed and is the first line of defense against uranium, including by secretion into the extracellular medium. Although S-layer proteins were previously shown to bind U(VI), here we showed that U(IV) binds to S-layer proteins, we identified the proteins involved, and we quantitated the amount of uranium bound. Widespread uranium contamination from industrial sources poses hazards to human health and to the environment. Here in this paper, we identified a highly abundant uranium-binding complex (UBC) from Pelosinus sp. strain UFO1. The complex makes up the primary protein component of the S-layer of strain UFO1 and binds 3.3 atoms of U(IV) per heterodimer. Finally, while other bacteria have been shown to bind U(VI) on their S-layer, we demonstrate here an example of U(IV) bound by

Public communication on times of environmental crisis. The opening of San Rafael 's uranium complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Calvino, Carlos; Cisneros, Martin

2008-01-01

Full text: Argentina has had a lot of cultural changes in the last few years. An environmental movement has gathered and is trying to stop the opening of the Sierra Pintada uranium complex, near the city of San Rafael, in the south of Mendoza province. Since 2005, several 'groundless information' have been published in the local media about the dangers of this re-opening. These news exaggerate the properties of radon gas, claiming that it will reach San Rafael city (20 miles from the complex), rising radiological risk among the population, etc. This scene shows a 'non-real' picture of the regulatory activities that the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (ARN), a government agency that regulates nuclear facilities in Argentina, is really and systematically accomplishing. In this situation, the board of Directors of ARN decided to entrust a full analysis of the environmental issue in the area. The Office of Press and Communication implemented a local communication plan, using a Strategic and Systemic tool kit. The period to be analyzed is from second semester 2005 to February 2007. A little bit of history: the San Rafael Complex started in September 20 of 1979. It belongs to the National Commission of Atomic Energy (CNEA), a government agency. Until its temporary suspension in 1995 for international market reasons (uranium price was U$S 10 / pound), almost 2 million tons of uranium were processed. Besides its temporary suspension, the ARN has been constantly monitoring this particular former complex. In the year 2001, CNEA notices that the uranium price starts to rise and entrust National Technology University, Avellaneda Branch, to accomplish an Environmental Impact Report, according to the argentine law 25.585. Due especially to the rising of uranium price, (actually, the uranium price is approximately U$S 200) the national government determined to restart the extraction of the mineral again. By the year 2004, with the results of the Environmental Impact report, CNEA

Phthalocyaninato complexes of thorium, protactinium and uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Beck, O.F.

1985-01-01

For the preparation of Bis(phthalocyaninato)-actinoid(IV) complexes, AnPc 2 , a new optimizing synthesis procedure was developed, with which it was possible to prepare spectrally pure, that is, H 2 Pc-free, ThPc 2 , UPc 2 and the isostructurally similar 231 PaPc 2 .PaPc 2 . This was verified with the help of electron spectra, which were compared to preparations which were synthesized in another manner. The corresponding perfluorinated compounds were also produced for thorium and uranium by use of tetrafluorophthalic acid nitrile instead of phthalic acid nitrile as initial product. Electron and infrared spectra show the typical bands of the non-substituted complexes. By the attempt to produce a mono(phthalocyaninato)-thorium complex with the use of ThI 4 as initial material a pyridine-extracted pure ThPcI 2 (py) 2 was obtained with a typical mono(phthalocyaninato) complex electron spectrum, an extremely moisture sensitive compound which in water or acids decomposes and produces H 2 Pc. (orig./RB) [de

Agpaitic nepheline syenites from the Ilimaussaq Complex, south Greenland; an important new uranium ore type (v.2)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mair, J.L.; Bunn, S.

2010-01-01

The Ilimaussaq Intrusive Complex in south Greenland is a layered alkaline igneous body that is predominantly comprised of agpaitic nepheline syenites. The Complex is now recognized as containing vast resources of uranium in polymetallic ores that are also strongly enriched in rare earth elements (REEs) and zinc. Uranium and REEs are dominantly hosted in phosphate minerals with a minor proportion hosted in zirconium silicate minerals. Equivalent ores are yet to be mined for uranium anywhere in the world; however, studies are well advanced in confirming a process route to economically extract uranium. The Ilimaussaq Complex is considered the world's type-locality for agpaitic rocks. Formation of the complex is attributed to four successive pulses of magma. The first produced an augite syenite, which now forms a marginal shell. This was followed by intrusion of a sheet of peralkaline granite. The third and fourth stages make up the bulk of the intrusion and are peralkaline to hyper-agpaitic in composition. The third batch of magma differentiated to produce pulaskite, foyaite and naujaite. Stage four produced the kakortokites and lujavrites, which are the units of particular economic significance. Kakortokites are strongly enriched in zirconium, niobium and tantalum, whereas the lujavrites are strongly enriched in uranium, rare earth elements, fluorine and zinc. Lujavrites are vertically zoned with arfvedonsite (black) lujavrites grading downward into aegerine (green) lujavrites. The upper most portions of the black lujavrites contain uranium concentrations of greater than 450 ppm, which decreases downward over 200 - 300m toward green lujavrites where uranium concentrations rarely exceeds 200 ppm. Resources defined to date in accordance with the Australian JORC code include 192 million lb. of U_3O_8 at 350 ppm within an overall resource of 282 million lb. of uranium oxide at a grade of 280 ppm. With scope for several other similar sized resources within complex, the

Synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of a uranium(VI) carbene imido oxo complex

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lu, Erli; Cooper, Oliver J.; McMaster, Jonathan; Lewis, William; Blake, Alexander J.; Liddle, Stephen T. [Nottingham Univ. (United Kingdom). School of Chemistry; Tuna, Floriana; McInnes, Eric J.L. [Manchester Univ. (United Kingdom). School of Chemistry and Photon Science Inst.

2014-06-23

We report the uranium(VI) carbene imido oxo complex [U(BIPM{sup TMS})(NMes)(O)(DMAP){sub 2}] (5, BIPM{sup TMS}=C(PPh{sub 2}NSiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}; Mes=2,4,6-Me{sub 3}C{sub 6}H{sub 2}; DMAP=4-(dimethylamino)pyridine) which exhibits the unprecedented arrangement of three formal multiply bonded ligands to one metal center where the coordinated heteroatoms derive from different element groups. This complex was prepared by incorporation of carbene, imido, and then oxo groups at the uranium center by salt elimination, protonolysis, and two-electron oxidation, respectively. The oxo and imido groups adopt axial positions in a T-shaped motif with respect to the carbene, which is consistent with an inverse trans-influence. Complex 5 reacts with tert-butylisocyanate at the imido rather than carbene group to afford the uranyl(VI) carbene complex [U(BIPM{sup TMS})(O){sub 2}(DMAP){sub 2}] (6).

Uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hamdoun, N.A.

2007-01-01

The article includes a historical preface about uranium, discovery of portability of sequential fission of uranium, uranium existence, basic raw materials, secondary raw materials, uranium's physical and chemical properties, uranium extraction, nuclear fuel cycle, logistics and estimation of the amount of uranium reserves, producing countries of concentrated uranium oxides and percentage of the world's total production, civilian and military uses of uranium. The use of depleted uranium in the Gulf War, the Balkans and Iraq has caused political and environmental effects which are complex, raising problems and questions about the effects that nuclear compounds left on human health and environment.

Method of preparation of uranium nitride

Science.gov (United States)

Kiplinger, Jaqueline Loetsch; Thomson, Robert Kenneth James

2013-07-09

Method for producing terminal uranium nitride complexes comprising providing a suitable starting material comprising uranium; oxidizing the starting material with a suitable oxidant to produce one or more uranium(IV)-azide complexes; and, sufficiently irradiating the uranium(IV)-azide complexes to produce the terminal uranium nitride complexes.

Determination of the stability constants of uranium-tetracycline complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tarenzi, L.R.; Saiki, M.

1983-01-01

Stability constants of complexes formed with tetracycline (TC) and uranium have been determined by solvent extraction technique. The site on the tetracycline molecule at which uranyl ion may be bound has been studied by means of potentiometric titration and spectrophotometric techniques. The complex species with 1:1 and 1:2 for UO 2 : TC ratio have been identified by conductometric titration. Solvent extraction studies have also shown that the complexes are mononuclear of the type UO 2 (TC) sub (n) (n=1,2) and that no hidroxocomplexes or negatively charged complexes have been formed. Stability constant values have been calculated by numerical weighted least square method and by graphical methods of two parameters, of the average number of ligands and of the limiting value. (Author) [pt

Recycled Uranium Mass Balance Project Y-12 National Security Complex Site Report

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2000-12-01

This report has been prepared to summarize the findings of the Y-12 National Security Complex (Y-12 Complex) Mass Balance Project and to support preparation of associated U. S. Department of Energy (DOE) site reports. The project was conducted in support of DOE efforts to assess the potential for health and environmental issues resulting from the presence of transuranic (TRU) elements and fission products in recycled uranium (RU) processed by DOE and its predecessor agencies. The United States government used uranium in fission reactors to produce plutonium and tritium for nuclear weapons production. Because uranium was considered scarce relative to demand when these operations began almost 50 years ago, the spent fuel from U.S. fission reactors was processed to recover uranium for recycling. The estimated mass balance for highly enriched RU, which is of most concern for worker exposure and is the primary focus of this project, is summarized in a table. A discrepancy in the mass balance between receipts and shipments (plus inventory and waste) reflects an inability to precisely distinguish between RU and non-RU shipments and receipts involving the Y-12 Complex and Savannah River. Shipments of fresh fuel (non-RU) and sweetener (also non-RU) were made from the Y-12 Complex to Savannah River along with RU shipments. The only way to distinguish between these RU and non-RU streams using available records is by enrichment level. Shipments of {le}90% enrichment were assumed to be RU. Shipments of >90% enrichment were assumed to be non-RU fresh fuel or sweetener. This methodology using enrichment level to distinguish between RU and non-RU results in good estimates of RU flows that are reasonably consistent with Savannah River estimates. Although this is the best available means of distinguishing RU streams, this method does leave a difference of approximately 17.3 MTU between receipts and shipments. Slightly depleted RU streams received by the Y-12 Complex from ORGDP and

Development of complex electrokinetic decontamination method for soil contaminated with uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kim, Gye-Nam; Kim, Seung-Soo; Park, Hye-Min; Kim, Wan-Suk; Moon, Jei-Kwon; Hyeon, Jay-Hyeok

2012-01-01

520L complex electrokinetic soil decontamination equipment was manufactured to clean up uranium contaminated soils from Korean nuclear facilities. To remove uranium at more than 95% from the radioactive soil through soil washing and electrokinetic technology, decontamination experiments were carried out. To reduce the generation of large quantities of metal oxides in cathode, a pH controller is used to control the pH of the electrolyte waste solution between 0.5 and 1 for the formation of UO 2+ . More than 80% metal oxides were removed through pre-washing, an electrolyte waste solution was circulated by a pump, and a metal oxide separator filtered the metal oxide particles. 80–85% of the uranium was removed from the soil by soil washing as part of the pre-treatment. When the initial uranium concentration of the soil was 21.7 Bq/g, the required electrokinetic decontamination time was 25 days. When the initial concentration of 238 U in the soil was higher, a longer decontamination time was needed, but the removal rate of 238 U from the soil was higher.

Characterization of the sorption of uranium(VI) on different complexing resins

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pesavento, Maria; Biesuz, Raffaela; Alberti, Giancarla; Sturini, Michela [Dipartimento di Chimica Generale dell' Universita degli Studi di Pavia, Via Taramelli 12, 27100, Pavia (Italy)

2003-08-01

The sorption of uranium(VI) on two cationic resins containing different complexing groups, the iminodiacetic resin Chelex 100 and the weak carboxylic resin Amberlite CG-50, was investigated. The Gibbs-Donnan model was used to describe and to predict the sorption through the determination of the intrinsic complexation constants. These quantities, even though non-thermodynamic, characterize the sorption as being independent of experimental conditions. The sorption mechanism of the metal on the complexing resins was also studied by adding a competitive soluble ligand that shifts the sorption curves to higher pH values. The ligand competes with the resin for the complexation with the metal ion. Uranium is also strongly sorbed on Chelex 100 at very acid pH, through formation of two complexes in the resin phase: ML with log{beta}{sub 110i}=-1.16, in more acidic solution, and ML{sub 2}with log {beta}{sub 120i}=-5.72. Only the presence of the competitive ligand in solution makes the determination of the second complex possible. Also on Amberlite CG-50 the sorption is strong and involves the formation of the complex ML {sub 2}, in more acidic solution, with log {beta}{sub 120i}=-3.16. In the presence of the ligand EDTA, the complex ML {sub 2}(OH) {sub 2}was characterized with log {beta}{sub 12-2i}=-5.15. In all the experiments the hydrolysis reaction in the aqueous phase was quantitatively considered. (orig.)

Characterization of the sorption of uranium(VI) on different complexing resins

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pesavento, Maria; Biesuz, Raffaela; Alberti, Giancarla; Sturini, Michela

2003-01-01

The sorption of uranium(VI) on two cationic resins containing different complexing groups, the iminodiacetic resin Chelex 100 and the weak carboxylic resin Amberlite CG-50, was investigated. The Gibbs-Donnan model was used to describe and to predict the sorption through the determination of the intrinsic complexation constants. These quantities, even though non-thermodynamic, characterize the sorption as being independent of experimental conditions. The sorption mechanism of the metal on the complexing resins was also studied by adding a competitive soluble ligand that shifts the sorption curves to higher pH values. The ligand competes with the resin for the complexation with the metal ion. Uranium is also strongly sorbed on Chelex 100 at very acid pH, through formation of two complexes in the resin phase: ML with logβ 110i =-1.16, in more acidic solution, and ML 2 with log β 120i =-5.72. Only the presence of the competitive ligand in solution makes the determination of the second complex possible. Also on Amberlite CG-50 the sorption is strong and involves the formation of the complex ML 2 , in more acidic solution, with log β 120i =-3.16. In the presence of the ligand EDTA, the complex ML 2 (OH) 2 was characterized with log β 12-2i =-5.15. In all the experiments the hydrolysis reaction in the aqueous phase was quantitatively considered. (orig.)

Adsorption of uranium(VI) to manganese oxides: X-ray absorption spectroscopy and surface complexation modeling.

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Zimeng; Lee, Sung-Woo; Catalano, Jeffrey G; Lezama-Pacheco, Juan S; Bargar, John R; Tebo, Bradley M; Giammar, Daniel E

2013-01-15

The mobility of hexavalent uranium in soil and groundwater is strongly governed by adsorption to mineral surfaces. As strong naturally occurring adsorbents, manganese oxides may significantly influence the fate and transport of uranium. Models for U(VI) adsorption over a broad range of chemical conditions can improve predictive capabilities for uranium transport in the subsurface. This study integrated batch experiments of U(VI) adsorption to synthetic and biogenic MnO(2), surface complexation modeling, ζ-potential analysis, and molecular-scale characterization of adsorbed U(VI) with extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy. The surface complexation model included inner-sphere monodentate and bidentate surface complexes and a ternary uranyl-carbonato surface complex, which was consistent with the EXAFS analysis. The model could successfully simulate adsorption results over a broad range of pH and dissolved inorganic carbon concentrations. U(VI) adsorption to synthetic δ-MnO(2) appears to be stronger than to biogenic MnO(2), and the differences in adsorption affinity and capacity are not associated with any substantial difference in U(VI) coordination.

Synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of a uranium(VI) carbene imido oxo complex

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lu, Erli; Cooper, Oliver J.; McMaster, Jonathan; Lewis, William; Blake, Alexander J.; Liddle, Stephen T. [School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham (United Kingdom); Tuna, Floriana; McInnes, Eric J.L. [School of Chemistry and Photon Science Institute, University of Manchester (United Kingdom)

2014-06-23

We report the uranium(VI) carbene imido oxo complex [U(BIPM{sup TMS})(NMes)(O)(DMAP){sub 2}] (5, BIPM{sup TMS}=C(PPh{sub 2}NSiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}; Mes=2,4,6-Me{sub 3}C{sub 6}H{sub 2}; DMAP=4-(dimethylamino)pyridine) which exhibits the unprecedented arrangement of three formal multiply bonded ligands to one metal center where the coordinated heteroatoms derive from different element groups. This complex was prepared by incorporation of carbene, imido, and then oxo groups at the uranium center by salt elimination, protonolysis, and two-electron oxidation, respectively. The oxo and imido groups adopt axial positions in a T-shaped motif with respect to the carbene, which is consistent with an inverse trans-influence. Complex 5 reacts with tert-butylisocyanate at the imido rather than carbene group to afford the uranyl(VI) carbene complex [U(BIPM{sup TMS})(O){sub 2}(DMAP){sub 2}] (6). (copyright 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Complex formation of uranium(VI) with fructose and glucose phosphates

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Koban, A.; Geipel, G.; Bernhard, G.; Fanghaenel, T.

2002-01-01

The uptake of heavy metals into plants is commonly quantified by the soil-plant transfer factor. Up to now little is known about the chemical speciation of actinides in plants. To compare the obtained spectroscopic data of uranium complexes in plants with model compounds, we investigate the complexation of uranium with relevant bioligands of various functionalities. A very important class of ligands consists of phosphate esters, which serve as phosphate group and energy transmitters as well as energy storage media in biological systems. Heavy metal ions bound to the phosphate esters can be transported into living cells and then deposited. Therefore, in our study we present the results of uranium complexation with glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), and fructose-6-phosphate (F6P) obtained by time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (TRLFS). The experiments were performed at a fixed uranyl concentration (10 -5 M) as a function of the ligand concentrations (10 -5 to 10 -3 M) in a pH range from 2 to 4.5. For the glucose phosphate system we observed, using increasing ligand concentrations, a decrease in the fluorescence intensity and a small red shift of the emission bands. From this we conclude that the complexed uranyl glucose phosphate species show only minor or no fluorescence properties. The TRLFS spectra of the glucose phosphate samples indicated the presence of a single species with fluorescence properties. This species has a lifetime of approximately 1.5 μs and was identified as the free uranyl ion. An opposite phenomenon was observed for the fructose phosphate system: there was no decrease in fluorescence intensity. However, a strong red shift of the spectra was observed, illustrating the fluorescence properties of the uranyl fructose phosphate complex. The TRLFS spectra of the fructose phosphate system showed a second lifetime ( 2 2+ UO 2 (lig) x (2-y)+ + y H + (lig = sugar phosphate). Applying the mass action law and transformation to the logarithmic

Radioactive effluents, Portsmouth Uranium Enrichment Complex, calendar year 1983

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Acox, T.A.; Klein, L.S.

1984-03-01

Radioactive discharges from the Portsmouth Uranium Enrichment Complex are discussed and tabulated. Tables indicate both the location of the discharge and the nuclides discharged. Routine discharges for 1983 are well below the Radioactive Concentration Guide limits specified in DOE Order 5480.1, Chapter XI. There was, however, an unplanned release in December from the X-326 Building Side Purge which exceeded the limits. 1 figure

Vibrational spectroscopy and structural analysis of uranium complexes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Umrejko, D.S.; Nikanovich, M.V.

1984-12-01

On the basis of experimental and theoretical studies of vibbrational spectra for halides, sulfates, phosphates, uranyl oxalates (and uranium) as well as for more complicated complex systems, reliable spectroscopic criteria have been established for estimation of their structural features by more simple and accessible (than direct) methods. Due to coordination to a central ion of U/sup 6/(U/sup 4/) ligands a geometry variation specific for each method of addition occurs and concomitant redistribution of the force interaction in the mentioned system as well, which directly affects the variation of their frequency characteristics and vibration modes. On this ground stable indications of particular types of coordination for mono- and polyatomic groups (including bridge-type, characteristic of polymetric structures) are pointed out in the IR absorption and Raman spectra. In the investigated structures the predominant effect of coordination on the spectral properties of complexes, as compared with other factors (for example, outer-sphere binding) is established. The presence of water molecules in an interlayer space does not tell essentially on the state of polyatomic ligands with all donor atoms bound with the uranium central atom (particularly, in binary uranyl phosphates). In the presence of free oxygen atoms the H/sub 2/O effect can lead only to some shift of the maxima of separate bands and their additional weak splitting (in uranyl sulfates).

The Y-12 National Security Complex Foreign Research Reactor Uranium Supply Production

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nelson, T. [Nuclear Technology and Nonproliferation Programs, B and W Y-12, L.L.C., Y-12 National Security Complex, Oak Ridge, Tennessee (United States); Keller, A.P. [Disposition and Supply Programs, B and W Y-12, L.L.C., Y-12 National Security Complex, Oak Ridge, Tennessee (United States)

2011-07-01

The Foreign Research Reactor (FRR) Uranium Supply Program at the Y-12 National Security Complex supports the nonproliferation objectives of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) HEU Disposition, the Reduced Enrichment Research and Test Reactors (RERTR), and the United States (U.S.) FRR Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF) Acceptance Programs. The FRR Supply Program supports the important U.S. government nuclear nonproliferation commitment to serve as a reliable and cost-effective uranium supplier for those foreign research reactors that are converting or have converted to Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU) fuel under the RERTR Program. The NNSA Y-12 Site Office maintains the prime contracts with foreign government agencies for the supply of LEU for their research reactors. The LEU is produced by down blending Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) that has been declared surplus to the U.S. national defense needs. The down blending and sale of the LEU supports the Surplus HEU Disposition Program Record of Decision to make the HEU non-weapons usable and to recover the economic value of the uranium to the extent feasible. In addition to uranium metal feedstock for fuel fabrication, Y-12 can produce LEU in different forms to support new fuel development or target fabrication for medical isotope production. With production improvements and efficient delivery preparations, Y-12 continues to successfully support the global research reactor community. (author)

Uranium management activities

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jackson, D.; Marshall, E.; Sideris, T.; Vasa-Sideris, S.

2001-01-01

One of the missions of the Department of Energy's (DOE) Oak Ridge Office (ORO) has been the management of the Department's uranium materials. This mission has been accomplished through successful integration of ORO's uranium activities with the rest of the DOE complex. Beginning in the 1980's, several of the facilities in that complex have been shut down and are in the decommissioning process. With the end of the Cold War, the shutdown of many other facilities is planned. As a result, inventories of uranium need to be removed from the Department facilities. These inventories include highly enriched uranium (HEU), low enriched uranium (LEU), normal uranium (NU), and depleted uranium (DU). The uranium materials exist in different chemical forms, including metals, oxides, solutions, and gases. Much of the uranium in these inventories is not needed to support national priorities and programs. (author)

Vibrational spectroscopy and structural analysis of complex uranium compounds (review)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Umreiko, D.S.; Nikanovich, M.V.

1985-01-01

The paper reports on the combined application of experimental and theoretical methods of vibrational spectroscopy together with low-temperature luminescence data to determine the characteristic features of the formation and structure of complex systems, not only containing ligands directly coordinated to the CA uranium, but also associated with the extraspherical polyatomic electrically charged particles: organic cations. These include uranyl complexes and heterocyclical amines. Studied here were compounds of tetra-halouranylates with pyridine and its derivates, as well as dipyridyl, quinoline and phenanthroline. Structural schemes are also proposed for other uranyl complexes with protonated heterocyclical amines with a more complicated composition, which correctly reflect their spectroscopic properties

1. Mono([8]annulene)Uranium(4) half-sandwich complexes, 2. Novel syntheses of symmetrically substituted cyclooctatetetraenes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boussie, T.R.

1991-10-01

A reproducible, high-yield synthesis of mono([8]annulene)uranium(4)dichloride (1) is reported, along with the X-ray crystal structural of the bis(pyridine) adduct. Metathesis reactions of the half-sandwich complex 1 with a variety of simple alkyl and alkoxy reagents failed to generate any isolable mono-ring complexes. Reactions of 1 with polydentate, delocalized anions did produce stable derivatives, including mono([8]annulene)uranium(4)bis(acetylacetonate) (4). An X-ray crystal structure of 4 is reported

1. Mono([8]annulene)Uranium(4) half-sandwich complexes, 2. Novel syntheses of symmetrically substituted cyclooctatetetraenes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Boussie, Thomas Richard [Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA (United States)

1991-10-01

A reproducible, high-yield synthesis of mono([8]annulene)uranium(4)dichloride (1) is reported, along with the X-ray crystal structural of the bis(pyridine) adduct. Metathesis reactions of the half-sandwich complex 1 with a variety of simple alkyl and alkoxy reagents failed to generate any isolable mono-ring complexes. Reactions of 1 with polydentate, delocalized anions did produce stable derivatives, including mono([8]annulene)uranium(4)bis(acetylacetonate) (4). An X-ray crystal structure of 4 is reported.

1. Mono((8)annulene)Uranium(4) half-sandwich complexes, 2. Novel syntheses of symmetrically substituted cyclooctatetetraenes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Boussie, T.R.

1991-10-01

A reproducible, high-yield synthesis of mono((8)annulene)uranium(4)dichloride (1) is reported, along with the X-ray crystal structural of the bis(pyridine) adduct. Metathesis reactions of the half-sandwich complex 1 with a variety of simple alkyl and alkoxy reagents failed to generate any isolable mono-ring complexes. Reactions of 1 with polydentate, delocalized anions did produce stable derivatives, including mono((8)annulene)uranium(4)bis(acetylacetonate) (4). An X-ray crystal structure of 4 is reported.

New South African complex leaches gold, uranium, and sulphur from slimes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Payne, A.

1978-01-01

Slimes dams at various mines in the Orange Free State and the Transvaal are being re-treated to recover U, Au, and H/sub 2/SO/sub 4/. Components of the Free State Metallurgical Complex include flotation plants, a uranium plant, the President Brand plant for H/sub 2/SO/sub 4/ production from the pyrite concentrates, and a calcine leaching plant for producing gold from the calcines of the acid plant. Reasons for the complex and its operation are discussed. (DLC)

Biotransformation of uranium and transition metal citrate complexes by clostridia

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Francis, A.J.; Joshi-Tope, G.A.; Dodge, C.J.; Gillow, J.B.

2002-01-01

Clostridium sphenoides, which uses citric acid as its sole carbon source, metabolized equimolar Fe(III)-citrate with the degradation of citric acid and the reduction of Fe(III) to Fe(II), but not the U(VI)-citrate complex. However, in the presence of excess citric acid or added glucose it was reduced to U(IV)-citrate. In contrast, Clostridium sp., which ferments glucose but not citrate, reduced Fe(III)-citrate to Fe(II)-citrate and U(VI)-citrate to U(IV)-citrate only when supplied with glucose. These results show that complexed uranium is readily accessible as an electron acceptor despite the bacterium's inability to metabolize the organic ligand complexed to the actinide. These results also show that the metabolism of the metal-citrate complex depends upon the type of complex formed between the metal and citric acid. Fe(III) forms a bidentate complex with citric acid and was metabolized, whereas U forms a binuclear complex with citric acid and was recalcitrant. (author)

Thermochemistry of the complex oxides of uranium, vanadium, and alkali metals

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Karyakin, N.V.; Chernorukov, N.G.; Suleimanov, E.V.; Kharyushina, E.A.

1992-01-01

The standard enthalpies of the formation at T 298.15 K of complex oxides of uranium(VI), vanadium(V) and alkali metals with the general formula M 1 VUO 6 where M 1 = Na, K, Rb, and Cs, were calculated from the results of calorimetric experiments and from published data. 8 refs., 1 tab

Radiological risk assessment of U(nat) in the ground water around Jaduguda uranium mining complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sethy, N.K.; Jha, V.N.; Shukla, A.K.; Tripathi, R.M.; Puranik, V.D.

2010-01-01

Uranium is present naturally in earth crust and hence at trace level in ground water, sea water, building materials etc. Naturally occurring radionuclide originating from industrial activities, metal mining and waste depository may contribute to the nearby ground water by radionuclide migration. Ground water ecosystem surrounding the uranium processing facility at Jaduguda has been studied for natural uranium distribution. In the present study, the drinking water sources at various distance zone (with in 1.6 km, 1.6-5 km and > 5km) covering all directions around the waste depository (tailings pond) have been investigated for uranium content. Evaluation of intake, ingestion dose and subsequent risk for population residing around the tailings pond has been carried out. Annual intake of uranium through drinking water for members of public residing around the uranium complex is found to be in the range of 41.8 - 44.4 Bq.y -1 . The intake and ingestion dose is appreciably low ( -1 ) which is far below the WHO recommended level of 100 Sv.y -1 . The life time radiological risk due to uranium natural in drinking water is insignificant and found to be of the order of 10 -6 . (author)

Interest of uranium complexes for the mechanism study of the McMurry reaction; Interet des complexes de l`uranium pour l`etude du mecanisme de la reaction de McMurry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Maury, O

1997-07-04

The reducing coupling reactions of ketones in diols and olefins are generally carried out with titanium or samarium compounds. In this work uranium complexes have been used. They have allowed to study the chemical reaction mechanism. This thesis is divided into three parts: 1) the reduction mechanism of uranium tetrachloride by cyclic voltametry has been studied at first. It has been shown that this reduction is followed by a transfer reaction of chlorides between the reduced specie of the higher electronic density and UCl . 2) In the second part is described: the synthesis, the crystal structure, the reactivity of the chemical agents, the stereochemistry of diols and alkenes formation and the pinacolisation reaction catalysis. 3) In the last part, the limits of the McMurry reaction are given by the study of the aromatic ketones pinacolisation reaction by-products. The obtained results show that the complexes of the metals which present a high reducing and oxo-philic (Ti, Sm, U..) character react in a similar way with the carbonyl compounds. If the uranium compounds are less used than those of the titanium in the field of the organic synthesis applications, they are precious auxiliaries and excellent models for reactions mechanisms study and for the synthesis methods optimization. (O.M.). 284 refs.

Chromatographic retention of molybdenum, titanium and uranium complexes for removal of some interferences in inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jiang, S.-J.; Palmieri, M.D.; Fritz, J.S.; Houk, R.S.; Iowa State Univ., of Science and Technology, Ames

1987-01-01

Complexes of molybdenum(VI) or titanium(IV) with N-methylfurohydroxamic acid (N-MFHA) are retained on a column packed with polystyrene/divinylbenzene. At the pH values chosen, copper, zinc and cadmium are washed rapidly through the column and are detected by inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry without interference from metal oxide ions of titanium or molybdenum. Detection limits are 1 to 2 μg l -1 , and analyte recoveries are essentially 100%. The resin capacity for the titanium and molybdenum complexes is sufficient for several hundred injections, and the complexes can be readily washed from the column. Uranium(VI) also forms a stable complex with N-MFHA, and ionization interference caused by excess of uranium can be avoided by chromatographic removal of the uranium complex. Various other potentially interfering elements with aqueous oxidation states of +4 or higher (e.g. Sn, W, Hf or Zr) could also be separated by this technique. 33 refs.; 4 figs.; 3 tabs

Extraction of uranium from sea water by means of fibrous complex adsorbents

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Miyamatsu, Tokuhisa; Oguchi, Noboru; Kanchiku, Yoshihiko; Aoyagi, Takanobu

1982-01-01

Fibrous complex adsorbents for uranium extraction from sea water were prepared by introducing titanic acid or basic zinc carbonate as effective constituents into fibrous ion exchangers. A fibrous chelate type adsorbent was also tested. Among the adsorbents examined, the following ones demonstrated excellent properties for the recovery of uranium from sea water. a) A fibrous, weakly acidic cation exchanger was treated with titanyl sulfate in aqueous sulfuric acid solution, which was followed by neutralization to afford a fibrous adsorbent containing titanic acid (QC-1f(Ti)). The adsorption capacity for uranium in sea water was estimated by extrapolation to be 50μg-U/g-Ad or 1170 μg-U/g-Ti. b) A fibrous, strongly acidic cation exchanger was treated in a similar way to afford another type of fibrous adsorbent with titanic acid incorporated (QCS-Ti). The adsorption capacity was estimated by extrapolation to be 20-30 μg-U/g-Ad. (author)

Chemical thermodynamics of uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Grenthe, I.; Fuger, J.; Lemire, R.J.; Muller, A.B.; Nguyen-Trung Cregu, C.; Wanner, H.

1992-01-01

A comprehensive overview on the chemical thermodynamics of those elements that are of particular importance in the safety assessment of radioactive waste disposal systems is provided. This is the first volume in a series of critical reviews to be published on this subject. The book provides an extensive compilation of chemical thermodynamic data for uranium. A description of procedures for activity corrections and uncertainty estimates is given. A critical discussion of data needed for nuclear waste management assessments, including areas where significant gaps of knowledge exist is presented. A detailed inventory of chemical thermodynamic data for inorganic compounds and complexes of uranium is listed. Data and their uncertainty limits are recommended for 74 aqueous complexes and 199 solid and 31 gaseous compounds containing uranium, and on 52 aqueous and 17 solid auxiliary species containing no uranium. The data are internally consistent and compatible with the CODATA Key Values. The book contains a detailed discussion of procedures used for activity factor corrections in aqueous solution, as well as including methods for making uncertainty estimates. The recommended data have been prepared for use in environmental geochemistry. Containing contributions written by experts the chapters cover various subject areas such a s: oxide and hydroxide compounds and complexes, the uranium nitrides, the solid uranium nitrates and the arsenic-containing uranium compounds, uranates, procedures for consistent estimation of entropies, gaseous and solid uranium halides, gaseous uranium oxides, solid phosphorous-containing uranium compounds, alkali metal uranates, uncertainties, standards and conventions, aqueous complexes, uranium minerals dealing with solubility products and ionic strength corrections. The book is intended for nuclear research establishments and consulting firms dealing with uranium mining and nuclear waste disposal, as well as academic and research institutes

Interest of uranium complexes for the mechanism study of the McMurry reaction

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maury, O.

1997-01-01

The reducing coupling reactions of ketones in diols and olefins are generally carried out with titanium or samarium compounds. In this work uranium complexes have been used. They have allowed to study the chemical reaction mechanism. This thesis is divided into three parts: 1) the reduction mechanism of uranium tetrachloride by cyclic voltametry has been studied at first. It has been shown that this reduction is followed by a transfer reaction of chlorides between the reduced specie of the higher electronic density and UCl . 2) In the second part is described: the synthesis, the crystal structure, the reactivity of the chemical agents, the stereochemistry of diols and alkenes formation and the pinacolisation reaction catalysis. 3) In the last part, the limits of the McMurry reaction are given by the study of the aromatic ketones pinacolisation reaction by-products. The obtained results show that the complexes of the metals which present a high reducing and oxo-philic (Ti, Sm, U..) character react in a similar way with the carbonyl compounds. If the uranium compounds are less used than those of the titanium in the field of the organic synthesis applications, they are precious auxiliaries and excellent models for reactions mechanisms study and for the synthesis methods optimization. (O.M.)

Decontamination of Uranium-Contaminated Soil Sand Using Supercritical CO2 with a TBP–HNO3 Complex

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Kwangheon Park

2015-09-01

Full Text Available An environmentally friendly decontamination process for uranium-contaminated soil sand is proposed. The process uses supercritical CO2 as the cleaning solvent and a TBP–HNO3 complex as the reagent. Four types of samples (sea sand and coarse, medium, and fine soil sand were artificially contaminated with uranium. The effects of the amount of the reagent, sand type, and elapsed time after the preparation of the samples on decontamination were examined. The extraction ratios of uranium in all of the four types of sand samples were very high when the time that elapsed after preparation was less than a few days. The extraction ratio of uranium decreased in the soil sand with a higher surface area as the elapsed time increased, indicating the possible formation of chemisorbed uranium on the surface of the samples. The solvent of supercritical CO2 seemed to be very effective in the decontamination of soil sand. However, the extraction of chemisorbed uranium in soil sand may need additional processes, such as the application of mechanical vibration and the addition of bond-breaking reagents.

Study of uranium +4 stabilization by the formation of a complex with a heteropolyanion ligand, for its off-lines analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bion, L.

1995-01-01

The study of the behaviour of uranium in oxidation state +4, during uranium/plutonium separation step of the PUREX process for reprocessing nuclear fuels, requires the availability of an efficient analytical method allowing the stabilization and off-line analysis of sample of aqueous and organic solutions containing this reagent. It was accordingly decided to develop a stabilization method using the heteropolyanion P 2 W 17 O 61 10- (PWO ' ) as a selective ligand. Besides the stabilization effect, the complexation of uranium +4 results in the appearance of an intense and specific band on the visible absorption spectrum of the formed U(PWO) 2 16- complex. This property made it possible to consider the sensitive spectrophotometric analysis of the sample. The work presented first helped to determine, in the presence of PWO, the characteristic thermodynamic data of the reaction involving uranium +4 and +6, plutonium +3 and +4, nitrous and nitric acids, and hydrazine. In the light of these results, it was possible to plan the development of the stabilisation method. The use of PWO thus helped (1) to design a method capable of stopping any reaction involving the uranium +4 / uranium +6 pair, and (2) to perform the simple analysis of uranium +4. The study presented in the second part uses the example of the U 4+ cation to understand the reasons for the selectivity of the complexation of actinides +4 by PWO. Owing to the remarkable spectroscopic and magnetic properties of this cation, ti was possible to acquire data concerning the structure of the U(PWO) 2 16- complex, both in solution and in the solid state. It was thus demonstrated that the geometry of the environment of U 4+ (eight oxygen forming a cubic anti-prism), which is perfectly complementary to that of the 5f electron wave functions of the actinide, helps to explain the selectivity of the complexation of actinides +4. (author). refs., 46 figs., 40 tabs

Foreign research reactor uranium supply program: The Y-12 national security complex process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nelson, T.; Eddy, B.G.

2010-01-01

The Foreign Research Reactor (FRR) Uranium Supply Program at the Y-12 National Security Complex supports the nonproliferation objectives of the HEU Disposition Program, the Reduced Enrichment Research and Test Reactors (RERTR) Program, and the United States FRR Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF) Acceptance Program. The Y-12 National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Y-12 Site Office maintains the prime contracts with foreign governments for the supply of Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU) for their research reactors. The LEU is produced by down blending Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) that has been declared surplus to the U.S. national defense needs. The down blending and sale of the LEU supports the Surplus HEU Disposition Program Record of Decision to make the HEU non-weapons usable and to recover the economic value of the uranium to the extent feasible. This program supports the important U.S. government and nuclear nonproliferation commitment to serve as a reliable and cost-effective uranium supplier for those foreign research reactors that are converting or have converted to LEU fuel under the guidance of the NNSA RERTR Program. In conjunction with the FRR SNF Acceptance Program which supports the global nonproliferation efforts to disposition U.S.-origin HEU, the Y-12 FRR Uranium Supply Program can provide the LEU for the replacement fuel fabrication. In addition to feedstock for fuel fabrication, Y-12 supplies LEU for target fabrication for medical isotope production. The Y-12 process uses supply forecasting tools, production improvements and efficient delivery preparations to successfully support the global research reactor community

Study of aqueous complexes of uranium (IV) in an acid medium by nuclear magnetic resonance

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kiener, C.; Folcher, G.; Rigny, P.; Virlet, J.

1976-01-01

The hydration of tetravalent uranium in acid solutions has been studied by proton magnetic resonance. Longitudinal and transversal relaxation rates of water are reported as a function of temperature, acidity, and added ions. The relaxation rates observed in perchloric solutions at high temperature are governed by the exchange process of water molecules between the inner coordination sphere of uranium(IV) and the bulk water. The bound proton's lifetime lies between 10 ms and 1 s. At pH > 0, the exchange rate depends upon acidity according to a simple expression. At high concentrations of diamagnetic ions the exchange rate depends linearly upon water activity. At low temperature, the proton relaxation rates are dominated by an outer sphere effect and the electronic relaxation time of uranium(IV) is found to be about 10 -13 s. No signal is observed from protons of the water molecules in the first sphere, firmly bound to uranium(IV), which undergo rapid relaxation. The chemical shift of the proton absorption signal in hydrochloric solutions arise from tightly bound water molecules in paramagnetic interaction with uranium(IV) in a second sphere, and in fast exchange with the bulk water. Above a chlorine concentration of 6 M, the monochloro complex of uranium(IV) contributes to the chemical shift. (author)

Vaal Reefs South uranium plant

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anon.

1979-01-01

The Vaal Reefs mining complex, part of the Anglo American Corporation, is the largest gold and uranium producing complex in the world, being South Africa's principal producer, accounting for about a quarter of the country's uranium production. Vaal Reefs South uranium plant in the Orkney district was recently officially opened by Dr AJA Roux, the retiring president of the Atomic Energy Board and chairman of the Uranium Enrichment Corporation and will increase the country's uranium production. In the field of technology, and particularly processing technology, South Africa has shown the world unprecedented technology achievement in the field of uranium extraction from low grade ores and the development of the unique uranium enrichment process. New technical innovations that have been incorporated in this new plant are discussed

Complex formation between uranium(VI) and α-D-glucose 1-phosphate

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Koban, A.; Geipel, G.; Bernhard, G.

2003-01-01

The complex formation of uranium(VI) with α-D-glucose 1-phosphate (C 6 H 11 O 6 PO 3 2- , G1P) was determined by time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (TRLFS) at pH 4 and potentiometric titration in the pH range from 3 to 10. Both measurements show the formation of a 1 : 1 complex at lower pH values. The formation constant of UO 2 (C 6 H 11 O 6 PO 3 ) was calculated from TRLFS measurements to be log β 11 = 5.72±0.12, and from potentiometric titration log β 11 = 5.40±0.25, respectively. It was found by potentiometric titration that at higher pH values the complexation changes to a 1 : 2 complex. The stability constant for this complex was calculated to be log β 12 = 8.96±0.18. (orig.)

Distribution of radium and chemical toxins in the environment of a uranium complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Markose, P.M.; Eapen, K.P.; Venkataraman, S.; Kamath, P.R.

1978-01-01

The discharge of waste effluents from mining and milling of uranium ore brings into the aquatic environment radioactive pollutants and chemical toxins. The radioactive element of primary concern is radium and the nonactive pollutants are manganese, chlorides, sulphates and water hardness. In the Uranium Complex, Bihar (India), the low grade ore is mined and processed for recovery of uranium. The waste slurries from the process are neutralised and discharged into the tailings pond(TP) where the solids settle and the effluents flow out into a natural stream, Jurianala. The TP effluent mixes with mine water and floor washings from the mill in the canal on its down stream course to the river, R. Subarnarekha. This study was conducted to assess the total pollution from the liquid discharges in the environment and the impact of discharge on water quality. The results of the study of movement of pollutants in the biosphere and laboratory investigations on containment are presented. (author)

Complexes of uranium tetrachlorides and thorium tetrachloride with N-methylpiperazine, 2-methylpiperazine, N-phenylpiperazine, N,N'-dimethylpiperazine and pyrazine

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Manhas, B S; Trikha, A K [Punjabi Univ., Patiala (India). Dept. of Chemistry; Singh, M

1979-01-01

Stable complexes of uranium tetrachloride and thorium tetrachloride with the title ligands have been synthesised and characterised on the basis of elemental analyses, IR and electronic reflectance spectral studies and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The ligands probably coordinate in the chair conformation bridging the metal ions as indicated by IR spectral studies and insolubility of these complexes in common organic solvents. A coordination number of six for uranium (IV) is suggested by the electronic reflectance spectral and magnetic susceptibility data.

Study of new complexes of uranium and comba radical. II-Complexes formed in the presence of OH-, CO3H, CH3-COO-, and B4O7

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vera Palomino, V.; Galiano Sedano, J. A.; Parellada Bellod, R.; Bellido Gonzalez, A.

1975-01-01

Several complexes extracted with CDMBAC organic solutions from uranium aqueous solutions, in presence of sodium and ammonium hydroxides, are studied. These complexes fit to the general formula: U0 2 (OH) n (C[DMBA) n -2 . The uranium extraction in presence of an excess of sodium bicarbonate is also studied. From aqueous solutions of uranyl acetate we have isolated the complex U0 2 (CH 3 -C00) n (CDMBA) n -2. In presence of boric acid and sodium tetraborate an U-CDMBA compound containing boron in its molecule has being obtained by precipitation and liquid-liquid extraction. (Author) 5 refs

Synthesis and reduction of uranium(V) imido complexes with redox-active substituents

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mullane, Kimberly C.; Carroll, Patrick J.; Schelter, Eric J. [P. Roy and Diana T. Vagelos Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA (United States)

2017-04-27

Organic azides that contain naphthyl functional groups were used to prepare uranium(V) imido complexes U{sup V}[=NC(2-naph)Ph{sub 2}][N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}]{sub 3} (2), U{sup V}[=NC(2-naph){sub 3}][N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}]{sub 3} (3), and U{sup V}[=N(2-naph)][N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}]{sub 3} (4), and their properties were compared with U{sup V}[=NCPh{sub 3}][N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}]{sub 3} (1). The electronic structures of these compounds were investigated by solution electrochemistry studies, which revealed accessible U{sup V/VI}, U{sup IV/V}, and naphthalene{sup 0}/naphthalene{sup -1} couples. The uranium(V) naphthylimido complexes were reduced by potassium graphite to yield their uranium(IV) congeners K[U{sup IV}[=NC(2-naph)Ph{sub 2}][N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}]{sub 3}] (2-K), K[U{sup IV}[=NC(2-naph){sub 3}][N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}]{sub 3}] (3-K), and K[U{sup IV}[=N(2-naph)][N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}]{sub 3}] (4-K). The electronic structure of the dianionic compounds were investigated by DFT calculations, and this revealed that the second reduction was ligand-based, which opens the possibility of accomplishing multi-electron redox chemistry by using a tailored multiply-bonded ligand. (copyright 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Synthesis and characterization of thorium(IV) and uranium(IV) complexes with Schiff bases

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Radoske, Thomas; Maerz, Juliane; Kaden, Peter; Patzschke, Michael; Ikeda-Ohno, Atsushi [Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf e.V., Dresden (Germany). Chemistry of the F-Elements

2017-06-01

We report herein the synthesis and characterization of several imine complexes of tetravalent thorium (Th(IV)) and uranium (U(IV)). The ligands investigated in this study are a Schiff base type, including the well-known salen ligand (H{sub 2}Le, Fig. 1). The complexation in solution was investigated by NMR measurements indicating paramagnetic effects of unpaired f-electrons of U(IV) on the ligand molecule. We also determined the solid-state molecular structures of the synthesized complexes by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The synthesized complexes show an eight-fold coordination geometry around the actinide center surrounded by two tetradentate ligands with 2N- and 2O-donor atoms.

Analytical method of uranium (IV) and uranium (VI) in uranium ores and uranium-bearing rocks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shen Zhuqin; Zheng Yongfeng; Li Qingzhen; Zhong Miaolan; Gu Dingxiang

1995-11-01

The best conditions for keeping the original valences of uranium during the dissolution and separation procedure of geological samples (especially those micro uranium-bearing rock) were studied. With the exist of high concentration protectants, the sample was decomposed with concentration HF at 40 +- 5 degree C. The U(VI) was dissolved completely and formed stable complex UO 2 F 2 , the U(IV) was precipitated rapidly and carried by carrier. Quantitative separation was carried out immediately with suction. The decomposition of sample and separation of solid/liquid phases was completed within two minutes. After separation, the U(IV) and U(VI) were determined quantitatively with laser fluorescence or voltametry respectively according to the uranium content. The limit of detection for this method is 0.7 μg/g, RSD is 10.5%, the determinate range of uranium is 2 x 10 -6 ∼10 -1 g/g. The uranium contents and their valence state ratio were measured for more than one hundred samples of sand stone and granite, the accuracy and precision of these results are satisfactory for uranium geological research. (12 tabs.; 11 refs.)

Extraction of uranium from simulated ore by the supercritical carbon dioxide fluid extraction method with nitric acid-TBP complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dung, Le Thi Kim; Imai, Tomoki; Tomioka, Osamu; Nakashima, Mikio; Takahashi, Kuniaki; Meguro, Yoshihiro

2006-01-01

The supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) method using CO 2 as a medium with an extractant of HNO 3 -tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) complex was applied to extract uranium from several uranyl phosphate compounds and simulated uranium ores. An extraction method consisting of a static extraction process and a dynamic one was established, and the effects of the experimental conditions, such as pressure, temperature, and extraction time, on the extraction of uranium were ascertained. It was found that uranium could be efficiently extracted from both the uranyl phosphates and simulated ores by the SFE method using CO 2 . It was thus demonstrated that the SFE method using CO 2 is useful as a pretreatment method for the analysis of uranium in ores. (author)

Uranium mill tailings neutralization: contaminant complexation and tailings leaching studies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Opitz, B.E.; Dodson, M.E.; Serne, R.J.

1985-05-01

Laboratory experiments were performed to compare the effectiveness of limestone (CaCO 3 ) and hydrated lime [Ca(OH) 2 ] for improving waste water quality through the neutralization of acidic uranium mill tailings liquor. The experiments were designed to also assess the effects of three proposed mechanisms - carbonate complexation, elevated pH, and colloidal particle adsorption - on the solubility of toxic contaminants found in a typical uranium mill waste solution. Of special interest were the effects each of these possible mechanisms had on the solution concentrations of trace metals such as Cd, Co, Mo, Zn, and U after neutralization. Results indicated that the neutralization of acidic tailings to a pH of 7.3 using hydrated lime provided the highest overall waste water quality. Both the presence of a carbonate source or elevating solution pH beyond pH = 7.3 resulted in a lowering of previously achieved water quality, while adsorption of contaminants onto colloidal particles was not found to affect the solution concentration of any constituent investigated. 24 refs., 8 figs., 19 tabs

Multisensor system for determination of iron(II), iron(III), uranium(VI) and uranium(IV) in complex solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Legin, A.V.; Seleznev, B.L.; Rudnitskaya, A.M.; Vlasov, Yu.G.; Tverdokhlebov, S.V.; Mack, B.; Abraham, A.; Arnold, T.; Baraniak, L.; Nitsche, H.

1999-01-01

Development and analytical evaluation of a multisensor system based on the principles of 'electronic tongue' for the determination of low contents of uranium(VI), uranium(IV), iron(II) and iron(III) in complex aqueous media have been carried out. A set of 29 different chemical sensors on the basis of all- solid-state crystalline and vitreous materials with enhanced electronic conductivity and redox and ionic cross-sensitivity have been incorporated into the sensor array. Multidimensional data have been processed by pattern recognition methods such as artificial neural networks and partial least squares. It has been demonstrated that Fe(II) and Fe(III) contents in the range from 10 -7 to 10 -4 mol L -1 of total iron concentration can be determined with the average precision of about 25 %. U(VI) and U(IV) contents can been determined with the average precision of 10-40% depending on the concentration. The developed multisensor system can be applied in future for the analysis of mining and borehole waters as well other contaminated natural media, including on-site measurements. (author)

Electrochemical investigation of uranium β-diketonates for all-uranium redox flow battery

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yamamura, Tomoo; Shiokawa, Yoshinobu; Yamana, Hajimu; Moriyama, Hirotake

2002-01-01

The redox flow battery using uranium as the negative and the positive active materials in polar aprotic solvents was proposed. In order to establish the guiding principle for the uranium compounds as the active materials, the investigation of uranium β-diketonate complexes was conducted on (i) the solubility of active materials, (ii) the electrode reaction of U(VI) and U(IV) β-diketonate complexes and (iii) the estimation of the open circuit voltage of the battery. The solubilities of higher than 0.8 mol dm -3 of U(VI) complexes and higher than 0.4 mol dm -3 of a U(IV) complex were obtained in the solvents. The electrode reactions of U(pta) 4 , UO 2 (dpm) 2 , UO 2 (fod) 2 and UO 2 (pta) 2 were first studied and the redox potentials of uranium β-diketonates were thermodynamically discussed. The open circuit voltage is estimated more than 1 V by using Hacac or Hdpm. The larger open circuit voltage is expected when a ligand with the larger basicity is used

The uranium in the environment; L'uranium dans l'environnement

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2001-07-01

The uranium is a natural element omnipresent in the environment, with a complex chemistry more and more understood. Many studies are always today devoted to this element to better improve the uranium behavior in the environment. To illustrate this knowledge and for the public information the CEA published this paper. It gathers in four chapters: historical aspects and properties of the uranium, the uranium in the environment and the impacts, the metrology of the uranium and its migration. (A.L.B.)

Complexation of vanadium with amidoxime and carboxyl groups. Uncovering the competitive role of vanadium in uranium extraction from seawater

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wang, Cong-Zhi; Wu, Qun-Yan; Lan, Jian-Hui; Shi, Wei-Qun [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing (China). Inst. of High Energy Physics; Chai, Zhi-Fang [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing (China). Inst. of High Energy Physics; Soochow Univ., Suzhou (China). School of Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X); Wu, Guo-Zhong [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai (China). Shanghai Inst. of Applied Physics

2017-09-01

At present, amidoxime-based adsorbents are considered to be the most promising materials for extraction of uranium from seawater. However, the high concentrations of transition metals especially vanadium strongly compete with uranium in the sequestration process, which is extremely limited the commercial use of amidoxime-based adsorbents. In this work, the coordination modes, bonding nature, and stabilities of possible vanadium(IV) (VO{sup 2+}) and (V) (VO{sub 2}{sup +}, VO{sup 3+}, V{sup 5+}) complexes with amidoximate (AO{sup -}), carboxyl (Ac{sup -}), glutarimidedioximate (HA{sup -}) and deprotonated glutarimidedioximate (A{sup 2-}) on single and double alkyl chains (R=C{sub 13}H{sub 26}) are systematically explored by quantum chemical calculations. Different from the uranyl (UO{sub 2}{sup 2+}) complexes, the AO{sup -} groups of the vanadium(IV) and (V) complexes prefer to coordinate as monodentate and chelate ligands, while few species with AO{sup -} groups in η{sup 2}-binding mode have been observed in the vanadium complexes. Besides, the vanadium complexes are predicted to have obvious covalent metal-ligand bonds. According to thermodynamic stability analysis, all the vanadium complexes with AO{sup -}, Ac{sup -}, HA{sup -} and A{sup 2-} ligands on double alkyl chains are found to be more stable than corresponding complexes with ligands on a single chain. The synergistic effect of the amidoxime and carboxyl groups can be observed in most of VO{sub 2}{sup +} and VO{sup 3+} complexes with mixed ligands (AO{sup -}/Ac{sup -}). The vanadium(IV) and (V) complexes are more stable than the corresponding uranyl complexes, and the adsorption capability of the amidoxime-based adsorbents toward vanadium(V) ions decrease in the order of VO{sub 2}{sup +}>VO{sup 3+}> V{sup 5+}. The dioxovanadium cation VO{sub 2}{sup +} is predicted to form multinuclear vanadium complex in the sequestration process, possibly resulting in higher stable VO{sub 2}{sup +} complexes. Therefore

Inherently safe in situ uranium recovery

Science.gov (United States)

Krumhansl, James L; Brady, Patrick V

2014-04-29

An in situ recovery of uranium operation involves circulating reactive fluids through an underground uranium deposit. These fluids contain chemicals that dissolve the uranium ore. Uranium is recovered from the fluids after they are pumped back to the surface. Chemicals used to accomplish this include complexing agents that are organic, readily degradable, and/or have a predictable lifetime in an aquifer. Efficiency is increased through development of organic agents targeted to complexing tetravalent uranium rather than hexavalent uranium. The operation provides for in situ immobilization of some oxy-anion pollutants under oxidizing conditions as well as reducing conditions. The operation also artificially reestablishes reducing conditions on the aquifer after uranium recovery is completed. With the ability to have the impacted aquifer reliably remediated, the uranium recovery operation can be considered inherently safe.

Steric control of redox events in organo-uranium chemistry: synthesis and characterisation of U(V) oxo and nitrido complexes

OpenAIRE

Tsoureas, Nikolaos; Kilpatrick, Alexander; Inman, Christopher; Cloke, Frederick Geoffrey

2016-01-01

The synthesis and molecular structures of a U(V) neutral terminal oxo complex and a U(V) sodium uranium nitride contact ion pair are described. The synthesis of the former is achieved by the use of tBuNCO as a mild oxygen transfer reagent, whilst that of the latter is via the reduction of NaN3. Both mono-uranium complexes are stabilised by the presence of bulky silyl substituents on the ligand framework that facilitate a 2e- oxidation of a single U(III) centre. In contrast, when steric hindra...

Zircon U-Pb geochronology and geochemistry of granites in the Zhuguangshan complex, South China: Implications for uranium mineralization

Science.gov (United States)

Zhang, Long; Chen, Zhenyu; Li, Xiaofeng; Li, Shengrong; Santosh, M.; Huang, Guolong

2018-05-01

The Zhuguangshan complex, composed of Caledonian, Indosinian, and Yanshanian granites, and Cretaceous mafic dykes, is one of the most important granite-hosted uranium producers in South China. Here we present LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb and hornblende 40Ar/39Ar geochronology and whole-rock and biotite geochemistry for the granites in this complex to evaluate the magmatism and its constraints on uranium mineralization. Samples collected from the Fuxi, Youdong, Longhuashan, Chikeng, Qiling, and Sanjiangkou intrusions yield zircon weighted 206Pb/238U ages of 426.7 ± 5.4 Ma, 226.4 ± 3.5 Ma, 225.0 ± 2.7 Ma, 152.2 ± 3.0 Ma, 153.9 ± 2.1 Ma, and 155.2 ± 2.1 Ma, respectively. A new Ar-Ar dating of the hornblende of the diabase from the Changjiang uranium ore field yields a plateau age of 145.1 ± 1.5 Ma. These results coupled with published geochronological data indicate that six major magmatic events occurred in the study area at 420-435 Ma, 225-240 Ma, 150-165 Ma, 140 Ma, 105 Ma, and 90 Ma. Both U-bearing and barren granites occur in this complex, and they display differences in whole-rock and biotite geochemistry. The barren granites show higher Al2O3, CaO, TFMM, Rb, Zr, Ba, SI, Mg#, (La/Yb)N, and Eu/Eu*, but lower SiO2, ALK, Rb, DI, Rb/Sr, and TiO2/MgO than those of the U-bearing granites. Biotites in the U-bearing granites are close to the Fe-rich siderophyllite-annite end member with Fe/(Fe + Mg) ratios higher than 0.66, whereas those in the barren granites are relatively close to the Mg-rich eastonite-phlogopite end member with Fe/(Fe + Mg) ratios uranium ore potential of the granites in the Zhuguangshan complex. The geochemical variations of U-bearing and barren granites can serve as a potential detector for granite-hosted uranium deposits.

Uranium mining

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lange, G.

1975-01-01

The winning of uranium ore is the first stage of the fuel cycle. The whole complex of questions to be considered when evaluating the profitability of an ore mine is shortly outlined, and the possible mining techniques are described. Some data on uranium mining in the western world are also given. (RB) [de

Uranium(iii) complexes supported by hydrobis(mercaptoimidazolyl)borates: synthesis and oxidation chemistry.

Science.gov (United States)

Maria, Leonor; Santos, Isabel C; Santos, Isabel

2018-05-23

The reaction of [UI3(thf)4] with the sodium or lithium salts of hydrobis(2-mercapto-1-methylimidazolyl)borate ligands ([H(R)B(timMe)2]-) in a 1 : 2 ratio, in tetrahydrofuran, gave the U(iii) complexes [UI{κ3-H,S,S'-H(R)B(timMe)2}2(thf)2] (R = H (1), Ph (2)) in good yields. Crystals of [UI{κ3-H,S,S'-H(Ph)B(timMe)2}2(thf)2] (2) were obtained by recrystallization from a tetrahydrofuran/acetonitrile solution, and the ion-separated uranium complex [U{κ3-H,S,S'-H(Ph)B(timMe)2}2(CH3CN)3][I] (3-I) was obtained by dissolution of 2 in acetonitrile followed by recrystallization. One-electron oxidation of 2 with AgBPh4 or I2 resulted in the formation of the cationic U(iv) complexes [U{κ3-H,S,S'-H(Ph)B(timMe)2}3][X] (X = BPh4 (6-BPh4), I (6-I)), due to a ligand redistribution process. These complexes are the first examples of homoleptic poly(azolyl)borate U(iv) complexes. Treatment of complex 2 with azobenzene led to the isolation of crystals of the U(iv) compound [UI{κ3-H(Ph)B(timMe)2}2(κ2-timMe)] (7). Treatment of 2 with pyridine-N oxide (pyNO) led to the formation of the uranyl complex [UO2{κ2-S,S'-H(Ph)B(timMe)2}2] (8) and of complex 6-I, while from the reaction of [U{κ3-H(Ph)B(timMe)2}2(thf)3][BPh4] (5) with pyNO, the oxo-bridged U(iv) complex [{U{κ3-H(Ph)B(timMe)2}2(pyNO)}2(μ-O)][BPh4]2 (9) was also obtained. In the U(iii) and U(iv) complexes, the bis(azolyl)borate ligands bind to the uranium center in a κ3-H,S,S' coordination mode, while in the U(vi) complex the ligands bind to the metal in a κ2-S,S' mode. The presence of UH-B interactions in the solid-state, for the nine-coordinate complexes 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7 and for the eight-coordinate complex 9, was supported by IR spectroscopy and/or X-ray diffraction analysis.

Effect of pH and uranium concentration on interaction of uranium(VI) and uranium(IV) with organic ligands in aqueous solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Li, W.C.; Victor, D.M.; Chakrabarti, C.L.

1980-01-01

The effect of pH and uranium concentration on the interactions of uranium(VI) and uranium(IV) with organic ligands was studied by employing dialysis and ultrafiltration techniques. The interactions of U(VI) and U(IV) with organic ligands in nitrate or chloride aqueous solution have been found to be pH-dependent. The stability constants of uranium-organic complexes decrease in the order: fulvic acid>humic acid>tannic acid for U(VI) and humic acid>tannic acid>fulvic acid for U(IV). Scatchard plots for the uranium-organic acid systems indicate two types of binding sites with a difference in stability constants of about 10 2 . Ultrafiltration of uranium-humic acid complexes indicates that U(VI) and U(IV) ions are concentrated in larger molecular size fractions (>5.1 nm) at pH less than or equal to 3 and in smaller molecular size fractions (in the range 5.1 to 3.1 nm and 2.4 to 1.9 nm) at pH greater than or equal to 5. 7 figures, 4 tables

Extraction of uranium and lead from mixed waste debris using a variety of metal/ligand complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Needham, D.A.; Duran, B.L.; Ehler, D.S.; Sauer, N.N.

1997-01-01

To ensure the safety of our Nation's nuclear stockpile, Los Alamos National Laboratory is in the process of constructing the DARHT (Dual Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test) facility. DARHT will examine the effects of aging and the stability of our stockpile. Contained testing will be phased in to reduce the impact of these tests, which contain depleted uranium, on our environment. The main focus of this research is to develop a treatment scheme for the recovery of depleted uranium and lead from shot debris that will result from these tests. The goals of this research are to optimize the conditions on a bench scale using a commercially available water soluble polymer to bind the lead and a variety of metal/ligand complexes such as 4,5-dihydroxy-1,3-benzene-disulfonic acid, dithionite, sodium carbonate/bicarbonate, and sodium hypochlorite to bind the uranium. Studies were conducted on a mixture of debris, such as wood, cable, paper towels, and tubing that contained both uranium and lead ranging in concentration from 10-1000's of ppm of contaminants. Experiments were done varying combinations and successions of extractant solutions as well as a number of sequential extractions. Studies show that a mixture of sodium hypochlorite and carbonate removed 90+% of both uranium and lead. We then focused on a separation scheme for the lead and uranium

Uranium leaching analysis (IAEA method) and total uranium determination in caldasite by the fluorometric method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sardela, I.A.; Fujimori, K.

1980-10-01

Caldasite is a radioactive mineral known mostly for its high radioactive content (U and Th). It is found only at the Pocos de Caldas Alkaline Complex, States of Minas Gerais. Samples colected at Campos do Serrote, Taquari and Brigrada located in the alkaline complex were submitted to the fluorometric method of uranium analysis. The results show a good precision and close agreement with those obtained with gamma ray spectroscopy. IAEA uranium leaching analysis has also been applied to this mineral, but only 0,4% of the total content was dissolved. The uranium leaching was more intense on the samples that have smaller equivalent uranium than total uranium and it may be attributed to a higher range Rn gas escape from this mineral. (Author) [pt

Complexes carbéniques nucléophiles de l'uranium

OpenAIRE

Tourneux , Jean-Christophe

2012-01-01

The only stable f-metal carbene complexes (excluding NHC) metals f present R2C(2-) groups having one or two phosphorus atoms in the central carbon in alpha position. The objective of this work was to develop the chemistry of carbenes for uranium (metal 5f) with the dianion C{Ph2P(=S)}2(2-) (SCS(2-)) to extend the organometallic chemistry of this element in its various oxidation states (+3-6), and to reveal the influence of the 5f orbitals on the nature and reactivity of the double bond C=U.We...

A coupled mass transfer and surface complexation model for uranium (VI) removal from wastewaters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lenhart, J.; Figueroa, L.A.; Honeyman, B.D.

1994-01-01

A remediation technique has been developed for removing uranium (VI) from complex contaminated groundwater using flake chitin as a biosorbent in batch and continuous flow configurations. With this system, U(VI) removal efficiency can be predicted using a model that integrates surface complexation models, mass transport limitations and sorption kinetics. This integration allows the reactor model to predict removal efficiencies for complex groundwaters with variable U(VI) concentrations and other constituents. The system has been validated using laboratory-derived kinetic data in batch and CSTR systems to verify the model predictions of U(VI) uptake from simulated contaminated groundwater

Investigation and analytical application of thorium and uranium complexes with amino acids

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Korenman, I.M.; Sergeev, G.M.

1979-01-01

The coordination is investigated of thorium (4) and uranium (6) with aminoacids, particularly, with aspartic acid. With the latter the metals form chelates, which have a particular structure and a stationary inner sphere. A description is made of the composition, conditions of formation (gr H), and a stability of some asparaginate complexes of actinoids, the coordination methods of aspartic acid. An asparaginatometric method is proposed for a direct complexometric titration of microgram amounts of thorium in the presence of uranium, zirconium and rare earth elements with photometric indication. As metal-chromic indicators the sulfophthaleins are applied. The given procedure allows measurement of impurities of accompanying elements, viz., beryllium (up to 1%) in thorium preparations. Application of aspartic acid and arsenazo 1 indicator permits us to define Be(2) with a relative error not higher than 5% in thorium compounds, which exclude the analysis by other methods

Sorption of uranium (VI) on homoionic sodium smectite experimental study and surface complexation modeling.

Science.gov (United States)

Korichi, Smain; Bensmaili, Aicha

2009-09-30

This paper is an extension of a previous paper where the natural and purified clay in the homoionic Na form were physico-chemically characterized (doi:10.1016/j.clay.2008.04.014). In this study, the adsorption behavior of U (VI) on a purified Na-smectite suspension is studied using batch adsorption experiments and surface complexation modeling (double layer model). The sorption of uranium was investigated as a function of pH, uranium concentration, solid to liquid ratio, effect of natural organic matter (NOM) and NaNO(3) background electrolyte concentration. Using the MINTEQA2 program, the speciation of uranium was calculated as a function of pH and uranium concentration. Model predicted U (VI) aqueous speciation suggests that important aqueous species in the [U (VI)]=1mg/L and pH range 3-7 including UO(2)(2+), UO(2)OH(+), and (UO(2))(3)(OH)(5)(+). The concentration of UO(2)(2+) decreased and that of (UO(2))(3)(OH)(5)(+) increased with increasing pH. The potentiometric titration values and uptake of uranium in the sodium smectite suspension were simulated by FITEQL 4.0 program using a two sites model, which is composed of silicate and aluminum reaction sites. We compare the acidity constants values obtained by potentiometric titration from the purified sodium smectite with those obtained from single oxides (quartz and alpha-alumina), taking into account the surface heterogeneity and the complex nature of natural colloids. We investigate the uranium sorption onto purified Na-smectite assuming low, intermediate and high edge site surfaces which are estimated from specific surface area percentage. The sorption data is interpreted and modeled as a function of edge site surfaces. A relationship between uranium sorption and total site concentration was confirmed and explained through variation in estimated edge site surface value. The modeling study shows that, the convergence during DLM modeling is related to the best estimation of the edge site surface from the N(2

Exploration of Bernabe Montano complex of uranium deposits, New Mexico, USA

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Porter, D.A.

1981-01-01

The Bernabe Montano discovery is a significant eastern extension of the Grants Mineral Belt, consisting of two nearly parallel mineralized trends with a combined strike length of about 14.5 km. One deposit with approximately 10 6 lb of uranium oxide has been blocked out and several km of mineralized trend require additional delineation drilling. The mineralization exhibits many similarities to Westwater Canyon Member ore deposits in other parts of the Grants Mineral Belt; one of the most significant is the continuation of the south-easterly trend that has persisted, with some breaks, for a length of over 175 km. As with other Grants Mineral Belt deposits, the mineralization is associated with multilevel humate masses that are roughly parallel to the bedding of the Westwater Canyon Member host sandstone beds. These humate masses and the associated uranium deposits show a marked preference for the margins of the thicker, more laterally continuous, channelways. The discovery of the Bernabe Montano complex of deposits is significant for several reasons. First, it opened up exploration in the distal fan facies where many geologists thought the uranium potential was relatively low. The discovery is potentially more significant in that it demonstrates the ability of detailed subsurface geologic mapping to suggest the location of high potential geologic trends in partially explored but favourable regions where the more traditional surface geologic and radiometric techniques are no longer effective in finding new deposits. (author)

Cation-mediated conversion of the state of charge in uranium arene inverted-sandwich complexes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Camp, Clement; Mougel, Victor; Pecaut, Jacques; Mazzanti, Marinella [Laboratoire de Reconnaissance Ionique et Chimie de Coordination, SCIB, UMR-E3 CEA-UJF, INAC, CEA-Grenoble (France); Maron, Laurent [LCPNO, CNRS and INSA, UPS, Universite de Toulouse (France)

2013-12-16

Two new arene inverted-sandwich complexes of uranium supported by siloxide ancillary ligands [K{U(OSi(OtBu)_3)_3}{sub 2}(μ-η{sup 6}:η{sup 6}-C{sub 7}H{sub 8})] (3) and [K{sub 2}{U(OSi(OtBu)_3)_3}{sub 2}(μ-η{sup 6}:η{sup 6}-C{sub 7}H{sub 8})] (4) were synthesized by the reduction of the parent arene-bridged complex [{U(OSi(OtBu)_3)_3}{sub 2}(μ-η{sup 6}:η{sup 6}-C{sub 7}H{sub 8})] (2) with stoichiometric amounts of KC{sub 8} yielding a rare family of inverted-sandwich complexes in three states of charge. The structural data and computational studies of the electronic structure are in agreement with the presence of high-valent uranium centers bridged by a reduced tetra-anionic toluene with the best formulation being U{sup V}-(arene{sup 4-})-U{sup V}, KU{sup IV}-(arene{sup 4-})-U{sup V}, and K{sub 2}U{sup IV}-(arene{sup 4-})-U{sup IV} for complexes 2, 3, and 4 respectively. The potassium cations in complexes 3 and 4 are coordinated to the siloxide ligands both in the solid state and in solution. The addition of KOTf (OTf=triflate) to the neutral compound 2 promotes its disproportionation to yield complexes 3 and 4 (depending on the stoichiometry) and the U{sup IV} mononuclear complex [U(OSi(OtBu){sub 3}){sub 3}(OTf)(thf){sub 2}] (5). This unprecedented reactivity demonstrates the key role of potassium for the stability of these complexes. (Copyright copyright 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Estimation of rare earth elements in uranium matrix after solvent extraction of uranium as uranium-antipyrine-anion complex using chloroform as solvent

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bose, Roopa; Murthy, D.S.R.; Malhotra, R.K.

1999-01-01

The neutron economy in a nuclear reactor dictates the occurrence of neutron absorbers at very low levels. Hence the determination of lanthanides especially Sm, Eu, Gd and Dy is one of the most difficult and complicated analytical tasks particularly in high uranium matrix. Solvent extraction is a potent and versatile technique for the separation of lanthanides. The systems generally used for lanthanide extraction are TBP-nitrate, TBP-chloride, TBP-thiocyanate TOPO, DEHPA-nitrate etc. However, these methods of extraction of lanthanides fail to give a clear cut separation for their determination from uranium matrix. Hence analytical procedures have been standardised for extraction of uranium matrix into the organic phase leaving lanthanides unextracted in the aqueous phase. In this direction Cyanex-923 a mixture of 4 trialkyl phosphine oxides, TBP- TOPO and trioctylamine in xylene have been used for extraction of uranium and consequent determination of lanthanides by ICP-AES in the aqueous phase. In this paper the authors have investigated uranium -antipyrine -anion, a different combination other than the well known phosphine oxides and tertiary amines for extraction of uranium

Redox reactivity and coordination chemistry of uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nocton, G.

2009-09-01

The study and the understanding of actinides chemistry have important implications in the nuclear field both for the development of new actinides materials and the retreatment of the nuclear wastes. One of the major issues in that chemistry is that the actinides elements are known to undergo redox reaction and to form assemblies of different size and different topologies. In that context uranium can be a good model of the heavier radioelement because it is much less radioactive. So, this work concerns the synthesis and the study of the spectroscopy and the magnetic properties of several uranium based polymetallic assemblies synthesized by taking advantage of the redox properties and the coordination chemistry of uranium. The hydrolysis reactivity of trivalent uranium has been studied in absence of sterically hindered ligands and led to the synthesis of oxo/hydroxo uranium assemblies with different sizes by changing the starting complex or the reaction conditions. By following the same strategy, the controlled oxidation of trivalent uranium complexes led to an original azido/nitrido uranium complex. The coordination chemistry of the pentavalent uranyl polymer {[UO 2 py 5 ][KI 2 py 3 ]} n has also been studied with different ligand and in different conditions and led to several cation-cation complexes for which the stability is sufficient for studying there dismutation by proton NMR. By changing the ancillary ligands stable monomeric complexes of pentavalent uranyl complexes were also obtained. The magnetic properties of all the complexes, monomers and polymetallic complexes were studied and an antiferromagnetic coupling was observed for the cation-cation pentavalent uranyl dimer [UO 2 (dbm) 2 (K 18 C 6 )] 2 . (author)

Uranium speciation in plants

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guenther, A.; Bernhard, G.; Geipel, G.; Reich, T.; Rossberg, A.; Nitsche, H.

2003-01-01

Detailed knowledge of the nature of uranium complexes formed after the uptake by plants is an essential prerequisite to describe the migration behavior of uranium in the environment. This study focuses on the determination of uranium speciation after uptake of uranium by lupine plants. For the first time, time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy and X-ray absorption spectroscopy were used to determine the chemical speciation of uranium in plants. Differences were detected between the uranium speciation in the initial solution (hydroponic solution and pore water of soil) and inside the lupine plants. The oxidation state of uranium did not change and remained hexavalent after it was taken up by the lupine plants. The chemical speciation of uranium was identical in the roots, shoot axis, and leaves and was independent of the uranium speciation in the uptake solution. The results indicate that the uranium is predominantly bound as uranyl(VI) phosphate to the phosphoryl groups. Dandelions and lamb's lettuce showed uranium speciation identical to lupine plants. (orig.)

Mixed complexes of uranium(IV) and thorium(IV) with N,N'-ethylenebis(salicylideneimine) and N,N'-propylenebis(salicylideneimine)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Doretti, L; Madalosso, F; Sitran, S; Faleschini, S [Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Padua (Italy). Lab. di Chimica e Tecnologia dei Radioelementi

1976-01-01

Recently some uranium tetrachloride adducts with N-(hydroxyphenyl)-salicylaldimine and N-(methoxyphenyl)salicylaldimine have been prepared (Doretti et al., J. Inorg. Nucl. Chem., (in press)): the study has now extended to the complexes of Uranium(IV) and Thorium(IV) with N,N'-Ethylenebis(salicylideneimine), H/sub 2/salen, and N,N'-Propylenebis(salicylideneimine), H/sub 2/salpropen, with the aim to prepare fully substituted complexes, mixed complexes containing both chloride and Schiff base groups and adducts of tetrachlorides with free Schiff bases. This paper reports the preparation and properties of the compounds MCl/sub 4/(H/sub 2/salen), MCl/sub 4/(H/sub 2/salpropen), M(salen)Cl/sub 2/, M(salen)/sub 2/ and M(salpropen)/sub 2/, where M = U or Th. These compounds have been characterized by elemental analyses and their IR spectra are reported and discussed.

Uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Poty, B.; Cuney, M.; Bruneton, P.; Virlogeux, D.; Capus, G.

2010-01-01

concentration in peat bogs, deposits combined with marine phosphates, with coal and lignite, with black shales, with carbonate rocks, deposits in Precambrian quartz pebble conglomerates, basal-type deposits, deposits in sandstones (tabular, roll-type and tectono-lithologic deposits), breccia chimney filling deposits, deposits in metamorphic rocks, metasomatic deposits, deposits in intrusive rocks, deposits associated with hematite breccia complexes, deposits in granitic rocks, deposits in volcanic rocks, deposits in proterozoic discordances (Athabasca basin, Pine Creek geo-syncline); 4 - French uranium bearing areas and deposits: history of the French uranium mining industry, geological characteristics of French deposits (black shales, sandstones, granites), abroad success of French mining companies (Africa, North America, South America, Australia, Asia); 5 - exploration and exploitation; 6 - uranium economy: perspectives of uranium demand, present day production status, secondary resources, possible resources, market balances, prices and trends, future availability and nuclear perspectives. (J.S.)

Uranium chemistry: significant advances

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mazzanti, M.

2011-01-01

The author reviews recent progress in uranium chemistry achieved in CEA laboratories. Like its neighbors in the Mendeleev chart uranium undergoes hydrolysis, oxidation and disproportionation reactions which make the chemistry of these species in water highly complex. The study of the chemistry of uranium in an anhydrous medium has led to correlate the structural and electronic differences observed in the interaction of uranium(III) and the lanthanides(III) with nitrogen or sulfur molecules and the effectiveness of these molecules in An(III)/Ln(III) separation via liquid-liquid extraction. Recent work on the redox reactivity of trivalent uranium U(III) in an organic medium with molecules such as water or an azide ion (N 3 - ) in stoichiometric quantities, led to extremely interesting uranium aggregates particular those involved in actinide migration in the environment or in aggregation problems in the fuel processing cycle. Another significant advance was the discovery of a compound containing the uranyl ion with a degree of oxidation (V) UO 2 + , obtained by oxidation of uranium(III). Recently chemists have succeeded in blocking the disproportionation reaction of uranyl(V) and in stabilizing polymetallic complexes of uranyl(V), opening the way to to a systematic study of the reactivity and the electronic and magnetic properties of uranyl(V) compounds. (A.C.)

Uranium extraction from underground deposits

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wolfe, C.R.

1982-01-01

Uranium is extracted from underground deposits by passing an aqueous oxidizing solution of carbon dioxide over the ore in the presence of calcium ions. Complex uranium carbonate or bicarbonate ions are formed which enter the solution. The solution is forced to the surface and the uranium removed from it

Reversible dihydrogen activation and hydride transfer by a uranium nitride complex

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Falcone, Marta; Poon, Lok Nga; Fadaei Tirani, Farzaneh; Mazzanti, Marinella [Institut des Sciences et Ingenierie Chimiques, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne (Switzerland)

2018-03-26

Cleavage of dihydrogen is an important step in the industrial and enzymatic transformation of N{sub 2} into ammonia. The reversible cleavage of dihydrogen was achieved under mild conditions (room temperature and 1 atmosphere of H{sub 2}) by the molecular uranium nitride complex, [Cs{U(OSi(O"tBu)_3)_3}{sub 2}(μ-N)], leading to a rare hydride-imide bridged diuranium(IV) complex, [Cs{U(OSi(O"tBu)_3)_3}{sub 2}(μ-H)(μ-NH)], that slowly releases H{sub 2} under vacuum. This complex is highly reactive and quickly transfers hydride to acetonitrile and carbon dioxide at room temperature, affording the ketimide- and formate-bridged U{sup IV} species [Cs{U(OSi(O"tBu)_3)_3}{sub 2}(μ-NH)(μ-CH{sub 3}CHN)] and [Cs{U(OSi(O"tBu)_3)_3}{sub 2}(μ-HCOO)(μ-NHCOO)]. (copyright 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Evaluation of the uranium potential of the Bushveld Complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cheney, E.S.

1986-04-01

The poor quality of the airborne radiometric surveys and the lack of exploration geochemical data in the public domain prevent a satisfactory assessment of the uranium potential of the Bushveld area. Undue reliance must be placed upon fitting models of uranium ore deposits to the geology of the Bushveld area. Although the Bushveld granites have an unusually high background of uranium (20 to 40 ppm), they probably only host small vein-type deposits. The vein at the Albert Silver mine should be investigated as a type example to determine if it is only economic in the narrow interval of supergene enrichment. The Rooiberg Group has considerable potential for caldera-related deposits and for uranium-bearing sulphide deposits (including Olympic Dam-type deposits) in sedimentary interbeds. The Loskop Formation appears to be correlative with the Glentig and lower Swaershoek Formations of the Waterberg area. The Waterberg Group is the logical host to investigate for giant uncomformity/vein-type uranium deposits like those in Canada and Australia. Because the Waterberg consists of four uncomformity-bounded sequences, it is rarely more than 3 km thick; all of the sequences could be younger than 1770 Ma

Solvothermal synthesis of uranium(VI) phases with aromatic carboxylate ligands: A dinuclear complex with 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and a 3D framework with terephthalic acid

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zhang, Yingjie, E-mail: yzx@ansto.gov.au [Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232 (Australia); Karatchevtseva, Inna [Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232 (Australia); Bhadbhade, Mohan [Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052 (Australia); Tran, Toan Trong; Aharonovich, Igor [School of Physics and Advanced Materials, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007 (Australia); Fanna, Daniel J.; Shepherd, Nicholas D. [School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751 (Australia); Lu, Kim [Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232 (Australia); Li, Feng [School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751 (Australia); Lumpkin, Gregory R. [Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232 (Australia)

2016-02-15

With the coordination of dimethylformamide (DMF), two new uranium(VI) complexes with either 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (H{sub 2}phb) or terephthalic acid (H{sub 2}tph) have been synthesized under solvothermal conditions and structurally characterized. [(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(Hphb){sub 2}(phb)(DMF)(H{sub 2}O){sub 3}]·4H{sub 2}O (1) has a dinuclear structure constructed with both pentagonal and hexagonal bipyramidal uranium polyhedra linked through a µ{sub 2}-bridging ligand via both chelating carboxylate arm and alcohol oxygen bonding, first observation of such a coordination mode of 4-hydroxybenzoate for 5 f ions. [(UO{sub 2})(tph)(DMF)] (2) has a three-dimensional (3D) framework built with pentagonal bipyramidal uranium polyhedra linked with µ{sub 4}-terephthalate ligands. The 3D channeled structure is facilitated by the unique carboxylate bonding with nearly linear C–O–U angles and the coordination of DMF molecules. The presence of phb ligands in different coordination modes, uranyl ions in diverse environments and DMF in complex 1, and tph ligand, DMF and uranyl ion in complex 2 has been confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. In addition, their thermal stability and photoluminescence properties have been investigated. - Graphical abstract: With the coordination of dimethylformamide, two new uranyl complexes with either 4-hydroxybenzoate or terephthalate have been synthesized under solvothermal conditions and structurally characterized. - Highlights: • Solvent facilitates the synthesis of two new uranium(VI) complexes. • A dinuclear complex with both penta- and hexagonal bipyramidal uranium polyhedral. • A unique µ{sub 2}-bridging mode of 4-hydroxybenzoate via alcohol oxygen for 5 f ions. • A 3D framework with uranium polyhedra and µ{sub 4}-terephthalate ligands. • Vibration modes and photoluminescence properties are reported.

New french uranium mineral species

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Branche, G.; Chervet, J.; Guillemin, C.

1952-01-01

In this work, the authors study the french new uranium minerals: parsonsite and renardite, hydrated phosphates of lead and uranium; kasolite: silicate hydrated of uranium and lead uranopilite: sulphate of uranium hydrated; bayleyite: carbonate of uranium and of hydrated magnesium; β uranolite: silicate of uranium and of calcium hydrated. For all these minerals, the authors give the crystallographic, optic characters, and the quantitative chemical analyses. On the other hand, the following species, very rare in the french lodgings, didn't permit to do quantitative analyses. These are: the lanthinite: hydrated uranate oxide; the α uranotile: silicate of uranium and of calcium hydrated; the bassetite: uranium phosphate and of hydrated iron; the hosphuranylite: hydrated uranium phosphate; the becquerelite: hydrated uranium oxide; the curite: oxide of uranium and lead hydrated. Finally, the authors present at the end of this survey a primary mineral: the brannerite, complex of uranium titanate. (author) [fr

Analysis on uranium metallogenetic conditions of granite pluton in Ulan Uzhur

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lu Yaozu

2014-01-01

Qimantage area in Qinghai province is one of the important exploration areas in the present China, Ulan Uzhur complex pluton, located in the compound tectonic magmatic belt of Qimantage, is the main cluster area with uranium mineralization. This paper describes the petrochemical, geochemical, petrophysical and Heishan uranium deposit mineralization characteristics of rocks formed at the different tectonic-magmatic cycles in Ulan Uzhur complex pluton. Uranium metallogenic conditions in Ulan Uzhur complex pluton were analyzed from uranium source, magmatic activity and structure. The research shew that the Ulan Uzhur complex pluton has the petrochemical characteristics of uranium rock and Cisuralian monzonitic granite has the most significant relationship to uranium mineralization, it has the characteristics of high background radiation, many anomalies and pronounced ore-control structure, Heishan uranium deposit was controlled by factors such as pronounced northeast and the northwest structure and alteration. To conclude, Ulan Uzhur complex pluton possesses good uranium metallogenic prospect. (author)

Geochemistry of the uranium mineralized Achala granitic complex, Argentina: Comparison with Hercynian peraluminous leucogranites of western Europe

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cuney, M.; Leroy, J.; Valdiviezo, P.A.; Daziano, C.; Gamba, M.; Zarco, A.J.; Morello, O.; Ninci, C.; Molina, P.

1989-01-01

The Achala granitic complex belongs to the Sierras Pampeanas Hercynian belt, located west of the city of Cordoba, Argentina. This complex is very large (about 100 km N-S and 40 km E-W) and is composed of biotite, biotite with muscovite and muscovite with tourmaline granites intruded in amphibolite grade metamorphic rocks, along a main N 20 deg. E structural direction. Numerous uranium mineralizations are located within the granitic massif and tungsten mineralizations are present both in the enclosing metamorphic rocks and in the granite. The geochemistry of the granite has been studied in four test areas (Southern, Copina, Median and Don Vincente). Two test areas (Median and Don Vicente) present clear evidence of hydrothermal alteration: albitization and dequartzification similar to the French 'episyenites', silicification and argillic alteration. Potassic alteration is rare and weakly developed. The two test areas with hydrothermal alteration present a high uranium geochemical background (5-30 ppm). High thorium contents (up to 65 ppm) are essentially observed in the less differentiated granites of the Copina and Median areas. Thorium/uranium ratios are highly variable (1-10). Uranium minerals are related to different environments - (1) apatite-biotite enclave mineralized with uraninite and uranothorite, (2) gneiss from the contact metamorphism rim, (3) granite with incipient dequartzification, (4) granite associated with albitic episyenites and (5) silicified granite - but are all located in the two test areas presenting clear evidence of hydrothermal alteration. The three petrogenetic events are clearly related to very different mechanisms, separated from each other by several tens of millions of years in the west European Hercynian chain. In the same period the same succession of events leading to uranium deposits is observed in Argentina. 34 refs, 10 figs, 1 tab

Uranium removal from soils: An overview from the Uranium in Soils Integrated Demonstration program

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Francis, C.W.; Brainard, J.R.; York, D.A.; Chaiko, D.J.; Matthern, G.

1994-01-01

An integrated approach to remove uranium from uranium-contaminated soils is being conducted by four of the US Department of Energy national laboratories. In this approach, managed through the Uranium in Soils Integrated Demonstration program at the Fernald Environmental Management Project, Fernald, Ohio, these laboratories are developing processes that selectively remove uranium from soil without seriously degrading the soil's physicochemical characteristics or generating waste that is difficult to manage or dispose of. These processes include traditional uranium extractions that use carbonate as well as some nontraditional extraction techniques that use citric acid and complex organic chelating agents such as naturally occurring microbial siderophores. A bench-scale engineering design for heap leaching; a process that uses carbonate leaching media shows that >90% of the uranium can be removed from the Fernald soils. Other work involves amending soils with cultures of sulfur and ferrous oxidizing microbes or cultures of fungi whose role is to generate mycorrhiza that excrete strong complexers for uranium. Aqueous biphasic extraction, a physical separation technology, is also being evaluated because of its ability to segregate fine particulate, a fundamental requirement for soils containing high levels of silt and clay. Interactions among participating scientists have produced some significant progress not only in evaluating the feasibility of uranium removal but also in understanding some important technical aspects of the task

Solubility measurement of uranium in uranium-contaminated soils

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lee, S.Y.; Elless, M.; Hoffman, F.

1993-08-01

A short-term equilibration study involving two uranium-contaminated soils at the Fernald site was conducted as part of the In Situ Remediation Integrated Program. The goal of this study is to predict the behavior of uranium during on-site remediation of these soils. Geochemical modeling was performed on the aqueous species dissolved from these soils following the equilibration study to predict the on-site uranium leaching and transport processes. The soluble levels of total uranium, calcium, magnesium, and carbonate increased continually for the first four weeks. After the first four weeks, these components either reached a steady-state equilibrium or continued linearity throughout the study. Aluminum, potassium, and iron, reached a steady-state concentration within three days. Silica levels approximated the predicted solubility of quartz throughout the study. A much higher level of dissolved uranium was observed in the soil contaminated from spillage of uranium-laden solvents and process effluents than in the soil contaminated from settling of airborne uranium particles ejected from the nearby incinerator. The high levels observed for soluble calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate are probably the result of magnesium and/or calcium carbonate minerals dissolving in these soils. Geochemical modeling confirms that the uranyl-carbonate complexes are the most stable and dominant in these solutions. The use of carbonate minerals on these soils for erosion control and road construction activities contributes to the leaching of uranium from contaminated soil particles. Dissolved carbonates promote uranium solubility, forming highly mobile anionic species. Mobile uranium species are contaminating the groundwater underlying these soils. The development of a site-specific remediation technology is urgently needed for the FEMP site

Uranium-mediated electrocatalytic dihydrogen production from water

Science.gov (United States)

Halter, Dominik P.; Heinemann, Frank W.; Bachmann, Julien; Meyer, Karsten

2016-02-01

Depleted uranium is a mildly radioactive waste product that is stockpiled worldwide. The chemical reactivity of uranium complexes is well documented, including the stoichiometric activation of small molecules of biological and industrial interest such as H2O, CO2, CO, or N2 (refs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11), but catalytic transformations with actinides remain underexplored in comparison to transition-metal catalysis. For reduction of water to H2, complexes of low-valent uranium show the highest potential, but are known to react violently and uncontrollably forming stable bridging oxo or uranyl species. As a result, only a few oxidations of uranium with water have been reported so far; all stoichiometric. Catalytic H2 production, however, requires the reductive recovery of the catalyst via a challenging cleavage of the uranium-bound oxygen-containing ligand. Here we report the electrocatalytic water reduction observed with a trisaryloxide U(III) complex [((Ad,MeArO)3mes)U] (refs 18 and 19)—the first homogeneous uranium catalyst for H2 production from H2O. The catalytic cycle involves rare terminal U(IV)-OH and U(V)=O complexes, which have been isolated, characterized, and proven to be integral parts of the catalytic mechanism. The recognition of uranium compounds as potentially useful catalysts suggests new applications for such light actinides. The development of uranium-based catalysts provides new perspectives on nuclear waste management strategies, by suggesting that mildly radioactive depleted uranium—an abundant waste product of the nuclear power industry—could be a valuable resource.

Synthesis, characterization, thermogravimetry, and structural study of uranium complexes derived from dibasic S-alkylated thiosemicarbazone ligands

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Fasihizad, A.; Barak, T.; Ahmadi, M.; Dušek, Michal; Pojarová, Michaela

2014-01-01

Roč. 67, č. 12 (2014), s. 2160-2170 ISSN 0095-8972 R&D Projects: GA ČR(CZ) GA14-03276S Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : uranium complex * isothiosemicarbazone * crystallography * spectra * thermal stability Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 2.012, year: 2014

Uranium(VI) transport modeling: geochemical data and submodels

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tripathi, V.S.

1984-01-01

Understanding the geochemical mobility of U(VI) and modeling its transport is important in several contexts including ore genesis, uranium exploration, nuclear and mill-tailings waste management, and solution mining of uranium ores. Adsorption is a major control on partitioning of solutes at the mineral/solution interface. The effect of carbonate, fluoride, and phosphate complexing on adsorption of uranium was investigated. A critical compilation of stability constants of inorganic complexes and solid compounds of U(VI) necessary for proper design of experiment and for modeling transport of uranium was prepared. The general features of U(VI) adsorption in ligand-free systems are similar to those characteristic of other hydrolyzable metal ions. The adsorption processes studied were found to be reversible. The adsorption model developed in ligand-free systems, when solution complexing is taken into account, proved remarkably successful in describing adsorption of uranium in the presence of carbonate and fluoride. The presence of phosphate caused a much smaller decrease in the extent of adsorption than expected; however, a critical reassessment of the stability of UO 2 2+ .HPO 4 2- complexes, showed that phosphato complexes, if any, are extremely weak under experimental conditions. Removal of uranium may have occurred due to precipitation of sodium uranyl phosphates in addition to adsorption

Radiological and environmental safety aspects of uranium fuel fabrication plants at Nuclear Fuel Complex, Hyderabad

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Viswanathan, S.; Surya Rao, B.; Lakshmanan, A.R.; Krishna Rao, T.

1991-01-01

Nuclear Fuel Complex, Hyderabad manufactures uranium dioxide fuel assemblies for PHWRs and BWRs operating in India. Starting materials are magnesium diuranate received from UCIL, Jaduguda and imported UF. Both of these are converted to UO 2 pellets by identical chemical processes and mechanical compacting. Since the uranium handled here is free of daughter product activities, external radiation is not a problem. Inhalation of airborne U compounds is one of the main source of exposure. Engineered protective measures like enclosures around U bearing powder handling equipment and local exhausts reduce worker's exposure. Installation of pre-filters, wet rotoclones and electrostatic precipitators in the ventillation system reduces the release of U into the environment. The criticality hazard in handling slightly enriched uranium is very low due to the built-in control based on geometry and inventory. Where airborne uranium is significant, workers are provided with protective respirators. The workers are regularly monitored for external exposure and also for internal exposure. The environmental releases from the NFC facility is well controlled. Soil, water and air from the NFC environment are routinely collected and analysed for all the possible pollutants. The paper describes the Health Physics experience during the last five years on occupational exposures and on environmental surveillance which reveals the high quality of safety observed in our nuclear fuel fabricating installations. (author). 4 refs., 6 tabs

Elucidating Bioreductive Transformations within Physically Complex Media: Impact on the Fate and Transport of Uranium and Chromium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fendorf, Scott; Francis, Chris; Jardine, Phil; Benner, Shawn

2009-01-01

In situ stabilization (inclusive of natural attenuation) of toxic metals and radionuclides is an attractive approach for remediating many contaminated DOE sites. By immobilizing toxic metals and radionuclides in place, the removal of contaminated water to the surface for treatment as well as the associated disposal costs are avoided. To enhance in situ remediaton, microbiological reductive stabilization of contaminant metals has been, and continues to be, actively explored. It is likely that surface and subsurface microbial activity can alter the redox state of toxic metals and radionuclides, either directly or indirectly, so they are rendered immobile. Furthermore, anaerobic bacterial metabolic products will help to buffer pulses of oxidation, typically from fluxes of nitrate or molecular oxygen, and thus may stabilize reduced contaminants from oxidative mobilization. Uranium and chromium are two elements of particular concern within the DOE complex that, owing to their abundance and toxicity, appear well suited for biologically mediated reductive stabilization. Subsurface microbial activity can alter the redox state of toxic metals and radionuclides, rending them immobile. Imparting an important criterion on the probability that contaminants will undergo reductive stabilization, however, is the chemical and physical heterogeneity of the media. Our research first examined microbially induced transformation of iron (hydr)oxide minerals and their impact on contaminant attenuation. We revealed that in intricate cascade of geochemical reactions is induced by microbially produced Fe(II), and that during transformation contaminants such as U(VI) can be incorporated into the structure, and a set of Fe(II) bearing solids capable of reducing Cr(VI) and stabilizing resulting Cr(III). We also note, however, that common subsurface constituents such as phosphate can modify iron oxide transformation pathways and thus impact contaminant sequestration - affecting both Cr and U

The primary discuss with migmatite uranium mineralization of 505 uranium points in Datian, Panzhihua, Sichuan province

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhao Jianbo; Yao Jian; Li Pilin

2012-01-01

The Presinian migmatitic complexes of Kangding Group distributed along 505 area of Datian, Panzhihua, Sichuan Province. Describing the geological features on 505 Uranium points, summarizing and analyzing the genesis of the migmatite complexes, overall structure, hydrothermal alteration, ore characteristics. It comes to a conclusion that the mineral type is migmatite uranium mineralization which is controlled by the migmatization and east-west structure. (authors)

United States uranium enrichment policies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Roberts, R.W.

1977-01-01

ERDA's uranium enrichment program policies governing the manner in which ERDA's enrichment complex is being operated and expanded to meet customer requirements for separative work, research and development activities directed at providing technology alternatives for future enrichment capacity, and establishing the framework for additional domestic uranium enrichment capacity to meet the domestic and foreign nuclear industry's growing demand for enrichment services are considered. The ERDA enrichment complex consists of three gaseous diffusion plants located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee; Paducah, Kentucky; and Portsmouth, Ohio. Today, these plants provide uranium enrichment services for commercial nuclear power generation. These enrichment services are provided under contracts between the Government and the utility customers. ERDA's program involves a major pilot plant cascade, and pursues an advanced isotope separation technique for the late 1980's. That the United States must develop additional domestic uranium enrichment capacity is discussed

Redox properties of biscyclopentadienyl uranium(V) imido-halide complexes: a relativistic DFT study.

Science.gov (United States)

Elkechai, Aziz; Kias, Farida; Talbi, Fazia; Boucekkine, Abdou

2014-06-01

Calculations of ionization energies (IE) and electron affinities (EA) of a series of biscyclopentadienyl imido-halide uranium(V) complexes Cp*2U(=N-2,6-(i)Pr2-C6H3)(X) with X =  F, Cl, Br, and I, related to the U(IV)/U(V) and U(V)/U(VI) redox systems, were carried out, for the first time, using density functional theory (DFT) in the framework of the relativistic zeroth order regular approximation (ZORA) coupled with the conductor-like screening model (COSMO) solvation approach. A very good linear correlation (R(2) =  0.993) was obtained, between calculated ionization energies at the ZORA/BP86/TZP level, and the experimental half-wave oxidation potentials E1/2. A similar linear correlation between the computed electron affinities and the electrochemical reduction U(IV)/U(III) potentials (R(2) =  0.996) is obtained. The importance of solvent effects and of spin-orbit coupling is definitively confirmed. The molecular orbital analysis underlines the crucial role played by the 5f orbitals of the central metal whereas the Nalewajski-Mrozek (N-M) bond indices explain well the bond distances variations following the redox processes. The IE variation of the complexes, i.e., IE(F) uranium charges and E1/2 in the reduction process of the U(V) species.

Estimation of uranium forms in oceanic water

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Krylov, O.T.; Novikov, P.D.; Nesterova, M.P.

1985-01-01

A critical consideration is given to the notions about uranium forms in ocean water. To estimate uranium forms a model is suggested which takes into account possjble formation of complexes of uranyl ions and ocean water anions Cl - , SO 4 2- , CO 3 2- , HCO 3 - , OH - , F - . The available published data are used to estimate necessary thermodynamic stability constants of the complexes, activity coefficients and concentration of componenets. The thermodynamic calculation shows that uranium hydroxocomplex compounds UO 2 (OH) 4 2- (99.17%) and UO 2 (OH) 3 - (083%) are the most probable uranium forms in ocear water of 34.3% salinity at 25 deg C and 1 atm pressure

Southern complex: geology, geochemistry, mineralogy, and mineral chemistry of selected uranium- and thorium-rich granites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hoffman, M.A.

1987-01-01

Four major rock groups are defined in the Southern Complex: the Bell Creek Granite (BCG), the Clotted Granitoids (CGR), the Albite Granite (AGR), and the Migmatite Complex. Metatexites of the Migmatite Complex are the oldest rocks and include paleosome of a metasedimentary and metavolcanic protolith represented by Banded Iron Formation, Banded Amphibolite, and Banded Gneisses, and interlayered or crosscutting leucogranites. The CGR span the range from metatexite to diatexite and represent in-situ partial melting of metapelitic layers in the protolith during intrusion of the BCG. The BCG cuts the migmatites, is locally cut by the CGR, and was derived by partial melting of a dominantly metasedimentary protolith at some depth below the presently exposed migmatites during a regional tectonothermal event. The Albite Granite is a 2km diameter, muscovite-fluorite-columbite-bearing intrusive stock that cuts all other major units. The thorium history of the BCG is a function of the history of monazite. The thorium history of the CGR is also dominated by monazite but the thorium content of this unit cannot be entirely accounted for by original restite monazite. The uranium history of the BCG and CGR was dominated by magmatic differentiation and post magmatic, metamorphic and supergene redistributions and is largely independent of the thorium history. The thorium and uranium history of the AGR was dominated by magmatic/deuteric processes unlike the BCG and CGR

Radiochemical investigations to the complex formation of uranium (VI) with silicic acid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hrnecek, E.

1997-12-01

The complexation of tracer amounts of UO 2 2+ by silicic acid was investigated by an extraction method using 2,5. 10 -3 M 1-(2-thenoyl)-3,3,3-trifloroacetone (IMA) in benzene as extractant at 25 degree C. The tracer used in the experiments was uranium-232, which has been separated from its daughter nuclides by ion exchange from 10 M HCl on Dowex 1x2. The ionic strength in the aqueous phase for the extractions was kept constant at 0,2 M (Na, H)ClO 4 and the pH was varied between pH 2,5 and pH 4,5. For the determination of the stability constants, a silicic acid concentration of 0,01 M, 0,03 M and 0,067 M in the (Na, H)ClO 4 solution was used. The time- and pH- dependence of the polymerization of these silicic acid solutions was determined by kinetical investigations with an ammoniumheptamolybdate-reagent. The uranium concentration in the aqueous and organic phases was determined by liquid scintillation counting using α/β -discrimination. The stability constants determined were log Q1, = -2,20 for the reaction UO 2 2+ Si(OH) 4 = UO 2 OSi(OH) 3 + + H + and Q 2 = -5,87 for the reaction of the polymeric silicate UO 2 2+ (-SiOH) j (-SiOH) j-2 (SiO) 2 UO 2 +2 H + . The influence of silicate on the speciation calculations for uranium in a model natural water is also discussed. (author)

Geology and exploration of the Rum Jungle Uranium Field

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fraser, W.J.

1980-01-01

The Rum Jungle Uranium Field was discovered by a private prospector in 1949. A total of 3530 tonnes of uranium oxide was mined and treated from four ore-bodies by Territory Enterprises Pty. Limited who managed the Rum Jungle Project on behalf of the Australian Atomic Energy Commission until the closure of operations in 1971. One small low grade uranium orebody remains to be developed. Lead, zinc, copper, cobalt and nickel were found zoned sub vertically with uranium at one deposit. One medium sized lead, zinc, copper, cobalt and nickel deposit remains to be developed and one small copper deposit with minor uranium was mined. The basemetal deposits show a regional zoning relationship with the known uranium mineralization. Uranium and basemetal mineralization is hosted by graphitic or chloritic, pyritic shales at the contact with a magnesite. These rocks are in the lower part of a sequence of Lower Proterozoic sediments which unconformably overlie Archaean basement complexes. The sediments and complexes are displaced by Giants Reef Fault and sub-parallel shears and linears may further control mineralization. Nearly 50km of the prospective shale/magnesite contact was tested by total count radiometric surveys, various electrical methods, auger, rotary percussion and diamond drilling. The source for the uranium mineralization was probably the Archaean basement complexes from which uranium was initially deposited as protore by either chemical precipitation or clay adsorption in the shale units or as detrital placers in quartz pebble conglomerates immediately overlying the basement complexes. (author)

Uranium. Suppl. Vol. C7

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Keim, R.; Keller, C.

1982-01-01

In this supplement volume C7 the nitrogen compounds of uranium-anides, imides, nitrides, nitrites, nitrates are dealt with. Whereas amides, imides and nitrates have only been of scientific interest up to now, uranium nitride and uranylnitrate are of great technological importance. Therefore the description of the chemical and physical characteristics of UN as a potential fuel for future reactors already comprises about 1/4 of this volume. Also the description of uranyl nitrate - as one of the most important commercial forms of uranium and because of its importance in the chemistry of nuclear fuel element reprocessing - comprises many pages. This is supplemented by further uranium nitrides, ternary and polynary nitrides, oxide nitrides, double nitrides of the various valence steps as well as nitrate complexes and ternary and quarternary systems containing uranyl nitrate. The radiation behaviour of UN, and its distribution (liquid/liquid, liquid solid) as well as the complex formation of the uranyl ion with nitrate are described in other volumes of the uranium series. (RB) [de

Towards new developments in uranium chemistry. Scientific report presented to obtain and Accreditation to Supervise Research

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Berthet, Jean-Claude

2003-01-01

After a presentation of his academic curriculum, the author proposes an overview of some of his main research activities and works which notably addressed the reactivity of uranium III complexes (synthesis and reactivity of uranium hydride complexes, synthesis of poly-metallic complexes), amide complexes (synthesis of uranium IV amide precursors, reactivity of cationic complexes, synthesis of uranium IV complexes), uranium triflate (or trifluoromethanesulfonate) complexes, the synthesis of U(Cot)X_2(L)_n complexes and of their derivatives, the complexing of lanthanide iodides and triflates

Cyclopentadienyl uranium, neptunium and plutonium chemistry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Plews, M.J.

1985-01-01

The thesis presents the preparation and characterisation of a number of mono, bis and tris(cyclopentadienyl) complexes of uranium(IV), neptunium(IV) and plutonium(IV). The work of previous studies on mono(cyclopentadienyl) thorium and uranium complexes has been extended, and a range of isostructural neptunium species isolated. Their mode of formation and stability in tetrahydrofuran and acetonitrile solutions was investigated. (author)

Precambrian uranium deposits as a possible source of uranium for the European Variscan deposits

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mineeva, I.G.; Klochkov, A.S.

2002-01-01

The Precambrian uranium deposits have been studied on the territory of Baltic and Ukrainian shields. The primary Early Proterozoic complex Au-U deposits originated in granite-greenstone belts as a result of their evolution during continental earth crust formation by prolonged rift genesis. The greenstone belts are clues for revealing ancient protoriftogenic structures. The general regularities of uranium deposition on Precambrian shields are also traceable in Variscan uranium deposits from the Bohemian massif. The Variscan period of uranium ore formation is connected with a polychronous rejuvenation of ancient riftogenous systems and relatively younger processes of oil and gas formation leading to the repeated mobilization of U from destroyed Proterozoic and Riphean uranium deposits. (author)

Uranium recovery from mine water

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sarkar, K.M.

1984-01-01

In many plant trials it has been proven that very small amounts (10 to 20 ppm) of uranium dissolved in mine water can be effectively recovered by the use of ion exchange resins and this uranium recovery has many advantages. In this paper an economic analysis at different levels of uranium contamination and at different market prices of uranium are described. For this study an operating mine-mill complex with a sulphuric acid leach circuit, followed by solvent extraction (SX) process, is considered, where contaminated mine water is available in excess of process requirements. It is further assumed that the sulphuric acid eluant containing uranium would be mixed with the mill pregnant liquor stream that proceeds to the SX plant for final uranium recovery

Electrochemical investigation of tetravalent uranium β-diketones for active materials of all-uranium redox flow battery

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yamamura, Tomoo; Shiokawa, Yoshinobu; Ikeda, Yasuhisa

2002-01-01

For active materials of the all-uranium redox flow battery for the power storage, tetravalent uranium β-diketones were investigated. The electrode reactions of U(ba) 4 and U(btfa) 4 were examined in comparison with that of U(acac) 4 , where ba denotes benzoylacetone, btfa benzoyltrifluoroacetone and acac acetylacetone. The cyclic voltammograms of U(ba) 4 and U(btfa) 4 solutions indicate that there are two series of redox reactions corresponding to the complexes with different coordination numbers of four and three. The electrode kinetics of the U(IV)/U(III) redox reactions for btfa complexes is examined. The obtained result supports that the uranium β-diketone complexes examined in the present study will serve as excellent active materials for negative electrolyte in the redox flow battery. (author)

Study on complexation behaviour of uranium and thorium with amino acids at different temperatures in aqueous media

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Joshi, J.D.; Patel, M.R.; Patel, A.D.

1992-01-01

The complexation behaviour of uranium and thorium with important amino acids have been studied using Irving-Rossotti titration technique at 25deg, 35deg and 45degC in inert atmosphere of nitrogen and 0.1M ionic strength using NaClO 4 . The thermodynamic parameters ΔG, ΔH and ΔS have been calculated. Results indicate that thorium (IV) is forming more stable complexes than UO 2 2+ . (author). 3 refs., 2 tab

Synthesis, structure, spectroscopy and redox energetics of a series of uranium(4) mixed-ligand metallocene complexes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Thomson, R.K.; Scott, B.L.; Morris, D.E.; Kiplinger, J.L. [Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM (United States)

2010-06-15

A series of uranium(IV) mixed-ligand amide-halide/pseudo-halide complexes (C{sub 5}Me{sub 5}){sub 2}U[N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}](X) (X = F (1), Cl (2), Br (3), I (4), N{sub 3} (5), NCO (6)), (C{sub 5}Me{sub 5}){sub 2}U(NPh{sub 2})(X) (X = Cl (7), N{sub 3} (8)), and (C{sub 5}Me{sub 5}){sub 2}U[N(Ph)(SiMe{sub 3})](X) (X Cl (9), N{sub 3} (10)) have been prepared by one electron oxidation of the corresponding uranium(III) amide precursors using either copper halides, silver iso-cyanate, or triphenylphosphine gold(I)azide. Agostic U---H-C interactions and {eta}{sub 3}-(N,C,C') coordination are observed for these complexes in both the solid-state and solution. There is a linear correlation between the chemical shift values of the C{sub 5}Me{sub 5} ligand protons in the {sup 1}H NMR spectra and the U(IV)/U(III) reduction potentials of the (C{sub 5}Me{sub 5}){sub 2}U[N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}](X) complexes, suggesting that there is a common origin, that is overall {sigma}-/{pi}-donation from the ancillary (X) ligand to the metal, contributing to both observables. Optical spectroscopy of the series of complexes 1-6 is dominated by the (C{sub 5}Me{sub 5}){sub 2}U[N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}] core, with small variations derived from the identity of the halide/pseudo-halide. The considerable {pi}-donating ability of the fluoride ligand is reflected in both the electrochemistry and UV-visible-NIR spectroscopic behavior of the fluoride complex (C{sub 5}Me{sub 5}){sub 2}U[N(SiMe{sub 3}){sub 2}](F) (1). The syntheses of the new trivalent uranium amide complex, (C{sub 5}Me{sub 5}){sub 2}U[N(Ph)(SiMe{sub 3})](THF), and the two new weakly-coordinating electrolytes, [Pr{sub 4}N][B{l_brace}3,5-(CF{sub 3}){sub 2}C{sub 6}H{sub 3{r_brace}4}] and [Pr{sub 4}N][B(C{sub 6}F{sub 5}){sub 4}], are also reported. (authors)

Recovery of uranium from seawater

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hirotsu, Takahiro; Takagi, Norio; Katoh, Shunsaku

1995-01-01

Present status of the development of chelating adsorbents for the recovery of uranium from seawater is outlined with emphasis on the research by the author. Uranium is estimated to exist as stable tri (carbonate) uranylate (6) ion in seawater in a very low concentration. The adsorbent for uranium from seawater in a very low concentration. The adsorbent for uranium from seawater should have high selectivity and affinity for uranium around pH 8. The required characteristics for uranium adsorbent are examined. Various chelating adsorbents have been proposed for the uranium adsorbent and their structures are discussed. Amidoxime type adsorbents have the highest adsorbing power for uranium among the adsorbents hitherto developed and fibrous amidoxime adsorbents are most promising for the practical application. Synthesis, structure and suitable shape of the amidoxime adsorbents are discussed. Uranium adsorption behavior and the amount of saturated adsorption are examined theoretically based on the complexation of an amidoxime monomer and the formula for the adsorption equiliburium is derived. The adsorption and recovery process for uranium from seawater is composed of adsorption, desorption, separation and concentration and finally, uranium is recovered as the yellow cake. A floating body mooring system is proposed by Nobukawa. (T.H.)

Titration of uranium trace amounts in waters environment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Larabi-Gruet, N.; Ithurbide, A.; Poulesquen, A.; Beaucaire, C.; Peulon, S.; Chausse, A.

2007-01-01

In the framework of studies concerning the uranium migration in soils and rocks, it seems necessary to quantify the uranium(VI) dissolved in solution. In the environmental conditions, the uranium(VI) is present at trace amounts. The most adapted method to this study and easy to carry out is the Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry. By addition of a compound (ligand) with a reducing and strong complexing power, the uranium(VI) present in solution is reduced into a U(VI)-ligand complex. This specie is then oxidized and adsorbed on the mercury droplet where an electrolytic pre-concentration of the element to determine the quantity of is carried out. At last, a cathodic re-dissolution of the specie adsorbed in the U(IV)-ligand complex is carried out. The chosen analytical method is the differential impulsional voltammetry. With this method, it is possible to quantify low electro-active species quantities (sensitivity ∼25 ppt (10 -10 mol.L -1 ) for the uranium). This titration method in solution has been optimized, at first, in a non complexing medium. Then, the uranium in solution has been titrated in media whose composition has been progressively complexed (additions of CO 3 2- , SO 4 2- , Cl - ..) for being at last representative of the environmental interstitial waters. At last, this study has been carried out too by ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry) in order to compare the analysis sensitivity of these two detection methods. (O.M.)

Can we predict uranium bioavailability based on soil parameters? Part 2: soil solution uranium concentration is not a good bioavailability index.

Science.gov (United States)

Vandenhove, H; Van Hees, M; Wannijn, J; Wouters, K; Wang, L

2007-01-01

The present study aimed to quantify the influence of soil parameters on uranium uptake by ryegrass. Ryegrass was established on eighteen distinct soils, spiked with (238)U. Uranium soil-to-plant transfer factors (TF) ranged from 0.0003 to 0.0340kgkg(-1). There was no significant relation between the U soil-to-plant transfer (or total U uptake or flux) and the uranium concentration in the soil solution or any other soil factor measured, nor with the U recovered following selective soil extractions. Multiple linear regression analysis resulted in a significant though complex model explaining up to 99% of variation in TF. The influence of uranium speciation on uranium uptake observed was featured: UO(2)(+2), uranyl carbonate complexes and UO(2)PO(4)(-) seem the U species being preferentially taken up by the roots and transferred to the shoots. Improved correlations were obtained when relating the uranium TF with the summed soil solution concentrations of mentioned uranium species.

Determination of uranium and thorium in complex matrices by two solvent extraction separation techniques and photon electron rejecting alpha liquid spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ayranov, M.; Wacker, L.; Kraehenbuehl, U.

2001-01-01

The separation of uranium and thorium from complex matrixes such as marine sediments using solvent extraction and determination by means of photon-electron rejecting liquid alpha spectrometry (PERALS trademark) has successfully been performed. Two extraction schemes, using TOPO and HDEHP, respectively, were compared for the separation of uranium and thorium from the matrix components. The results show recoveries between 73 and 92% for 234 U, 238 U, 232 Th, 230 Th and 238 Th with an accuracy of the methods ±12%. Minimum detectable activities for counting time up to 500 000 seconds for 0.5 g sample material were between 0.34-1.15 Bq/kg for uranium and 0.31-1.66 Bq/kg for thorium. (orig.)

U uranium. Suppl. Vol. D3

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Haug, H.O.

1982-01-01

This volume of the uranium series of the Gmelin handbook deals with the anion exchange of uranium. Compounds of the valence states of III, IV, V and VI of uranium in halide, nitrate, sulfate, phosphate, and carbonate media as well as in media containing organic complexing agents are treated. The literature cited covers the period from about 1947 to the end of 1980. (RB) [de

What a difference a 5f element makes: trivalent and tetravalent uranium halide complexes supported by one and two bis[2-(diisopropylphosphino)-4-methylphenyl]amido (PNP) ligands.

Science.gov (United States)

Cantat, Thibault; Scott, Brian L; Morris, David E; Kiplinger, Jaqueline L

2009-03-02

The coordination behavior of the bis[2-(diisopropylphosphino)-4-methylphenyl]amido ligand (PNP) toward UI3(THF)4 and UCl4 has been investigated to access new uranium(III) and uranium(IV) halide complexes supported by one and two PNP ligands. The reaction between (PNP)K (6) and 1 equiv of UI3(THF)4 afforded the trivalent halide complex (PNP)UI2(4-tBu-pyridine)2 (7) in the presence of 4-tert-butylpyridine. The same reaction carried out with UCl4 and no donor ligand gave [(PNP)UCl3]2 (8), in which the uranium coordination sphere in the (PNP)UCl3 unit is completed by a bridging chloride ligand. When UCl4 is reacted with 1 equiv (PNP)K (6) in the presence of THF, trimethylphosphine oxide (TMPO), or triphenylphosphineoxide (TPPO), the tetravalent halide complexes (PNP)UCl3(THF) (9), (PNP)UCl3(TMPO)2 (10), and (PNP)UCl3(TPPO) (11), respectively, are formed in excellent yields. The bis(PNP) complexes of uranium(III), (PNP)2UI (12), and uranium(IV), (PNP)2UCl2 (13), were easily isolated from the analogous reactions between 2 equiv of 6 and UI3(THF)4 or UCl4, respectively. Complexes 12 and 13 represent the first examples of complexes featuring two PNP ligands coordinated to a single metal center. Complexes 7-13 have been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and 1H and 31P NMR spectroscopy. The X-ray structures demonstrate the ability of the PNP ligand to adopt new coordination modes upon coordination to uranium. The PNP ligand can adopt both pseudo-meridional and pseudo-facial geometries when it is kappa3-(P,N,P) coordinated, depending on the steric demand at the uranium metal center. Additionally, its hemilabile character was demonstrated with an unusual kappa2-(P,N) coordination mode that is maintained in both the solid-state and in solution. Comparison of the structures of the mono(PNP) and bis(PNP) complexes 7, 9, 11-13 with their respective C5Me5 analogues 1-4 undoubtedly show that a more sterically congested environment is provided by the PNP ligand. The

A spectroscopic study of uranium and molybdenum complexation within the pore channels of hybrid mesoporous silica

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Charlot, Alexandre [CEA, DEN, DTDC, SPDE, Laboratoire des Procedes Supercritiques de Separation, Bagnols-sur-Ceze (France); CEA, DEN, DTDC, SPDE, Laboratoire de Developpement des Procedes de Separation, Bagnols-sur-Ceze (France); Dumas, Thomas [CEA, DEN, DTDC, SPDE, Laboratoire d' Interaction Ligands Actinides, Bagnols-sur-Ceze (France); Solari, Pier L. [Synchrotron SOLEIL, L' Orme des Merisiers, Saint-Aubin, Gif-sur-Yvette (France); Cuer, Frederic [CEA, DEN, DTDC, SPDE, Laboratoire de Developpement des Procedes de Separation, Bagnols-sur-Ceze (France); Grandjean, Agnes [CEA, DEN, DTDC, SPDE, Laboratoire des Procedes Supercritiques de Separation, Bagnols-sur-Ceze (France)

2017-01-18

To enable the reduction of the environmental impact of nuclear energy generation, in this paper, we link the molecular and macroscopic behaviour of a functionalized material (TR rate at SBA15) used to extract uranium from sulfuric media. Two organic 3-[N,N-di(2-ethylhexyl)carbamoyl]-3-[ethoxy(hydroxy)phosphoryl]propanoic acid (TR) molecules grafted onto the solid are involved in the extraction process and form a 2:1 TR-U complex. FTIR and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopic analyses show that the TR-U bond is realized through a phosphonate group in a monodentate fashion below pH 3, in agreement with the macroscopic observations. The first coordination sphere of the uranyl ion is completed by two monodentate sulfate ions and one water molecule. Above pH 3, the TR contribution decreases, and other inner-sphere complexes appear, which is consistent with the increased extraction observed on the macroscopic scale. Molybdenum, a competitor element, reduces the uranium extraction capacity but not its speciation, whereas polyoxomolybdates form inside the pores from the molybdenum in solution. (copyright 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Indoor radon related to uranium in granitoids of the Central Bohemian plutonic complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barnet, I.; Fojtikova, I.

2004-01-01

The study is based on the indoor radon data (one year measurements, Kodak LR 115 track etch detectors), vectorized geological maps 1:50000, vectorized coordinates of dwellings and uranium data for granitoid types of the Central Bohemian Plutonic Complex (CBPC). Using ArcGis 8.2 programme, the position of 16145 dwellings was linked to a geological database covering the CBPC (approx. 3200 km 2 ), and the type of underlying rock type was specified for each house. The resulting databases enabled us to calculate the mean EEC indoor Rn data for particular granitoid types and to study the relationship between the indoor Rn and the U concentrations. The petrogenetically variable CBPC was emplaced during Variscan orogenesis (330-350 Ma) and is among the most radioactive rock types within the Bohemian Massif. A long-term process of CBPC genesis resulted in more than 20 granitoid types, differing by their petrogenetic characteristics as well as mineralogical and chemical composition, including uranium concentration. The relation between the mean indoor radon values and uranium concentrations in particular rock types was examined. A positive regression between indoor Rn and uranium as the source of Rn soil gas clearly demonstrates how regional geology influences the indoor radon activity concentration in dwellings. The highest indoor Rn concentrations were observed in the Sedlcany granodiorite and Certovo bremeno syenite, where also the highest gamma dose rates (150-210 nGy.h -1 ) within all granitoid types in the Czech Republic were observed. The two rock types differ from other granitoids by a relatively high zircon concentration, which is the main source of U and subsequently of soil gas Rn being released from the bedrock. The lower indoor Rn values of Certovo bremeno syenite which do not correspond with the high U concentrations can be explained by a relatively low permeability of its clayey weathering crust. This feature was also observed for soil gas radon concentration

Final Report - Elucidating Bioreductive Transformations within Physically Complex Media: Impact on the Fate and Transport of Uranium and Chromium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Benner, Shawn G.; Fendorf, Scott

2009-01-01

In situ stabilization (inclusive of natural attenuation) of toxic metals and radionuclides is an attractive approach for remediating many contaminated DOE sites. By immobilizing toxic metals and radionuclides in place, the removal of contaminated water to the surface for treatment as well as the associated disposal costs are avoided. To enhance in situ remediaton, microbiological reductive stabilization of contaminant metals has been, and continues to be, actively explored. It is likely that surface and subsurface microbial activity can alter the redox state of toxic metals and radionuclides, either directly or indirectly, so they are rendered immobile. Furthermore, anaerobic bacterial metabolic products will help to buffer pulses of oxidation, typically from fluxes of nitrate or molecular oxygen, and thus may stabilize reduced contaminants from oxidative mobilization. Uranium and chromium are two elements of particular concern within the DOE complex that, owing to their abundance and toxicity, appear well suited for biologically mediated reductive stabilization. Subsurface microbial activity can alter the redox state of toxic metals and radionuclides, rending them immobile. Imparting an important criterion on the probability that contaminants will undergo reductive stabilization, however, is the chemical and physical heterogeneity of the media. Our research first examined microbially induced transformation of iron (hydr)oxide minerals and their impact on contaminant attenuation. We revealed that in intricate cascade of geochemical reactions is induced by microbially produced Fe(II), and that during transformation contaminants such as U(VI) can be incorporated into the structure, and a set of Fe(II) bearing solids capable of reducing Cr(VI) and stabilizing resulting Cr(III). We also note, however, that common subsurface constituents such as phosphate can modify iron oxide transformation pathways and thus impact contaminant sequestration - 'affecting both Cr and U

Liquid membrane process for uranium recovery

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Valint, P.L. Jr.

1982-01-01

An improved liquid membrane emulsion extraction process for recovering uranium from a WPPA feed solution containing uranyl cations wherein said feed is contacted with a water-in-oil emulsion which extracts and captures the uranium in the interior aqueous phase thereof, wherein the improvement comprises the presence of an alkane diphosphonic acid uranium complexing agent in the interior phase of the emulsion. This improvement results in greater extraction efficiency

Speciation of uranium with respect to hydrogeological aspects

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Meinrath, G.

1997-01-01

Until 1991, eastern Germany has been third largest uranium producer in the world. After the cease of uranium production, larger areas remained contaminated by uranium mining debris, mill-tailings and mining areas. Since 1991 these areas are in the process of remediation by intervention. In Germany, legal stipulations require the prognosis of the likely mid-term impact of an intervention. The benefit of a planned remediation procedure must be evident against the Zero option (doing nothing) and alternative actions. Thermodynamic data of geochemically relevant reactions for uranium under conditions of natural aqueous solution serve as important input data into geochemical reactive transport codes. Especially hydrolysis and carbonato complexation of hexavalent uranium influence the geochemical behaviour of uranium. The first part of the report report summarizes the fundamental chemical facts on mineralogy, electronic structure, UV-Vis and emission spectroscopy of hexavalent uranium. A second part reports in depth the experimental and numerical procedures to study the hydrolytic and carbonate complexation behaviour of hexavalent uranium. The evaluation of single component spectra of the relevant uranium species is discussed. Spectral curves are quantitatively deconcoluted into single components. In all cases the associated uncertainties are given. Thermodynamic data on hydrolysis and carbonato species derived from these experiments are compared to existing data in the literature. (orig.)

New french uranium mineral species; Nouvelles especes uraniferes francaises

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Branche, G; Chervet, J; Guillemin, C [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Lab. du Fort de Chatillon, Fontenay-aux-Roses (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1952-07-01

In this work, the authors study the french new uranium minerals: parsonsite and renardite, hydrated phosphates of lead and uranium; kasolite: silicate hydrated of uranium and lead uranopilite: sulphate of uranium hydrated; bayleyite: carbonate of uranium and of hydrated magnesium; {beta} uranolite: silicate of uranium and of calcium hydrated. For all these minerals, the authors give the crystallographic, optic characters, and the quantitative chemical analyses. On the other hand, the following species, very rare in the french lodgings, didn't permit to do quantitative analyses. These are: the lanthinite: hydrated uranate oxide; the {alpha} uranotile: silicate of uranium and of calcium hydrated; the bassetite: uranium phosphate and of hydrated iron; the hosphuranylite: hydrated uranium phosphate; the becquerelite: hydrated uranium oxide; the curite: oxide of uranium and lead hydrated. Finally, the authors present at the end of this survey a primary mineral: the brannerite, complex of uranium titanate. (author) [French] Dans ce travail, les auteurs etudient les nouveaux mineraux uraniferes francais: parsonsite et renardite, phosphates hydrates de plomb et d'uranium; kasolite: silicate hydrate d'uranium et de plomb uranopilite: sulfate d'uranium hydrate; bayleyite: carbonate d'uranium et de magnesium hydrate; {beta} uranolite: silicate d'uranium et de calcium hydrate. Pour tous ces mineraux, les auteurs donnent les caracteres cristallographiques, optiques, et les analyses chimiques quantitatives. Par contre, les especes suivantes, tres rares dans les gites francais, n'ont pas permis d'effectuer d'analyses quantitatives. Ce sont: l'ianthinite: oxyde uraneux hydrate; l'{alpha} uranotile: silicate d'uranium et de calcium hydrate; le bassetite: phosphate d'uranium et de fer hydrate; la hosphuranylite: phosphate duranium hydrate; la becquerelite: oxyde d'uranium hydrate; la curite: oxyde d'uranium et de plomb hydrate. Enfin, les auteurs presentent a la fin de cette etude

Some potential strategies for the treatment of waste uranium metal and uranium alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Burns, C.J.; Frankcom, T.M.; Gordon, P.L.; Sauer, N.N.

1993-01-01

Large quantities of uranium metal chips and turnings stored throughout the DOE Complex represent a potential hazard, due to the reactivity of this material toward air and water. Methods are being sought to mitigate this by conversion of the metal, via room temperature solutions routes, to a more inert oxide form. In addition, the recycling of uranium and concomitant recovery of alloying metals is a desirable goal. The emphasis of the authors' research is to explore a variety of oxidation and reduction pathways for uranium and its compounds, and to investigate how these reactions might be applied to the treatment of bulk wastes

Electrical impedance studies of uranium oxide

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hampton, R.N.

1986-11-01

The thesis presents data on the electrical properties of uranium oxide at temperatures from 1700K to 4.2K, and pressures between 25 K bar and 70 K bar. The impedance data were analysed using the technique of complex plane representation to establish the conductivity and dielectric constant of uranium dioxide. The thermophysical data were compared with previously reported experimental and theoretical work on uranium dioxide and other fluorite structured oxides. (U.K.)

Activation of chalcogens and chalcogenides at reactive uranium centers

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Franke, Michael Sebastian

2015-07-23

The high reactivity of many trivalent uranium complexes was investigated in the Meyer group, however, these studies were not limited to small-molecule activation, but were extended to other relatively inert reagents like the heavier elemental chalcogens sulfur, selenium, and tellurium. The tripodal N-anchored chelate ({sup Ad,Me}ArO){sub 3}N{sup 3-} (trianion of tris(3-Adamantyl-2-hydroxy-5-methylbenzyl)amine) was found to be a very suitable candidate for this task and the respective uranium(III) complex [(({sup Ad,Me}ArO){sub 3}N)U{sup III}(DME)] is able to activate elemental sulfur and selenium to form the dinuclear, chalcogenido-bridged complexes [{(("A"d","M"eArO)_3N)U"I"V(DME)}{sub 2}(μ-E)] (E = S, Se). Starting from this previously accomplished work, research in this thesis aimed at furthering reactivity studies of trivalent [(({sup Ad,Me}ArO){sub 3}N)U{sup III}(DME)], but also its chalcogenido-bridged uranium(IV) products, and the spectroscopic characterization of all newly synthesized compounds. Furthermore, the development of the new phenol HOAr* (Ar* = 2,6-(CHPh{sub 2}){sub 2}-4-Me-C{sub 6}H{sub 2}, 2,6-bis(diphenylmethyl)-4-methylphenyl) and its establishment as a ligand to be used for uranium coordination chemistry was another goal of this thesis. The activation of CO{sub 2} by uranium(III) complex [(({sup Ad,Me}ArO){sub 3}N)U{sup III}(DME)] to yield the dinuclear, carbonate-bridged uranium(IV/IV) complex [{(("A"d","M"eArO)_3N)U"I"V(DME)}{sub 2}(μ-κ{sup 1}:κ{sup 2}-CO{sub 3})] and CO was reported in 2010 by Meyer and co-workers. These previous results led to the pursuit of the isolation of mixed chalcogenocarbonate complexes from the reaction of the bridging chalcogenidos [{(("A"d","M"eArO)_3N)U"I"V(DME)}{sub 2}(μ-E)] (E = S, Se) with either CO{sub 2} or its heterocumulene analogs COS or CS{sub 2}. The chalcogeno-carbonates [{(("A"d","M"eArO)_3N)U"I"V(DME)}{sub 2}(μ-κ{sup 1}:κ{sup 2}-CO{sub 2}E)] und [{(("A"d","M"eArO)_3N)U"I"V-(DME)}{sub 2}(�

Trinuclear Schiff base complexes with uranium(V) and copper(II) or zinc(II) ions

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Salmon, L.; Thuery, P.; Ephritikhine, M. [CEA Saclay, DSM, DRECAM, Serv Chim Mol, Lab Claude Frejacques, CNRS URA 331, F-91191 Gif Sur Yvette, (France)

2007-07-01

Treatment of the uranium(IV) complexes [{l_brace}ML{sup 1}(py){r_brace}{sub 2}U(IV)] (M = Cu, Zn; L{sup 1} = N, N'-bis(3-hydroxy-salicylidene)-1,3-propane-diamine) with silver nitrate in pyridine led to the formation of the corresponding cationic uranium(V) species which were found to be thermally unstable and were converted back into the parent U(IV) complexes; no electron transfer was observed in solution between the U(IV) and U(V) compounds. In the crystals of [{l_brace}ML{sup 1}(py){r_brace}{sub 2}U(IV)][{l_brace}ML{sup 1}(py){r_brace}{sub 2}U(V)][NO{sub 3}], the neutral U(IV) and cationic U(V) species are clearly identified by the distinct U-O distances. Similar reaction of [{l_brace}ZnL{sup 2}(py){r_brace}{sub 2}U(IV)] [L{sup 2} N,N'-bis(3-hydroxy-salicylidene)-1,4-butane-diamine] with AgNO{sub 3} gave crystals of [{l_brace}ZnL{sup 2}(py){r_brace}U(V){l_brace}ZnL{sup 2}(py){sub 2}{r_brace}][NO{sub 3}] but the copper counterpart was not isolated. Crystals of [{l_brace}ZnL{sup 1}(py){r_brace}{sub 2}U(V)][OTf].THF (OTf = OSO{sub 2}CF{sub 3}) were obtained fortuitously from the reaction of [Zn(H{sub 2}L{sup 1})] and U(OTf){sub 3}. (authors)

Uranium metal and uranium dioxide powder and pellets - Determination of nitrogen content - Method using ammonia-sensing electrode. 1. ed.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1994-01-01

This International Standard specifies an analytical method for determining the nitrogen content in uranium metal and uranium dioxide powder and pellets. It is applicable to the determination of nitrogen, present as nitride, in uranium metal and uranium dioxide powder and pellets. The concentration range within which the method can be used is between 9 μg and 600 μg of nitrogen per gram. Interference can occur from metals which form complex ammines, but these are not normally present in significant amounts

National Uranium Resource Evaluation: Spartanburg Quadrangle, South Carolina and North Carolina

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Schot, E.H.; Galipeau, J.M.

1980-11-01

The Spartanburg Quadrangle, South Carolina and North Carolina, was evaluated for uranium favorability using National Uranium Resource Evaluation criteria. The evaluation included the study and analysis of published and collected geologic, geophysical, and geochemical data from subsurface, surface, and aerial studies. Five environments are favorable for uranium deposits. The Triassic Wadesboro Basin has ground waters with anomalously high uranium concentrations and uranium-to-conductivity ratios. The Upper Cretaceous Tuscaloosa-Middendorf Formation is near a uranium source and has sediments favorable for uranium deposition. The contact-metamorphic aureoles associated with the Liberty Hill-Kershaw and Winnsboro-Rion plutonic complexes are close to uranium sources and contain the reductants (sulfides, graphite) necessary for precipitation. The East Fork area in the Charlotte Belt has ground waters with uranium concentrations 4 to 132 times the mean concentration reported for the surrounding Piedmont area. Unfavorable environments include the Catawba Granite, the area west of the Winnsboro-Rion complex, gold-quartz veins, the vermiculite district, and the Western Monazite Belt

Uranium fluorides analysis. Titanium spectrophotometric determination

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anon.

Titanium determination in uranium hexafluoride in the range 0.7 to 100 microgrammes after transformation of uranium fluoride in sulfate. Titanium is separated by extraction with N-benzoylphenylhydroxylamine, reextracted by hydrochloric-hydrofluoric acid. The complex titanium-N-benzoylphenylhydroxylamine is extracted by chloroform. Spectrophotometric determination at 400 nm [fr

Uranium (VI) complexing by macrocyclic or chelating ligands in aqueous solutions stability, formation kinetics, polarographic properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brighli, M.

1984-07-01

Stability of chelates (with EDTA,N,N ethylenediamine diacetic acid EDDA nitrilotriacetic acid NTA and iminodiacetic acid) of UO 2 2+ and UO 4 species of uranium VI is studied in aqueous solution (NaClO 4 3M at 25 deg celcius). Structure in solution are proposed and discussed for mononuclear species. Only complexing kinetics (formation and acid hydrolysis) of UO 4 with EDDA and NTA are studied by spectrophotometry (other reactions are too fast). Besides UO 2 2+ complexes are formed with crown ethers I5C5 and I8C6 in aqueous solution (TEA ClO 4 M/10 at 25 deg celcius. Complexes are probably stabilized by solvation. Results are confirmed by voltametry and reduction mechanisms of UO 2 2+ and its complexes on mercury drop are proposed. 143 refs [fr

The South Greenland uranium exploration programme

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Armour-Brown, A.; Tukiainen, T.; Wallin, B.

1982-11-01

This is the final report of the reconnaissance phase of the SYDURAN Project which was initiated in 1st. December 1978 to outline areas of increased uranium potential where more detailed prospection would be warranted. Districts and smaller zones in South Greenland which have the potential for containing economically exploitable uranium occurrences were defined using airborne gamma-spectroscopic, reconnaissance geochemical and geological methods. Other districts and areas have been shown to have no uranium potential and can be eliminated. The three promising districts are: 1. a 2000 square kilometre sub-circular district surrounding Ilimaussaq complex in which there are small high grade pitchblende occurences in faults and fractures in the surrounding granite. 2. the eastern area of the Motzfeldt Centre where large parts of the centre is mineralised and may give rise to exploitable, large tonnage, low grade uranium ore with associated niobium and rare earth elements in extractable quantities. 3. uraniferous rich districts or zones associated with the migmatitic supracrustal units in the area between Kap Farvel and Lindenows Fjord. The areas which were eliminated from having any uranium potential include: the Ketilidian supracrustal unit. the Nunarssuit alkaline complex. The uranium mineralisation in South Greenland is confined to two Proterozoic episodes: a) a late phase of granitisation and migmatisation with the formation of disseminated uraninite in the Migmatite Complex in the south of the project area between 1700-1800 m.y. and, b) hydrothermal activity associated with Gardar magmatic events between 1090-1170 m.y. in the central Granite Zone. Future work should be directed towards the definition and location of drilling targets. (EG)

Diffusive gradient in thin FILMS (DGT) compared with soil solution and labile uranium fraction for predicting uranium bioavailability to ryegrass.

Science.gov (United States)

Duquène, L; Vandenhove, H; Tack, F; Van Hees, M; Wannijn, J

2010-02-01

The usefulness of uranium concentration in soil solution or recovered by selective extraction as unequivocal bioavailability indices for uranium uptake by plants is still unclear. The aim of the present study was to test if the uranium concentration measured by the diffusive gradient in thin films (DGT) technique is a relevant substitute for plant uranium availability in comparison to uranium concentration in the soil solution or uranium recovered by ammonium acetate. Ryegrass (Lolium perenne L. var. Melvina) is grown in greenhouse on a range of uranium spiked soils. The DGT-recovered uranium concentration (C(DGT)) was correlated with uranium concentration in the soil solution or with uranium recovered by ammonium acetate extraction. Plant uptake was better predicted by the summed soil solution concentrations of UO(2)(2+), uranyl carbonate complexes and UO(2)PO(4)(-). The DGT technique did not provide significant advantages over conventional methods to predict uranium uptake by plants. Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Diffusive gradient in thin FILMS (DGT) compared with soil solution and labile uranium fraction for predicting uranium bioavailability to ryegrass

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Duquene, L. [SCK-CEN, Biosphere Impact Studies, Boeretang 200, B-2400 Mol (Belgium); Vandenhove, H., E-mail: hvandenh@sckcen.b [SCK-CEN, Biosphere Impact Studies, Boeretang 200, B-2400 Mol (Belgium); Tack, F. [Ghent University, Laboratory for Analytical Chemistry and Applied Ecochemistry, Coupure Links 653, B-9000 Gent (Belgium); Van Hees, M.; Wannijn, J. [SCK-CEN, Biosphere Impact Studies, Boeretang 200, B-2400 Mol (Belgium)

2010-02-15

The usefulness of uranium concentration in soil solution or recovered by selective extraction as unequivocal bioavailability indices for uranium uptake by plants is still unclear. The aim of the present study was to test if the uranium concentration measured by the diffusive gradient in thin films (DGT) technique is a relevant substitute for plant uranium availability in comparison to uranium concentration in the soil solution or uranium recovered by ammonium acetate. Ryegrass (Lolium perenne L. var. Melvina) is grown in greenhouse on a range of uranium spiked soils. The DGT-recovered uranium concentration (C{sub DGT}) was correlated with uranium concentration in the soil solution or with uranium recovered by ammonium acetate extraction. Plant uptake was better predicted by the summed soil solution concentrations of UO{sub 2}{sup 2+}, uranyl carbonate complexes and UO{sub 2}PO{sub 4}{sup -}. The DGT technique did not provide significant advantages over conventional methods to predict uranium uptake by plants.

Diffusive gradient in thin FILMS (DGT) compared with soil solution and labile uranium fraction for predicting uranium bioavailability to ryegrass

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Duquene, L.; Vandenhove, H.; Tack, F.; Van Hees, M.; Wannijn, J.

2010-01-01

The usefulness of uranium concentration in soil solution or recovered by selective extraction as unequivocal bioavailability indices for uranium uptake by plants is still unclear. The aim of the present study was to test if the uranium concentration measured by the diffusive gradient in thin films (DGT) technique is a relevant substitute for plant uranium availability in comparison to uranium concentration in the soil solution or uranium recovered by ammonium acetate. Ryegrass (Lolium perenne L. var. Melvina) is grown in greenhouse on a range of uranium spiked soils. The DGT-recovered uranium concentration (C DGT ) was correlated with uranium concentration in the soil solution or with uranium recovered by ammonium acetate extraction. Plant uptake was better predicted by the summed soil solution concentrations of UO 2 2+ , uranyl carbonate complexes and UO 2 PO 4 - . The DGT technique did not provide significant advantages over conventional methods to predict uranium uptake by plants.

X-ray spectroscopic studies of microbial transformations of uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dodge, C.J.; Francis, A.J.; Clayton, C.R.

1995-10-01

Several uranium compounds U-metal (α-phase), UO 2 , U 3 O 8 , γ-UO 3 , uranyl acetate, uranyl nitrate, uranyl sulfate, aqueous and solid forms of 1:1 U:citric acid and 1:1:2 U:Fe:citric acid mixed-metal complexes, and a precipitate obtained by photodegradation of the U-citrate complex were characterized by X-ray spectroscopy using XPS, XANES, and EXAFS. XPS and XANES were used to determine U oxidation states. Spectral shifts were obtained at the U 4f 7/2 and U 4f 5/2 binding energies using XPS, and at the uranium M V absorption edge using XANES. The magnitude of the energy shift with oxidation state, and the ability to detect mixed-valent forms make these ideal techniques for determining uranium speciation in wastes subjected to bacterial action. The structure of 1:1 U:citric acid complex in both the aqueous and solid state was determined by EXAFS analysis of hexavalent uranium at the L M absorption edge and suggests the presence of a binuclear complex with a (UO 2 ) 2 (μ,η 2 -citrato) 2 core with a U-U distance of 5.2 angstrom. The influence of Fe on the structure of U-citrate complex was determined by EXAFS and the presence of a binuclear mixed-metal citrate complex with a U-Fe distance of 4.8 angstrom was confirmed. The precipitate resulting from photodegradation of U-citrate complex was identified as an amorphous form of uranium trioxide by XPS and EXAS

Complex defects in the oxidation of uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

MacCrone, R.K.; Sankaran, S.; Shatynski, S.R.; Colmenares, C.A.

1986-01-01

We are reporting EPR results obtained with uranium powder samples fully oxidized in dry air, water vapor, and air/water vapor mixtures. The results reported previously are confirmed and additional paramagnetic centers, associated with chemisorbed species, have been identified. The temperature dependence of the g-value for these centers from room temperature to 10K is also reported

Absorption spectra analysis of hydrated uranium(III) complex chlorides

Science.gov (United States)

Karbowiak, M.; Gajek, Z.; Drożdżyński, J.

2000-11-01

Absorption spectra of powdered samples of hydrated uranium(III) complex chlorides of the formulas NH 4UCl 4 · 4H 2O and CsUCl 4 · 3H 2O have been recorded at 4.2 K in the 4000-26 000 cm -1 range. The analysis of the spectra enabled the determination of crystal-field parameters and assignment of 83 and 77 crystal-field levels for the tetrahydrate and trihydrate, respectively. The energies of the levels were computed by applying a simplified angular overlap model as well as a semiempirical Hamiltonian representing the combined atomic and crystal-field interactions. Ab initio calculations have enabled the application of a simplified parameterization and the determination of the starting values of the AOM parameters. The received results have proved that the AOM approach can quite well predict both the structure of the ground multiplet and the positions of the crystal-field levels in the 17 000-25 000 cm -1 range, usually obscured by strong f-d bands.

Polynuclear compounds of uranium: structure, reactivity and properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mougel, V.

2012-01-01

The study and comprehension of actinide's fundamental chemistry have important implications both for the development of new nuclear fuel and for the nuclear fuel reprocessing. One of the major issues in these processes is the ease of uranium to undergo redox reactions and to form polynuclear assemblies, which largely perturb these processes. However, despite their relevance, only few synthetic routes towards polynuclear uranium assemblies are described in the literature, and most of the polynuclear complexes reported are formed by serendipity rather than by rational design. Moreover, polynuclear uranium compounds are highly promising for the design of magnetic materials with improved properties and for reactivity studies. The aim of this work is the synthesis of polynuclear uranium complexes and the study of their reactivity and coordination properties. New synthetic routes to uranium polynuclear assemblies were developed and the study of their physico-chemical properties was carried out. The first approach investigated was based on pentavalent uranyl chemistry. Uranyl(V) is known to form aggregates via an interaction between uranyl moieties often named cation-cation interaction, but the isolation of uranyl(V) complexes had been largely limited by its ease of disproportionation. We isolated the first stable uranyl(V) polynuclear assembly using Salen-type Schiff base ligand. Based on this result, a fine tuning of the ligand and counter-ion properties resulted in the isolation of a large family of uranyl(V) polynuclear assemblies and in a better understanding of the parameters ruling their stability. Moreover, rare examples of clear antiferromagnetic couplings were observed with these complexes. In addition, this synthetic path was used to build the first 5f-3d cluster presenting single molecule magnet properties. The second approach used in this thesis consisted in the synthesis of oxo/hydroxo uranium clusters. The controlled hydrolysis of trivalent uranium in

Coupled cationic and anionic method of separating uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sundar, P.; Elikan, L.; Lyon, W.L.

1976-01-01

Uranium is separated from contaminating metal ions in an aqueous feed liquor containing the uranyl ion. The liquor is extracted with a first, noninterfering, water-immiscible, organic solvent containing a reagent which reacts with the uranyl ion to form a complex soluble in the organic solvent. The organic solvent is scrubbed with water if necessary, then stripped with a stripping liquor of an aqueous sulfuric acid liquor having a pH of about 0.5 to about 6 containing a reducing ion or an aqueous carbonate solution having a pH of about 8 to about 9. If the sulfuric acid liquor is used the stripped uranous ion is oxidized and the sulfuric acid liquor is diluted to prevent the precipitation of a uranium complex. The stripping liquor is extracted with an amine liquor comprising a second, noninterfering, water-immiscible, organic solvent and a tertiary or quaternary amine. The amine liquor is stripped with an ammonium carbonate solution to precipitate a uranium complex. The uranium complex is filtered off and may be calcined to produce U 3 O 8 or UO 2 . 38 claims, 1 figure

Uranium Conversion & Enrichment

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Karpius, Peter Joseph [Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)

2017-02-06

The isotopes of uranium that are found in nature, and hence in ‘fresh’ Yellowcake’, are not in relative proportions that are suitable for power or weapons applications. The goal of conversion then is to transform the U₃O₈ yellowcake into UF₆. Conversion and enrichment of uranium is usually required to obtain material with enough ²³⁵U to be usable as fuel in a reactor or weapon. The cost, size, and complexity of practical conversion and enrichment facilities aid in nonproliferation by design.

World uranium resources

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Deffeyes, K.S.; MacGregor, I.D.

1980-01-01

To estimate the total resource availability of uranium, the authors' approach has been to ask whether the distribution of uranium in the earth's crust can be reasonably approximated by a bell-shaped log-normal curve. In addition they have asked whether the uranium deposits actually mined appear to be a portion of the high-grade tail, or ascending slope, of the distribution. This approach preserves what they feel are the two most important guiding principles of Hubbert's work, for petroleum, namely recognizing the geological framework that contains the deposits of interest and examining the industry's historical record of discovering those deposits. Their findings, published recently in the form of a book-length report prepared for the US Department of Energy, suggest that for uranium the crustal-distribution model and the mining-history model can be brought together in a consistent picture. In brief, they conclude that both sets of data can be described by a single log-normal curve, the smoothly ascending slope of which indicates approximately a 300-fold increase in the amount of uranium recoverable for each tenfold decrease in ore grade. This conclusion has important implications for the future availability of uranium. They hasten to add, however, that this is only an approximative argument; no rigorous statistical basis exists for expecting a log-normal distribution. They continue, pointing out the enormously complex range of geochemical behavior of uranium - and its wide variety of different binds of economic deposit. Their case study, supported by US mining records, indicates that the supply of uranium will not be a limiting factor in the development of nuclear power

Surface complexation models for uranium adsorption in the sub-surface environment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Payne, T.E.

2007-01-01

Adsorption experiments with soil component minerals under a range of conditions are being used to develop models of uranium(VI) uptake in the sub-surface environment. The results show that adsorption of U on iron oxides and clay minerals is influenced by chemical factors including the pH, partial pressure of CO 2 , and the presence of ligands such as phosphate. Surface complexation models (SCMs) can be used to simulate U adsorption on these minerals. The SCMs are based on plausible mechanistic assumptions and describe the experimental data more adequately than Kd values or sorption isotherms. It is conceptually possible to simulate U sorption data on complex natural samples by combining SCMs for individual component minerals. This approach was used to develop a SCM for U adsorption to mineral assemblages from Koongarra (Australia), and produced a reasonable description of U uptake. In order to assess the applicability of experimental data to the field situation, in-situ measurements of U distributions between solid and liquid phases were undertaken at the Koongarra U deposit. This field partitioning data showed a satisfactory agreement with laboratory sorption data obtained under comparable conditions. (author)

77 FR 51579 - Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium

Science.gov (United States)

2012-08-24

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium Pursuant.... Complex, July 30, 2012, August Uranium (93.35%). uranium-235 high-enriched 1, 2012, XSNM3726, 11006037. contained in 7.5 uranium in the kilograms uranium. form of broken metal to the Atomic Energy of Canada...

Contribution to the study of the hydrolysis of uranium carbides (1963); Contribution a l'etude de l'hydrolyse des carbures d'uranium (1963)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Spitz, J [Commisariat a l' Energie Atomique, Grenoble (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1963-06-15

The hydrolysis of uranium monocarbide in neutral or acid medium leads to the formation of a complex mixture of hydrogen and hydrocarbons mostly saturated. When UC-U alloys are dissolved in hydrochloric-phosphoric medium, the free uranium contents can be determined with good accuracy from the composition of the gaseous phase. The hydrolysis of mixtures of uranium mono - and dicarbide in neutral or acid medium, leads to the formation of a complex mixture of hydrogen and gaseous and condensed hydrocarbons, the composition of which is principally dependent upon the UC{sub 2} content. The reaction mechanisms which are presented in this paper for the hydrolysis of UC and UC{sub 2} provide account for all experimental observations. (author) [French] L'hydrolyse en milieu neutre ou acide du monocarbure d'uranium conduit a la formation d'un melange complexe d'hydrogene et d'hydrocarbures, satures en grande majorite. L'attaque en milieu chlorhydrique-phosphorique des alliages UC-U permet la determination avec une bonne precision, des teneurs en uranium libre a partir de la composition des gaz degages. L'hydrolyse en milieu neutre ou acide des melanges de mono - et dicarbure d'uranium conduit a la formation d'un melange complexe d'hydrogene et d'hydrocarbures gazeux et condenses, dont la composition est essentiellement fonction de la teneur en UC{sub 2}. Les mecanismes reactionnels proposes pour l'hydrolyse de UC et UC{sub 2} rendent compte de tous les faits experimentaux observes. (auteur)

Preparation and characterization of uranium alkoxides through oxidation of uranium metal

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gordon, P.L.; Sauer, N.N.; Burns, C.J.; Watkin, J.G.; Van Der Sluys, W.G.

1993-01-01

Currently the authors are investigating the preparation of halide-containing uranium alkoxides by simultaneous halogen and alcohol oxidation of uranium metal. They recently reported the formation of U 2 I 4 (O-i-Pr) 4 (HO-i-Pr) 2 which upon addition of excess isopropanol forms UI 2 (O-i-Pr) 2 (HO-i-Pr) 2 . They report further characterization and reactivity for this monomeric species. Attempts to prepare similar complexes are being made using chlorine gas in the presence of other alcohols. They describe this ongoing research

Solution of environmental protection problems and complex utilization of raw materials during mining and processing of uranium ores

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Litvinenko, V.G.; Savva, P.P.

1993-01-01

Consideration is given to the complex of measures taken in Priargunsky industrial mine-chemical association and directed to environment protection, complex utilization of raw materials during mining and processing of uranium ores. These measures include: 1) reduction of toxic chemical agent effluents into atmosphere due to introduction of new methods and gas cleaning systems; 2) rational use of water resources owing to application of circulating water supply systems, waste waters treatment and effective control of the state of water consumption by industrial enterprises; 3) utilization of gangue and industrial solid wastes

On the interaction of uranium with the bioligands citric acid and glucose

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Steudtner, Robin

2011-01-01

For a better understanding of the actinide behaviour in human (in term of metabolism, retention, excretion) and in geological and biological systems, it is of prime importance to have a good knowledge of the relevant speciation. In model systems the chemical behaviour of uranium regarding complex formation and redox reaction were investigated. On this basis determinates thermodynamics constants and redox behaviour are used to prognoses a safety assessment for the respective system. The pentavalent uranium(V) is a metastable intermediate in natural redox system between uranium(IV) and uranium(VI). In this study the uranium(V) fluorescence was detected by laser spectroscopic methods (λ ex = 255 nm) for the first time. The peak maxima (λ ex = 255 nm) of luminescence spectrum of the photo reduced U(V) in aqueous perchlorate/2-propanol solution was detected at 440 nm and a fluorescence lifetime of 1.1 ± 0.02 μs was calculated. The stable aqueous uranyl(V)-tricarbonate complex was characterized by fluorescence spectroscopy (λ ex = 255 nm and 408 nm). The known quench effects of carbonate could be minimized by coupling the laser fluorescence system with the low temperature technique. The resulting U(V) fluorescence emission bands were detected between 375 nm and 445 nm. The peak maxima were identified at 401.5 nm (λ ex = 255 nm) and 413.0 nm (λ ex = 408 nm). The fluorescence lifetime of the uranyl(V)-carbonate species was determined at 153 K as 120 ± 0.1 μs (λ ex = 255 nm). In addition the fluorescence of uranium(V) was verifies by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The oxidation process from uranium(IV) to uranium(VI) was investigated on solid uraninite (UO 2 ) and uranium(IV) tetra chloride (UCl 4 ) and a 1 x 10 -2 M uranium(IV) sulphate (U IV SO 4 ) solution. By continuous oxygen transfer the uranium(IV) was oxidized slowly to uranium(VI). The temporal process was studied by the confocal laser scanning microscopy using an excitation wavelength of 408 nm. The

Catalytic properties and dynamic behaviour of uranium complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Le Marechal, J.F.

1986-01-01

The catalytic properties of organometallic uranium III and IV compounds in solution as well as reaction mechanisms are studied. The structure in solution of CpUCl 3 L 2 (L=THF, HMPA, OPPh 3 , OP(OR) 3 ) is investigated. When L=HMPA, the complex exists in two isomers in equilibrium with the L ligands either in trans or mer-cis configuration. The isomerization (Ea=92 kJ mol -1 ) as well as the bimolecular exchange with an outer sphere ligand L are observable in 1 H and 31 P NMR, and quantified with the spin saturation transfer technique in several solvents and at different temperatures between 230 and 330 K. This property is extended to other ligands. The compound U(AlH 4 ) 3 is synthetized. This compound catalyses the hydroalumination of olefins by LiAlH 4 with a very good anti-Markovnikov regioselectivity. A simple mechanism for this reaction is suggested. The reactions of the organoaluminates products with several reactants (D 2 O, I 2 , CH 2 O, Allyl-Br...) has been shown to be a powerful synthetic tool. Some specific alkenes and alkynes exhibit an interesting behaviour as dimerization or β-alkyl elimination which is easily interpreted by our mechanism [fr

Bioremediation of uranium contaminated Fernald soils

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Delwiche, M.E.; Wey, J.E.; Torma, A.E.

1994-01-01

This study investigated the use of microbial bioleaching for removal of uranium from contaminated soils. The ability of bacteria to assist in oxidation and solubilization of uranium was compared to the ability of fungi to produce complexing compounds which have the same effect. Biosorption of uranium by fungi was also measured. Soil samples were examined for changes in mineralogical properties due to these processes. On the basis of these laboratory scale studies a generalized flow sheet is proposed for bioremediation of contaminated Fernald soils

Spectroscopy and chemistry of uranium IV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Folcher, G.; Rigny, P.

1980-06-01

Different fundamental research papers on uranium IV are presented, some were never edited. Molecular spectroscopy was used for identification and structural study of uranium IV in aqueous or organic solutions. The fields studied are: coordination, stereochemistry, electronic structure and chemical properties. For interpretation of results some studies were made with solid compounds or with thorium compounds or thorium complexes. Knowledge of actinides chemistry is improved, uranium and thorium being models for 5 f ions, extractive chemistry is better understood and new applications are possible [fr

Full production approaching at Rossing Uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anon.

1978-01-01

The Rossing uranium mine, in South West Africa's Namib Desert, is an extraordinary operation by any standards. The open pit mining operation; the highly complex metallurgical plant that, unlike those at mines in South Africa extracts the uranium as far as the uranium oxide or yellowcake product; the back-up services; and the team of people who run Rossing were all seen in action on a recent visit by Coal Gold and Base Minerals. This article examines the geology, the initial exploration and the open pit

Influence of Uranium on Bacterial Communities: A Comparison of Natural Uranium-Rich Soils with Controls

Science.gov (United States)

Mondani, Laure; Benzerara, Karim; Carrière, Marie; Christen, Richard; Mamindy-Pajany, Yannick; Février, Laureline; Marmier, Nicolas; Achouak, Wafa; Nardoux, Pascal; Berthomieu, Catherine; Chapon, Virginie

2011-01-01

This study investigated the influence of uranium on the indigenous bacterial community structure in natural soils with high uranium content. Radioactive soil samples exhibiting 0.26% - 25.5% U in mass were analyzed and compared with nearby control soils containing trace uranium. EXAFS and XRD analyses of soils revealed the presence of U(VI) and uranium-phosphate mineral phases, identified as sabugalite and meta-autunite. A comparative analysis of bacterial community fingerprints using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) revealed the presence of a complex population in both control and uranium-rich samples. However, bacterial communities inhabiting uraniferous soils exhibited specific fingerprints that were remarkably stable over time, in contrast to populations from nearby control samples. Representatives of Acidobacteria, Proteobacteria, and seven others phyla were detected in DGGE bands specific to uraniferous samples. In particular, sequences related to iron-reducing bacteria such as Geobacter and Geothrix were identified concomitantly with iron-oxidizing species such as Gallionella and Sideroxydans. All together, our results demonstrate that uranium exerts a permanent high pressure on soil bacterial communities and suggest the existence of a uranium redox cycle mediated by bacteria in the soil. PMID:21998695

Bioremediation of uranium contaminated soils and wastes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Francis, A.J.

1998-01-01

Contamination of soils, water, and sediments by radionuclides and toxic metals from uranium mill tailings, nuclear fuel manufacturing and nuclear weapons production is a major concern. Studies of the mechanisms of biotransformation of uranium and toxic metals under various microbial process conditions has resulted in the development of two treatment processes: (1) stabilization of uranium and toxic metals with reduction in waste volume and (2) removal and recovery of uranium and toxic metals from wastes and contaminated soils. Stabilization of uranium and toxic metals in wastes is accomplished by exploiting the unique metabolic capabilities of the anaerobic bacterium, Clostridium sp. The radionuclides and toxic metals are solubilized by the bacteria directly by enzymatic reductive dissolution, or indirectly due to the production of organic acid metabolites. The radionuclides and toxic metals released into solution are immobilized by enzymatic reductive precipitation, biosorption and redistribution with stable mineral phases in the waste. Non-hazardous bulk components of the waste volume. In the second process uranium and toxic metals are removed from wastes or contaminated soils by extracting with the complexing agent citric acid. The citric-acid extract is subjected to biodegradation to recover the toxic metals, followed by photochemical degradation of the uranium citrate complex which is recalcitrant to biodegradation. The toxic metals and uranium are recovered in separate fractions for recycling or for disposal. The use of combined chemical and microbiological treatment process is more efficient than present methods and should result in considerable savings in clean-up and disposal costs

Uranium Isotopes as a Tracer of Groundwater Evolution in the Complexe Terminal Aquifer of Southern Tunisia

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hadj Ammar, F. [Laboratory of Radio-Analysis and Environment, National School of Engineering of Sfax, Sfax (Tunisia); Centre Europeen de Recherche et d' Enseignement de Geosciences de l' Environnement, Aix en Provence (France); Deschamps, P.; Hamelin, B. [Centre Europeen de Recherche et d' Enseignement de Geosciences de l' Environnement, Aix en Provence (France); Chkir, N.; Zouari, K. [Laboratory of Radio-Analysis and Environment, National School of Engineering of Sfax, Sfax (Tunisia)

2013-07-15

The Complexe Terminal (CT) aquifer system is the main water supply for remote areas of southern Tunisia. Its exploitation has resulted in significant draw-down of the water table. The CT aquifer is a multilayered aquifer lodged in Miocene sand deposits, Senonian limestones and Turonian carbonates. Little is known about the relationships and exchanges between the different layers. Here, uranium isotopic measurements carried out in groundwater samples from the CT aquifer are presented in order to constrain models for mixing of water masses, water-rock interaction and groundwater flow. Analyses were performed using a VG54 (TIMS) at the CEREGE. Results indicate a range in {sup 238}U concentration and {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U activity ratios of 1.5 to 8 ppb and 1.1 to 3.2 respectively. Together with major and trace analyses, uranium isotopic compositions provide important insights into the factors controlling the chemical evolution of groundwater and shows very distinct patterns between carbonate and sandstone layers. (author)

Investigations on uranium sorption on bentonite and montmorillonite, respectively, and uranium in environmental samples; Untersuchungen zur Uransorption an Bentonit bzw. Montmorillonit sowie von Uran in Umweltproben

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Azeroual, Mohamed

2010-09-22

The geotechnical barrier is an important component of a geological repository and consists of compacted bentonite surrounding radioactive waste containers. Its most important functions are, to retard the radionuclide migration into the biosphere and to prevent groundwater contact with containers. lt is therefore of central importance to investigate the bentonite material on its capacity to sorb radionuclides under near-natural chemical and physical conditions. The purpose of this work was to study the adsorption of uranium(VI) on bentonit and on montmorillonite-standards at high uranium concentrations. Thereby, a special account was given to the calcium-uranyl-carbonate complexation, which leads to the formation of very stable and mobile uncharged Ca{sub 2}UO{sub 2}(CO{sub 3}){sub 3} complex. Results of batch experiments showed that the dicalcium-uranyl-tricarbonate complexation lowers the uranium(VI) sorption on natural clay (bentonite) by a factor of up to 3. After 21 days of contact time, about 40 % and 20 % of the initial uranium(VI)concentration were sorbed on Na-bentonite and ea-bentonite, respectively, from a solution with Ca{sub 2}UO{sub 2}(CO{sub 3}){sub 3} dominating the uranium(VI) speciation. On the contrary, about 55 % of the initial uranium(VI)-concentration were sorbed on thes clays from the solution, in which (UO{sub 2}){sub 2}CO{sub 3}(OH){sub 3}{sup -} complex dominated the uranium(VI) speciation. Thus uranium(VI) sorption is more strongly influenced by the solution composition than by bentonite type. Na-bentonite should be used instead of ea-bentonite as a geotechnical barrier, since calcium-uranyl-carbonate complexation may be a realistic scenario. Further SEM-EDX and HREM-EDX studies showed that uranium(VI) sorption occurred predominantly on montmorillonite, which is the main component of bentonite. Uranium(VI) sorption on bentonite's accessory Minerals (pyrite, calcite, mica, and feldspar) was not observed. Investigation of uranium

Formation of Aqueous MgUO2(CO3)32- Complex and Uranium Anion Exchange Mechanism onto an Exchange Resin

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dong, Wenming; Brooks, Scott C

2008-01-01

The formation of and stability constants for aqueous Mg-UO2-CO3 complexes were determined using an anion exchange method. Magnesium concentration was varied (up to 20 mmol/L) at constant ionic strength (I = 0.101, 0.202, 0.304, 0.406, and 0.509 mol/kg NaNO3), pH = 8.1, total [U(VI)] = 10.4 mol/L under equilibrium with atmospheric CO2. The results indicate that only the MgUO2(CO3)32- complex is formed. The cumulative formation constant extrapolated to zero ionic strength is similar regardless of the activity correction convention used: log = 25.8 b 0.5 using Davies equation and = 25.02 b 0.08 using specific ion interaction theory (SIT). Uranium sorption onto the exchange resin decreased in the presence of Mg putatively due to the formation of MgUO2(CO3)32- that had a lower affinity for the resin than UO2(CO3)34-. Uranium sorption results are consistent with an equivalent anion exchange reaction between NO3- and UO2(CO3)34- species to retain charge neutrality regardless of Mg concentration. No Mg was associated with the anion exchange resin indicating that the MgUO2(CO3)32- complex did not sorb

Study of new complexes of uranium and comba radical. I.- Complexes defective in sodium carbonate; Estudio de nuevos complejos entre el uranio y el radical CDMBA. I. Complejos con defectos de carbonato sodico

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vera Palomino, J; Galiano Sedano, J A; Parellada Bellod, R; Bellido Gonzalez, A

1975-07-01

Some complexes formed in presence of defect of sodium carbonate with respect to the stoichiometric ratio (U): (C0{sub 3}) = 1:3 are studied. This ratio corresponds to the main complex which is responsible for the uranium extraction with CDMBAC organic solutions and from U(VI) aqueous solutions with an excess of sodium carbonate. (Author) 10 refs.

Contribution to the study of uranium migration and some trace elements in solution from Pocos de Caldas uranium mining

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zenaro, R.

1989-01-01

It was studied the chemical composition of ground water from four boreholes as a contribution to the hydrogeochemical studies in the Pocos de Caldas uranium mining. Methods for water analyses were selected and optimized in order to determine the main anions, specially the ones which form stable complexes with uranium ions. Fluoride and chloride were determined by potentiometry; phosphate, nitrate and silicate by spectrophotometry. Cations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry flame emission and argon plasma emission excited by continuous current arch (DCP). Uranium was determined by fluorimetry with a concentration range from 3 to 7 ppb and its distribution calculated among the different species into solution through the measures of pH, Eh, anion amounts and stability of their respective complexes. (author) [pt

Dissolution of metallic uranium and its alloys. Part II. Screening study results: Identification of an effective non-thermal uranium dissolution method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Laue, C.A.; Gates-Anderson, D.; Fitch, T.E.

2004-01-01

Screening experiments were performed to evaluate reagent systems that deactivate pyrophoric, metallic depleted uranium waste streams at ambient temperature. The results presented led to the selection of two systems, which would be investigated further, for the design of the LLNL onsite treatment process of metallic depleted uranium wastes. The two feasible systems are: (a) 7.5 mol/l H 2 SO 4 - 1 mol/l HNO 3 and (b) 3 mol/l HCl - 1 mol/l H 3 PO 4 . The sulfuric acid system dissolves uranium metal completely, while the hydrochloric-phosphoric acid system converts the metal completely into a solid, which might be suitable for direct disposal. Both systems combine oxidation of metallic uranium with complexation of the uranium ions formed to effectively deactivate uranium.s pyrophoricity at ambient temperature. (author)

78 FR 33448 - Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium

Science.gov (United States)

2013-06-04

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium Pursuant.... Security Complex, May 13, Uranium (93.35%). uranium-235 at the National 2013, May 21, 2013, XSNM3745, contained in 7.5 Research Universal 11006098. kilograms reactor in Canada for uranium. ultimate use in...

The uranium behaviour during rock-water interaction in the granites from the Itu complex (Sao Paulo, Brazil): a laboratory study

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silva, Helen S.B. da; Marques, Leila S.; Kawauchi, Roberto K., E-mail: leila@iag.usp.br, E-mail: keiji@iag.usp.br [Instituto de Astronomia, Geofisica e Ciencias Atmosfericas. Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), SP (Brazil)

2011-07-01

In order to elucidate the mechanisms involved in the process of uranium leaching due to the rock-water interaction in the granitic rocks from Itu Complex (Sao Paulo, Brazil), an experimental arrangement was developed and built. About 2.5kg of crushed rock fragments from Cabreuva and Indaiatuba Intrusions were maintained at room temperature within a glass flask filled with circulating water. The percolating water was removed periodically (from 10 to 30 days) for uranium analysis and then replaced by an equal volume of fresh water. Alpha spectrometry was used to determine the activity concentrations of {sup 234}U and {sup 238}U, and {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U activity ratios, of the waters as well as of the granites. The results for both samples showed that most of the uranium is leached in the first days after the contact between rock and water. The {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U activity ratios were significantly greater than unity, indicating radioactive disequilibrium between those isotopes, probably due to alpha recoil. Although the uranium activity concentrations in the water samples diminished with the increasing of time, it was not observed considerable variations of the {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U activity ratios. It was also noticed that, the amount of leached uranium as well as the {sup 234}U/{sup 238}U activity ratios are characteristics of each sample submitted to leaching, reflecting the differences of the granite facies mineralogy.(author)

Temperature Dependence of Uranium and Vanadium Adsorption on Amidoxime-Based Adsorbents in Natural Seawater

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kuo, Li-Jung [Marine Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Sequim WA 98382 USA; Gill, Gary A. [Marine Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Sequim WA 98382 USA; Tsouris, Costas [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge TN 37831 USA; Rao, Linfeng [Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley CA 94720 USA; Pan, Horng-Bin [Department of Chemistry, University of Idaho, Moscow ID 83844 USA; Wai, Chien M. [Department of Chemistry, University of Idaho, Moscow ID 83844 USA; Janke, Christopher J. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge TN 37831 USA; Strivens, Jonathan E. [Marine Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Sequim WA 98382 USA; Wood, Jordana R. [Marine Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Sequim WA 98382 USA; Schlafer, Nicholas [Marine Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Sequim WA 98382 USA; D' Alessandro, Evan K. [Rosensteil School of Marine and Atmospheric Chemistry, University of Miami, Miami FL 33149 USA

2018-01-16

The apparent enthalpy and entropy of the complexation of uranium (VI) and vanadium (V) with amidoxime ligands grafted onto polyethylene fiber was determined using time series measurements of adsorption capacities in natural seawater at three different temperatures. The complexation of uranium was highly endothermic, while the complexation of vanadium showed minimal temperature sensitivity. Amidoxime-based polymeric adsorbents exhibit significantly increased uranium adsorption capacities and selectivity in warmer waters.

Uranium ore deposits: geology and processing implications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Belyk, C.L.

2010-01-01

There are fifteen accepted types of uranium ore deposits and at least forty subtypes readily identified around the world. Each deposit type has a unique set of geological characteristics which may also result in unique processing implications. Primary uranium production in the past decade has predominantly come from only a few of these deposit types including: unconformity, sandstone, calcrete, intrusive, breccia complex and volcanic ones. Processing implications can vary widely between and within the different geological models. Some key characteristics of uranium deposits that may have processing implications include: ore grade, uranium and gangue mineralogy, ore hardness, porosity, uranium mineral morphology and carbon content. Processing difficulties may occur as a result of one or more of these characteristics. In order to meet future uranium demand, it is imperative that innovative processing approaches and new technological advances be developed in order that many of the marginally economic traditional and uneconomic non-traditional uranium ore deposits can be exploited. (author)

Petrology, mineralogy and geochemistry of surficial uranium deposits

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pagel, M.

1984-01-01

A comprehensive understanding of the petrology, mineralogy, and geochemistry of surficial uranium ore deposits is important for developing prospecting and evaluation strategies. Carnotite is the main uranium mineral and is found in those deposits that have the greatest potential uranium resources. The following uranium-bearing minerals have been reported to occur in surficial deposits: carnotite, tyuyamunite, soddyite, weeksite, haiweeite, uranophane, betauranophane, metaankoleite, torbernite, autunite, phosphuranylite, schroeckingerite, Pb-V-U hydroxide (unnamed mineral), uraninite and organourano complexes. The interrelationships between some of the minerals of the host rocks (especially the clays) are not well understood. (author)

Uranium in the black schists of Goesan (Ogcheon, Korea): relationships between organic matter and uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Trichet, J.; Chun-Hyuck, O.

1990-01-01

The uranium deposit of Goesan is polyphased: its genesis resulted from sedimentary, diagenetic and metamorphic processes which occurred from late Proterozoic (presumed age of the deposition of the black shales) to late Trias. By its geochemical characters, this deposit resulted from the affinity existing between uranium and organic matter. The latter had a role both through the formation of organo-metallic complexes and as a reducing agent of the metal during the diagenetic evolution. Beside these factors favourable to metal accumulation, the possible development of evaporitic conditions and tectono-metamorphic processes can also have played an important role in the reconcentration of uranium as well as other metals [fr

Extractive spectrophotometric determination of uranium with malachite green

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dubey, S.C.; Nadkarni, M.N.

1977-01-01

A sensitive spectrophotometric method based on the extraction of a uranium-benzoate-Malachite Green complex by chlorobenzene is described. The absorption maximum is at 635 nm and the molar absorptivity is 8.3 x 10 4 1. mole -1 cm -1 . A preliminary separation of uranium by extraction with methyl isobutyl ketone from acid-deficient aluminium nitrate solution is used to avoid interferences. An aliquot of the extract in then diluted with chlorobenzene and shaken with benzoate buffer containing Malachite Green (MG). The method has been applied for the determination of uranium in a synthetic leach solution. The complex extracted is probably [U0 2 (C 6 H 5 C00 3 - ][MG + ]. (author)

77 FR 73056 - Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium

Science.gov (United States)

2012-12-07

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium Pursuant... Complex. Uranium (93.2%). uranium-235 at CERCA AREVA Romans October 10, 2012 contained in 6.2 in France and to October 12, 2012 kilograms irradiate targets at XSNM3729 uranium. the BR-2 Research 11006053...

77 FR 73055 - Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium

Science.gov (United States)

2012-12-07

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium Pursuant.... Security Complex. Uranium uranium-235 at CERCA AREVA October 10, 2012 (93.35%). contained in Romans in France October 12, 2012 10.1 kilograms and to irradiate XSNM3730 uranium. targets at the HFR 11006054...

The role of uranium-arene bonding in H2O reduction catalysis

Science.gov (United States)

Halter, Dominik P.; Heinemann, Frank W.; Maron, Laurent; Meyer, Karsten

2018-03-01

The reactivity of uranium compounds towards small molecules typically occurs through stoichiometric rather than catalytic processes. Examples of uranium catalysts reacting with water are particularly scarce, because stable uranyl groups form that preclude the recovery of the uranium compound. Recently, however, an arene-anchored, electron-rich uranium complex has been shown to facilitate the electrocatalytic formation of H2 from H2O. Here, we present the precise role of uranium-arene δ bonding in intermediates of the catalytic cycle, as well as details of the atypical two-electron oxidative addition of H2O to the trivalent uranium catalyst. Both aspects were explored by synthesizing mid- and high-valent uranium-oxo intermediates and by performing comparative studies with a structurally related complex that cannot engage in δ bonding. The redox activity of the arene anchor and a covalent δ-bonding interaction with the uranium ion during H2 formation were supported by density functional theory analysis. Detailed insight into this catalytic system may inspire the design of ligands for new uranium catalysts.

Biological adsorbent for water decontamination from uranium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jilek, R [Vyzkumny Ustav Veterinarniho Lekarstvi, Brno-Medlanky (Czechoslovakia); Fuska, J; Nemec, P [Slovenska Vysoka Skola Technicka, Bratislava (Czechoslovakia). Chemickotechnologicka Fakulta

1978-01-01

A study was made into the capacity of native and heat-denaturated mycelium to adsorb uranium salts from solutions and into the effect of uranium on the growth of the microorganism biomass. The presence of uranium did not inhibit the growth of Penicillium and Aspergillus strains used at a concentration of up to 5x10/sup -4/ M/dm/sup 3/. Uranium added to a nutrient medium produced complexes with phosphorus ions which were adsorbed on the surface of growing hyphae, thus the removal of the mycelium also removed uranium. The results of the experiments with denaturated mycelium of the same strains suggested that uranium was also bound to the biomass with chemical bonds so that mycelium acted as a ''multifunction ion exchanger'' from which adsorbed uranium can be removed step by step by elution. A sorbent of a three-dimensional structure could be prepared from a dried native mycelium using reinforcing resins, which prevented leakage of the biomass. Uranium sorption by biosorbents is a function of the concentration of the cation sorbed and of the pH of the solution.

Biological adsorbent for water decontamination from uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jilek, R.; Fuska, J.; Nemec, P.

1978-01-01

A study was made into the capacity of native and heat-denaturated mycelium to adsorb uranium salts from solutions and into the effect of uranium on the growth of the microorganism biomass. The presence of uranium did not inhibit the growth of Penicillium and Aspergillus strains used at a concentration of up to 5x10 -4 M/dm 3 . Uranium added to a nutrient medium produced complexes with phosphorus ions which were adsorbed on the surface of growing hyphae, thus the removal of the mycelium also removed uranium. The results of the experiments with denaturated mycelium of the same strains suggested that uranium was also bound to the biomass with chemical bonds so that mycelium acted as a ''multifunction ion exchanger'' from which adsorbed uranium can be removed step by step by elution. A sorbent of a three-dimensional structure could be prepared from a dried native mycelium using reinforcing resins, which prevented leakage of the biomass. Uranium sorption by biosorbents is a function of the concentration of the cation sorbed and of the pH of the solution. (author)

On medicative application of complexons in the case of uranium intoxication

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ivannikov, A.T.

1987-01-01

The report deals with the problem of accelerating the uranium elimination from the body in the light of present knowledge. Based on data available in the literature and obtained by the author, effects of sodium bicarbonate, complexons (polyamine-polycarbonic acids) and their phosphonic analogues - polyamine-polyalkyl-phosphonic acids (AMPAs) in the case of uranium intoxication have been analysed. Thus, sodium bicarbonate recommended by the ICRP and IAEA as a remedy for uranium intoxication produces some adverse action reducing its efficiency, while warning against complexons because of risk for kidneys proved to be unjustified. Experimental evidence presented demonstrates conclusively that AMPAs are the most efficient complexing agents for uranium binding and eliminating from the body, essentially superior to complexons due to greater stability constants of AMPA with uranyl ion. AMPAs form stable protonated complexes with uranyl ion which are resistant to acid medium typical of certain kidney parts, so that decomposition of these complexes and deposition of uranium are prevented, thus lowering risk for kidneys. This compares favourably with sodium bicarbonate whose complex with uranyl ion is rather unstable at low pH values. An AMPA compound, Na 6 Ca 2 -diethylene-triamine-pentamethyl- phosphonic acid (the preparation called trimephacin), is adopted in the USSR as an antidote for uranium intoxication and proposed to be included into ICRP Recommendations. (author)

Activation of the C-H bond: catalytic hydroxylation of hydrocarbons by new cobaltic alkylperoxydic complexes; selective and catalytic cycloalkane dehydrogenation in presence of uranium for hydrogen transfer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brazi, E.

1987-01-01

The aim of the thesis is to improve efficiency and selectivity of chemical reactions for alkane transformations. In the first part decomposition of hydroperoxides and hydrocarbon hydroxylation by cobalt complexes is studied. In the second part cycloalkanes are dehydrogenated into aromatics with a Pt catalyst, trapping hydrogen by uranium. Uranium hydride UH 3 can yield very pure hydrogen at reasonable temperature [fr

Multisensor system for determination of iron(II), iron(III) and uranium(VI) in complex solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Legin, A.V.; Seleznev, B.L.; Rudnitskaya, A.M.; Vlasov, Yu.G.

1998-01-01

The aim of the present paper is the development and analytical evaluation of a multisensor system for determination of low content of iron(II), iron(III) and uranium(VI) in complex aqueous media. Sensor array included sensors on the basis of chalcogenide vitreous materials with redox and ionic cross-sensitivities, crystalline silver sulphide electrode, noble metal electrodes Pt, Au, Ag and redox sensor on the basis of oxide glass. Potentiometric measurements have been taken in a conventional electrochemical cell vs. a standard Ag/AgCl reference electrode. All measurements have been taken at room temperature. Calibration solutions contained UO 2 (NO 3 ) 2 in concentration range 10 -6 -1,610 -5 mol/L, K 3 Fe(CN) 6 and K 4 Fe(CN) 6 or FeSO 4 (NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 and FeCl 3 , with the ratio of Fe(II)/Fe(III) concentration from 100:1 to 1:100, the total concentration of Fe was 10 -4 and 10 -5 mol/L. All solutions have been made on the background electrolyte of calcium and magnesium chlorides and sulphates with the fixed content of 5-27 mmol/L of each component which is a typical one for groundwater or mining water. Sensor potentials have been processed by a back-propagation artificial neural net. Average error of determination of Fe(II) and Fe(III) is about 20 %, of uranium(VI) - 40 %. It was found that sensitivity of the sensor array to iron and uranium is irrespective of the chemical form of these species

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy measurements of uranium and thorium powders and uranium ore

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Judge, Elizabeth J. [Chemistry Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545 (United States); Barefield, James E., E-mail: jbarefield@lanl.gov [Chemistry Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545 (United States); Berg, John M. [Manufacturing Engineering and Technology Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545 (United States); Clegg, Samuel M.; Havrilla, George J.; Montoya, Velma M.; Le, Loan A.; Lopez, Leon N. [Chemistry Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545 (United States)

2013-05-01

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was used to analyze depleted uranium and thorium oxide powders and uranium ore as a potential rapid in situ analysis technique in nuclear production facilities, environmental sampling, and in-field forensic applications. Material such as pressed pellets and metals, has been extensively studied using LIBS due to the high density of the material and more stable laser-induced plasma formation. Powders, on the other hand, are difficult to analyze using LIBS since ejection and removal of the powder occur in the laser interaction region. The capability of analyzing powders is important in allowing for rapid analysis of suspicious materials, environmental samples, or trace contamination on surfaces since it most closely represents field samples (soil, small particles, debris etc.). The rapid, in situ analysis of samples, including nuclear materials, also reduces costs in sample collection, transportation, sample preparation, and analysis time. Here we demonstrate the detection of actinides in oxide powders and within a uranium ore sample as both pressed pellets and powders on carbon adhesive discs for spectral comparison. The acquired LIBS spectra for both forms of the samples differ in overall intensity but yield a similar distribution of atomic emission spectral lines. - Highlights: • LIBS analysis of mixed actinide samples: depleted uranium oxide and thorium oxide • LIBS analysis of actinide samples in powder form on carbon adhesive discs • Detection of uranium in a complex matrix (uranium ore) as a precursor to analyzing uranium in environmental samples.

redox reactions of uranium in the presence of potassium 2-phospho-17-tungstate

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maslov, L.P.; Rykov, A.G.; Sirotinkina, L.V.

1986-01-01

The redox reactions of uranium in the presence of potassium 2-phospho-17-tungstate (17W2P) - K 10 P 2 W 17 O 61 - were studied by the methods of spectrophotometry and potentiometry. It was established that in the presence of 17W2P the UO /SUP 2/2/ + ion is reduced by iron(II) to uranium(IV) as a result of the binding of U(IV) into a strong complex with composition (U(p 2 W 17 O 61 ) 2 ) 16- . The peculiarities of the coordination of uranium(IV) by voluminous 17W2P ligands are the cause of the different nature of its interaction with various types of oxidizing agents. It was established that under the action of oxidizing agents (K 2 Cr 2 O 7 , KMnO 4 ), the reduced form of which is a complex with 17W2P, there is a conversion of the complex of uranium(IV) to the corresponding complex of uranium(V), evidently with conservation of a structure analogous to that for uranium(IV). It was also shown that uranium(IV) in complex with 17W2P is practically not oxidized in the cold by persulfate ions which react according to a radical mechanism, whereas weaker oxidizing agents, for example, H 2 O 2 , oxidize it to the UO /SUP 2/2/ + ion. Hypotheses are advanced on the possible mechanisms of the occurrence of the corresponding reactions

Investigation of Artemisia tridentata as a biogeochemical uranium indicator

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Diebold, F E; McGrath, S [Montana Coll. of Mineral Science and Technology, Butte (USA)

1985-01-01

Hydroponic experiments were conducted with seedlings of Artemisia tridentata subsp. tridentata (big sagebrush) to test the effect of the phosphate speciation of uranium in solution on its uptake by big sagebrush. No single complex could be identified as being preferentially taken up by the plant, but the varying aqueous phosphate concentrations did affect uranium uptake by the plants at the higher uranium concentrations in solution. The data also substantiate the tendency for uranium to behave as an essential element in this plant species. The implications for the use of Artemisia tridentata as a biogeochemical uranium indicator are discussed.

Model of the coercion uranium hexafluoride on a human body

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Babenko, S.P.

2007-01-01

A method for calculating certain quantities characterizing the effect of uranium hexafluoride (UF 6 ) on the human body under industrial conditions in uranium enrichment plants is described. It is assumed that the effect is determined by uranium and fluorine inhaled together with the products of hydrolysis of uranium hexafluoride. The proposed complex model consists of three models, the first of which describes the contamination of the industrial environment and the second and third describe inhalation and percutaneous intake. A relation is obtained between uranium and fluorine intake and the uranium hexafluoride concentration in air at the moment the compound is discharged [ru

Can we predict uranium bioavailability based on soil parameters? Part 1: Effect of soil parameters on soil solution uranium concentration

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vandenhove, H.; Hees, M. van; Wouters, K.; Wannijn, J.

2007-01-01

Present study aims to quantify the influence of soil parameters on soil solution uranium concentration for 238 U spiked soils. Eighteen soils collected under pasture were selected such that they covered a wide range for those parameters hypothesised as being potentially important in determining U sorption. Maximum soil solution uranium concentrations were observed at alkaline pH, high inorganic carbon content and low cation exchange capacity, organic matter content, clay content, amorphous Fe and phosphate levels. Except for the significant correlation between the solid-liquid distribution coefficients (K d , L kg -1 ) and the organic matter content (R 2 = 0.70) and amorphous Fe content (R 2 = 0.63), there was no single soil parameter significantly explaining the soil solution uranium concentration (which varied 100-fold). Above pH = 6, log(K d ) was linearly related with pH [log(K d ) = - 1.18 pH + 10.8, R 2 = 0.65]. Multiple linear regression analysis did result in improved predictions of the soil solution uranium concentration but the model was complex. - Uranium solubility in soil can be predicted from organic matter or amorphous iron content and pH or with complex multilinear models considering several soil parameters

Uranium mining during the Cold War. The Wismut plant in the Soviet atomic complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boch, Rudolf; Karlsch, Rainer

2011-01-01

The book on the Wismut plant covers the following issues: Introduction: history of uranium mining of Wismut. Significance of uranium mining in politics and science: Uranium for the strategic equilibrium; the ore of the Cold War; special zones; ''Party within the Party'', radiation protection in uranium mining; Freiberg's geoscientists searching strategic metals in the 1940ies; end of the shift. Social history and daily routine: Good money for hard work; foreign among ''friends''; personnel data; gainful employment for women and emancipation in the frame of mining; from symphony orchestra to laymen circles; the fightning spirit of pitman-sportsmen.

Indirect determination of uranium by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry using an air-acetylene flame

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alder, J.F.; Das, B.C.

1977-01-01

An indirect method has been developed for the determination of uranium by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry using an air-acetylene flame. Use is made of the reduction of copper(II) by uranium(IV) followed by complex formation of the copper(I) ions so produced with neocuproine (2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline) and finally the determination of copper in this complex by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry. The results show that the method can be recommended, provided that care is taken to ensure the complete reduction of uranium(VI) to uranium(IV). The sensitivity of the method is 4.9 μg of uranium and the upper limit 500 μg without dilution. (author)

Uranium-contaminated soil pilot treatment study

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Turney, W.R.J.R.; Mason, C.F.V.; Michelotti, R.A.

1996-01-01

A pilot treatment study is proving to be effective for the remediation of uranium-contaminated soil from a site at the Los Alamos National Laboratory by use of a two-step, zero-discharge, 100% recycle system. Candidate uranium-contaminated soils were characterized for uranium content, uranium speciation, organic content, size fractionization, and pH. Geochemical computer codes were used to forecast possible uranium leach scenarios. Uranium contamination was not homogenous throughout the soil. In the first step, following excavation, the soil was sorted by use of the ThemoNuclean Services segmented gate system. Following the sorting, uranium-contaminated soil was remediated in a containerized vat leach process by use of sodium-bicarbonate leach solution. Leach solution containing uranium-carbonate complexes is to be treated by use of ion-exchange media and then recycled. Following the treatment process the ion exchange media will be disposed of in an approved low-level radioactive landfill. It is anticipated that treated soils will meet Department of Energy site closure guidelines, and will be given open-quotes no further actionclose quotes status. Treated soils are to be returned to the excavation site. A volume reduction of contaminated soils will successfully be achieved by the treatment process. Cost of the treatment (per cubic meter) is comparable or less than other current popular methods of uranium-contamination remediation

Determination of uranium in samples containing bulk aluminium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Das, S.K.; Kannan, R.; Dhami, P.S.; Tripathi, S.C.; Gandhi, P.M.

2015-01-01

The determination of uranium is of great importance in PUREX process and need to be analyzed at different concentration ranges depending on the stage of reprocessing. Various techniques like volumetry, spectrophotometry, ICP-OES, fluorimetry, mass spectrometry etc. are used for the measurement of uranium in these samples. Fast and sensitive methods suitable for low level detection of uranium are desirable to cater the process needs. Microgram quantities of uranium are analyzed by spectrophotometric method using 2-(5- bromo-2-pyridylazo-5-diethylaminophenol) (Br-PADAP) as the complexing agent. But, the presence of some of the metal ions viz. Al, Pu, Zr etc. interferes in its analysis. Therefore, separation of uranium from such interfering metal ions is required prior to its analysis. This paper describes the analysis of uranium in samples containing aluminium as major matrix

Geochemical methods for identification of formations being prospective for uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhukova, A.M.; Komarova, N.I.; Spiridonov, A.A.; Shor, G.M.

1985-01-01

Geochemical methods of uranium content evaluation in metamorphic, ultrametamorphic and sedimentary formations are considered. At that, the following four factors are of the highest importance: 1) average uranium content-geochemical background; 2) character of uranium distribution; 3) forms of uranium presence; 4) the value of thorium-uranium ratio. A complex of radiogeochemical criteria, favourable for uranium presence is formulated: high average background content of total and '' mobile''uranium and high value of variation coefficient (80-100% and above); low (approximately one or lower) thorium-uranium ratio; sharp increase in uranium concentration in accessory minerals. Radiogeochemical peculiarities of metamorphic and ultrametamorphic formations prospective for uranium are enumerated. The peculiarities condition specificity of geochemical prospecting methods. Prospecting methods first of all must be directed at the evaluation of radioelement distribution parameters and specification of the forms of their presence

Uranium recovery from phosphonitric solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bunus, F.T.; Miu, I.

1997-01-01

A new technology for uranium and rare earth recovery applied in a semi-industrial plant processing 5 m 3 /h phosphoric acid has been extended to phosphonitric solution, resulting in the process of nitric acid attack of phosphate rock for complex fertilizer production. In this process uranium and rare earths are obtained at larger quantities due to the complete dissolution of elements involved. The method is based on a one cycle extraction-stripping process using as extractants: di(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (DEPA) in mixture either with tri-n-butylphosphate (TBP) or tri-n-octylphosphine oxide (TOPO) in view of obtaining a synergic effect for U (VI). A mixer-settler extractor in four steps was used. Two stripping steps are involved for the elements mentioned. Before uranium stripping a scrubbing with urea was introduced to eliminate nitric acid extracted. Uranium was obtained as green cake (hydrated uranium tetrafluoride) which can be easily transformed in hexfluoride or converted to a diuranate. At the same time the radium is also eliminated leading to a non-radioactive fertilizer product. (author),. 8 refs, 4 figs

Investigation of adsorbers for the extracting of uranium from seawater

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Witte, E.G.; Astheimer, L.; Schenk, H.J.; Schwochau, K.

1979-01-01

Organic ion exchangers have been tested with respect to their efficiency uranium from seawater. A complexing polymer resin which combines fast uptake of uranium with high selectivity is found to be able to accumulate uranium from natural seawater by a factor of 2.6 x 10 5 . (orig.) 891 HK/orig. 892 MKO [de

Tetra- and hexavalent uranium forms bidentate-mononuclear complexes with particulate organic matter in a naturally uranium-enriched peatland

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mikutta, Christian; Langner, Peggy; Bargar, John R.; Kretzschmar, Ruben

2016-01-01

Peatlands frequently serve as efficient biogeochemical traps for U. Mechanisms of U immobilization in these organic matter-dominated environments may encompass the precipitation of U-bearing mineral(oid)s and the complexation of U by a vast range of (in)organic surfaces. The objective of this work was to investigate the spatial distribution and molecular binding mechanisms of U in soils of an alpine minerotrophic peatland (pH 4.7–6.6, E_h = –127 to 463 mV) using microfocused X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and bulk and microfocused U L_3-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The soils contained 2.3–47.4 wt % organic C, 4.1–58.6 g/kg Fe, and up to 335 mg/kg geogenic U. Uranium was found to be heterogeneously distributed at the micrometer scale and enriched as both U(IV) and U(VI) on fibrous and woody plant debris (48 ± 10% U(IV), x̄ ± σ, n = 22). Bulk U X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy revealed that in all samples U(IV) comprised 35–68% of total U (x̄ = 50%, n = 15). Shell-fit analyses of bulk U L_3-edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra showed that U was coordinated to 1.3 ± 0.2 C atoms at a distance of 2.91 ± 0.01 Å (x̄ ± σ), which implies the formation of bidentate-mononuclear U(IV/VI) complexes with carboxyl groups. We neither found evidence for U shells at ~3.9 Å, indicative of mineral-associated U or multinuclear U(IV) species, nor for a substantial P/Fe coordination of U. As a result, our data indicates that U(IV/VI) complexation by natural organic matter prevents the precipitation of U minerals as well as U complexation by Fe/Mn phases at our field site, and suggests that organically complexed U(IV) is formed via reduction of organic matter-bound U(VI).

Tetra- and Hexavalent Uranium Forms Bidentate-Mononuclear Complexes with Particulate Organic Matter in a Naturally Uranium-Enriched Peatland.

Science.gov (United States)

Mikutta, Christian; Langner, Peggy; Bargar, John R; Kretzschmar, Ruben

2016-10-04

Peatlands frequently serve as efficient biogeochemical traps for U. Mechanisms of U immobilization in these organic matter-dominated environments may encompass the precipitation of U-bearing mineral(oid)s and the complexation of U by a vast range of (in)organic surfaces. The objective of this work was to investigate the spatial distribution and molecular binding mechanisms of U in soils of an alpine minerotrophic peatland (pH 4.7-6.6, E h = -127 to 463 mV) using microfocused X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and bulk and microfocused U L 3 -edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The soils contained 2.3-47.4 wt % organic C, 4.1-58.6 g/kg Fe, and up to 335 mg/kg geogenic U. Uranium was found to be heterogeneously distributed at the micrometer scale and enriched as both U(IV) and U(VI) on fibrous and woody plant debris (48 ± 10% U(IV), x̅ ± σ, n = 22). Bulk U X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy revealed that in all samples U(IV) comprised 35-68% of total U (x̅ = 50%, n = 15). Shell-fit analyses of bulk U L 3 -edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra showed that U was coordinated to 1.3 ± 0.2 C atoms at a distance of 2.91 ± 0.01 Å (x̅ ± σ), which implies the formation of bidentate-mononuclear U(IV/VI) complexes with carboxyl groups. We neither found evidence for U shells at ∼3.9 Å, indicative of mineral-associated U or multinuclear U(IV) species, nor for a substantial P/Fe coordination of U. Our data indicates that U(IV/VI) complexation by natural organic matter prevents the precipitation of U minerals as well as U complexation by Fe/Mn phases at our field site, and suggests that organically complexed U(IV) is formed via reduction of organic matter-bound U(VI).

Thermoluminescence applied to uranium exploration and genesis of the Westmoreland uranium deposits - implications for the Northern Territory

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hochman, M.B.M.; Ypma, P.J.M.

1984-01-01

The Westmoreland uranium deposits occur on the northern flank of the Murphy Tectonic Ridge in the upper member of the Westmoreland Conglomerate. Uranium mineralisation is spatially associated with the contact of the overlying basaltic Siegal Volcanics and the margins of intrusive dolerite dykes which are geochemically similar to the Siegal Volcanics. Thermoluminescence measurements on 800 samples from within the orebodies and surrounding host rock have indicated that all of the Westmoreland Conglomerate has suffered major radiation damage attributable to at least 10 ppm uranium over 10 9 years. The underlying rhyolitic Mid Proterozoic Cliffdale Volcanics have distinctive TL glow curves indicative of radiation sensitisation caused by high uranium contents. These volcanics are part of the Mid Proterozoic volcanic event known to be enriched in uranium. The Westmoreland Conglomerate has been derived by erosion of the uranium-rich Cliffdale Volcanics and associated Nicholson Granite Complex which makes it likely that the Westmoreland Conglomerate had a high inherent uranium content. It is proposed that this precontained uranium within the Westmoreland Conglomerate was remobilized in a convective cell system possibly triggered by intrusion of dolerite dykes, or by a later rejuvenation of vertical structures which provided an ascending heat flow. Pitchblende was precipitated where suitable reducing conditions existed close to the basic volcanics and dykes

76 FR 72984 - Revised Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium

Science.gov (United States)

2011-11-28

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION Revised Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium The application for a license to export high-enriched Uranium has been revised as noted below. Notice... fabricate fuel France. Security Complex; October 18, Uranium (93.35%). uranium (174.0 elements in France...

Imouraren - uranium leaching tests and specificities with analcites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wattinne-Morice, A.; Belieres, M.

2010-01-01

Imouraren is a sedimentary uranium deposit (total > 150 000 tU, average U ~ 0.08 %), located in Niger (~ 100 km from Agadez). Uranium mineralization is trapped in sandstones and is widely oxidized (uranotyle, metatuyamunite), but a part remains reduced (pitchblende, uraninite). The sandstones have a peculiar mineralogical assemblage (analcite partly chloritized) which can affect uranium recovery. Several acid heap leaching tests have been completed to determine the most suitable process parameters. Microscopic studies and XRD analysis performed on fresh ore and on leached residue highlight the complex behavior of uranium and the associated mineralogical families during the tests. (author)

Application of ion exchange to isotope separation. 2. Isotope separation of uranium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Okamoto, Makoto; Fujii, Yasuhiko; Aida, Masao; Nomura, Masao; Aoyama, Taku

1985-10-01

Research work on the uranium isotope separation by ion exchange chromatography done by the ahthors was reviewed and summarized in the present paper. Specifically described are the determination of separation coefficients of uranium isotopes in various chemical systems involving uranium ions and complexes. The chemical systems are classifield into three main categories; (1) uranyl, U (VI), complex formation system, (2) uranous, U (IV), complex formation system and (3) U (IV) - U (VI) redox system. The redox system showed the largest separation coefficient of approx. 7 x 10/sup -4/, while the uranyl and uranous complex systems showed the separation coefficients of -- 2 x 10/sup -4/ and approx. 6 x 10/sup -5/, respectively.

Extractive spectrophotometric determination of uranium with malachite green

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dubey, S C; Nadkarni, M N [Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Bombay (India). Fuel Reprocessing Div.

1977-04-01

A sensitive spectrophotometric method based on the extraction of a uranium-benzoate-Malachite Green complex by chlorobenzene is described. The absorption maximum is at 635 nm and the molar absorptivity is 8.3 x 10/sup 4/1. mole /sup -1/ cm/sup -1/. A preliminary separation of uranium by extraction with methyl isobutyl ketone from acid-deficient aluminium nitrate solution is used to avoid interferences. An aliquot of the extract in then diluted with chlorobenzene and shaken with benzoate buffer containing Malachite Green (MG). The method has been applied for the determination of uranium in a synthetic leach solution. The complex extracted is probably (U0/sub 2/(C/sub 6/H/sub 5/C00/sub 3//sup -/)(MG/sup +/).

Extraction of bivalent vanadium as its pyridine thiocyanate complex and separation from uranium, titanium, chromium and aluminium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yatirajam, V.; Arya, S.P.

1975-01-01

A simple method is described for the extraction of V(II) as its pyridine thiocyanate complex. Vanadate is reduced to V(II) in 1 to 2 N sulphuric acid by zinc amalgam. Thiocyanate and pyridine are added, the solution is adjusted to pH 5.2 to 5.5 and the complex extracted with chloroform. The vanadium is back-extracted with peroxide solution. Zinc from the reductant accompanies the vanadium but alkali and alkaline earth metal ions, titanium, uranium, chromium and aluminium are separated, besides those ions reduced to the elements by zinc amalgam. The method takes about 20 min and is applicable to microgram as well as milligram amounts of vanadium. (author)

Uranium removal from organic solutions of PUREX process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dell'Occhio, L.A.; Dupetit, G.A.; Pascale, A.A.; Vicens, H.E.

1987-01-01

During the uranium extraction process with tributyl phosphate (TBP) in nitric medium, a bi solvated, non hydrated complex is formed, of formula UO2(NO3)2TBP, which is soluble in the diluent, a paraffin hydrocarbon. As it is known that some uranium salts, for instance the nitrate, when dissolved in organic solvents, like isopropanol, can be discharged as complex molecules at the cathode of an electrodeposition cell, it was decided to apply this technique to uranium loaded TBP solutions. From preliminary experiments resulted a practical possibility for the analytical control through the alpha measurement of electro deposits. This technique could be applied as well to the treatment of depleted organic streams carrying undesirable alpha activity, because the so treated solutions become deprived of uranium. This work presents the curves obtained working at constant voltage with uranium-loaded TBP solutions, the determination of the optimal operation voltage in these conditions, the electrodeposition yield for electro polished copper and stainless steel cathodes and the tests of reproducibility of deposits. A summary of the results obtained operating the high voltage supply at constant power is also presented. (Author)

Uranium electrocatalysis: The secret is in the ring

Science.gov (United States)

Mazzanti, Marinella

2018-03-01

An arene-anchored uranium complex has recently been shown to serve as efficient electrocatalyst for the conversion of water into dihydrogen. Now, the crucial role of the arene moiety in enabling catalytic activity -- unusual for uranium -- has been explored, providing important insight for the design of improved electrocatalysts.

Trivalent metallocene chemistry of some uranium, titanium, and zirconium complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lukens, W.W. Jr.

1995-05-01

Dicyclopentadienyluranium halide dimers have been prepared and their solution behavior examined. These molecules exist as dimers in solution, and the halide ligands undergo rapid site exchange on the NMR timescale above 50 C. Analogous dicyclopentadienyluranium hydroxide dimers have also been prepared; they oxidatively eliminate hydrogen to give the corresponding oxide dimers. Mechanism of this reaction is consistent with αmigration of one of the hydroxide hydrogen atoms to a uranium center followed by elimination of hydrogen. Ground state of [(Me 3 Si) 2 C 5 H 3 ] 3 M M = Nd, U and their base adducts has been examined by variable temperature magnetic susceptibility and EPR spectroscopy. The ground state is found to be 4 I 9/2 with a crystal field state consisting largely of J z = 1/2 lowest, in agreement with previous studies on tris-cyclopentadienylneodymium complexes. The zirconium metallocene Cp 3 Zr has been prepared, characterized crystallographically, and its reactivity studied. Its chemical behavior is controlled by presence of an electron in the non-bonding, d z 2 orbital which prevents formation of base adducts Of Cp 3 Zr, but allows Cp 3 Zr to abstract atoms from other molecules. Electonic and EPR spectra of Cp* 2 TiX complexes, where Cp* is Me 5 C 5 and X is a monodentate, anionic ligand such as halide, have been studied. A π-bonding spectrochemical series is developed, and trends in π-bonding ability are found similar to those in other inorganic complexes. The β-agostic interactions in Cp* 2 TiN(Me)Ph have been examined using variable temperature EPR spectroscopy, and the enthalpy/entropy of the interaction determined. In Cp* 2 TiEt, enthalpy of the β-agostic interaction is -1.9 kcal/mol. The titanocene anion, Cp* 2 TiLi(TMEDA) (TMEDA is N,N,N',N'-tetramethylethylenediamine), has been prepared and its structure determined

Biosorption of uranium by Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain CSU: Characterization and comparison studies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hu, M.Z.C.; Norman, J.M.; Faison, B.D.; Reeves, M.E.

1996-01-01

Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain CSU, a nongenetically engineered bacterial strain known to bind dissolved hexavalent uranium (as UO 2 2+ and/or its cationic hydroxo complexes) was characterized with respect to its sorptive activity. The uranium biosorption equilibrium could be described by the Langmuir isotherm. The rate of uranium adsorption increased following permeabilization of the outer and/or cytoplasmic membrane by organic solvents such as acetone. P. aeruginosa CSU biomass was significantly more sorptive toward uranium than certain novel, patented biosorbents derived from algal or fungal biomass sources. P. aeruginosa CSU biomass was also competitive with commercial cation-exchange resins, particularly in the presence of dissolved transition metals. Uranium binding by P. aeruginosa CSU was clearly pH dependent. Uranium loading capacity increased with increasing pH under acidic conditions, presumably as a function of uranium speciation and due to the H + competition at some binding sites. Nevertheless, preliminary evidence suggests that this microorganism is also capable of binding anionic hexavalent uranium complexes. Ferric iron was a strong inhibitor of uranium binding to P. aeruginosa CSU biomass, and the presence of uranium also decreased the Fe 3+ loading when the biomass was not saturated with Fe 3+ . Thus, a two-state process in which iron and uranium are removed in consecutive steps was proposed for efficient use of the biomass as a biosorbent in uranium removal from mine wastewater, especially acidic leachates

Investigating the structural changes of uranium dioxide dependent on additives, Phase I - Uranium-oxide system from structural-phase aspect

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Manojlovic, Lj.

1962-12-01

Having in mind the complex structure of the system uranium-oxygen, and that experimental studies of this system lead to controversial conclusions, an extensive review and analysis of the papers published on this subject were needed. This review wold be very useful for interpreting the expected structural changes of the uranium dioxide dependent on the additives

Siloxides as supporting ligands in uranium(III)-mediated small-molecule activation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mougel, Victor; Camp, Clement; Pecaut, Jacques; Mazzanti, Marinella [Laboratoire de Reconnaissance Ionique et Chimie de Coordination, SCIB, UMR-E3 CEA-UJF, INAC, CEA-Grenoble (France); Coperet, Christophe [Laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry, ETH Zurich (Switzerland); Maron, Laurent; Kefalidis, Christos E. [LPCNO, CNRS and INSA, UPS, Universite de Toulouse (France)

2012-12-03

Siloxides can support U..in the reduction of small molecules with uranium complexes. The treatment of [U{N(SiMe_3)_2}{sub 3}] with HOSi(OtBu){sub 3} (3 equiv) yielded a novel homoleptic uranium(III) siloxide complex 1, which acted as a two-electron reducing agent toward CS{sub 2} and CO{sub 2}. Complex 1 also reduced toluene to afford a diuranium inverted-sandwich complex. (Copyright copyright 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Behaviour study of trace radioelements in the cycles of uranium conversion

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bertaux, M.

1998-01-01

The aim of this work was to study the presence of ultra-trace radioelements in the cycles of uranium conversion. Radiochemical methods for determining ultra-trace amounts of various elements in uranium have been perfected. These methods are based on the chromatographic separation of anionic complexes and on the measurement of various activities by alpha spectrometry. Thus, the source of these traces has been determined and a work of tracing has been carried out in the Malvesi site (uranium purification unit). This work has revealed an accumulation of these traces in the uranium purification column, consequently to their extraction by the TBP. A decontamination process of weakly contaminated uranium batches has been proposed using the Parex computer model and tested at the industrial scale. This process is based on the U(VI) extraction by the TBP/ISOPAR mixture and on the use of oxalic acid as the complexing agent of the tetravalent actinides in aqueous phase. It has been tested with success during a purification study of a batch of about 4 tons of uranium contaminated by traces of various radioelements. The preliminary study had taken into account the influence of metallic impurities (iron, nickel, copper) on the radioelements complexation by the oxalate ions. (O.M.)

Progress in recovery technology for uranium from seawater

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sugo, Takanobu; Saito, Kyoichi.

1994-01-01

By the facts that the research group in Japan improved the performance of amidoxime resin which is the adsorbent for collecting seawater uranium, proposed the method of mooring floating bodies utilizing sea current and waves as the adsorption system, and further, verified the results of laboratory basic experiment by marine experiment, the technology of collecting seawater uranium has progressed. After the oil crisis, various countries started the research on seawater uranium, but only Japan has continued the systematic study up to now. In this report, the research on seawater uranium collection carried out so far is summarized, and the characteristics of the adsorbent which was synthesized by radiation graft polymerization and the results of the uranium collection test using coastal seawater are reported. In seawater of 1 m 3 , the uranium of 3.3 mg is dissolved in the form of uranyl tricarbonate complex ions. In the total quantity of seawater, the dissolved uranium amounts to about 4.6 billion tons, about 1000 times of the uranium resources on land. The research on seawater uranium collection and the performance of uranium adsorption of synthesized amidoxime fibers are reported. (K.I.)

Siloxides as supporting ligands in uranium(III)-mediated small-molecule activation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mougel, Victor; Camp, Clement; Pecaut, Jacques; Mazzanti, Marinella [CEA-Grenoble (France). Lab. de Reconnaissance Ionique et Chimie de Coordination; Coperet, Christophe [ETH Zuerich (Switzerland). Lab. of Inorganic Chemistry; Maron, Laurent; Kefalidis, Christos E. [Toulouse Univ. (France). LPCNO, CNRS et INSA, UPS

2012-12-03

Siloxides support the reduction of small molecules with uranium complexes. The treatment of [U{N(SiMe_3)_2}{sub 3}] with HOSi(OtBu){sub 3} (3 equiv.) yielded a novel homoleptic uranium(III) siloxide complex 1, which acted as a two-electron reducing agent toward CS{sub 2} and CO{sub 2}. Uranium(III) siloxide complex 1 also reduced toluene to afford a diuranium inverted-sandwich complex. [German] Siloxide unterstuetzen die Reduktion kleiner Molekuele durch Uran-Komplexe. Die Behandlung von [U{N(SiMe_3)_2}{sub 3}] mit HOSi(OtBu){sub 3} (3 Aequiv.) liefert den neuartigen homoleptischen Uran(III)-Siloxid-Komplex 1, der als Zwei-Elektronen-Reduktionsmittel fuer CS{sub 2} und CO{sub 2} (siehe Schema) wirkt. Komplex 1 reduziert ausserdem Toluol und bildet einen invertierten Diuran-Sandwichkomplex.

Uranium extraction from gold-uranium ores

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Laskorin, B.N.; Golynko, Z.Sh.

1981-01-01

The process of uranium extraction from gold-uranium ores in the South Africa is considered. Flowsheets of reprocessing gold-uranium conglomerates, pile processing and uranium extraction from the ores are presented. Continuous counter flow ion-exchange process of uranium extraction using strong-active or weak-active resins is noted to be the most perspective and economical one. The ion-exchange uranium separation with the succeeding extraction is also the perspective one.

Study on the relation between uranium content and total phosphorus in some sudanese phosphate ore samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Eltayeb, M. A. H.; Mohammed, A. A.

2003-01-01

In the present work uranium content and total phosphorus were determined in 30 phosphate ore samples collected from Kurun and Uro areas in Nuba Mountains in Sudan. Spectrophotometry technique was used for this purpose. Uranium analysis is based on the use of nitrogen (V) acid for leaching the rock, and treatment with ammonium carbonate solution, whereby uranium (Vi) is kept in solution as its carbonate complex. The ion exchange technique was used for the recovery of uranium. Uranium was eluted from the resin with 1 M hydrochloric acid. In the elute, uranium was determined spectrophotometrically by measurement of absorbance of the yellow uranium (Vi)-8-hydroxyquinolate complex at λ 400 nm. The total phosphorus was measured as (P 2 O 5 %) by treatment of the total liquor with ammonium molybdate solution. The absorbance of the blue complex was measured at λ 880 nm. The results show that a limited relation is existed between uranium content and total phosphorus in phosphate samples from kurun area, which contain 58.8 ppm uranium in average, where there are no relation is existed in phosphate samples from uro area, which contain 200 ppm uranium in average. (Author)

Study on the relation between uranium content and total phosphorus in some sudanese phosphate ore samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mohammed, A.A.; Eltayeb, M.A.H.

2003-01-01

In the present work uranium content and total phosphorous were determined in 30 phosphate ore samples collected from Kurun and Uro areas in Nuba mountains in sudan. Spectrophotometry technique was used for this purpose. Uranium analysis is based on the use of nitrogen (V) acid for leaching the rock, and treatment with ammonium carbonate solution, whereby uranium (VI) is kept in solution as its carbonate complex. The ion-exchange technique was used for the recovery of uranium. Uranium was eluted from the resin with 1 M hydrochloric acid. In the elute, uranium was determined spectrophotometrically by measurement of the absorbance of the yellow uranium (VI) - 8- hydroxyquinolate complex at λ 400 nm. The total phosphorus was measured as (P 2 O 5 %) by treatment of the leach liquor with ammonium molybdate solution. The absorbance of the blue complex was measured at λ 880 nm. The results show that a limited relation is existed between uranium content and total phosphorus in phosphate samples from Kurun area, which contain 58.8 ppm uranium in average, where there are no relation is existed in phosphate samples samples from Uro area, which contain 200 ppm uranium in average

Uranium preconcentration from seawater using adsorptive membranes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Das, Sadananda; Pandey, A.K.; Manchanda, V.K.; Athawale, A.A.

2009-01-01

Uranium recovery from bio-aggressive but lean feed like seawater is a challenging problem as it requires in situ preconcentration of uranium in presence of huge excess of competing ions with fast sorption kinetics. In our laboratory, widely used amidoxime membrane (AO-membrane) was evaluated for uranium sorption under seawater conditions. This study indicated that AO-membrane was inherently slow because of the complexation chemistry involved in transfer of U(VI) from (UO 2 (CO 3 ) 3 ) 4 - to AO sites in membrane. In order to search better options, several chemical compositions of membrane were scanned for their efficacy for uranium preconcentration from seawater, and concluded that EGMP-membrane offers several advantages over AO-membrane. In this paper, the comparison of EGMP-membrane with AO-membrane for uranium sorption under seawater conditions has been reviewed. (author)

Studies on the extraction of uranium by N-octanoyl-N-phenylhydroxamic acid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Saha, B.; Venkatesan, K.A.; Antony, M.P.; Vasudeva Rao, P.R.; Natarajan, R.

2002-01-01

N-octanoyl-N-phenylhydroxamic acid (OHA) has been prepared by partial reduction of nitrobenzene with Zn dust/NH 4 Cl, followed by acylation with n-octanoyl chloride. Structure of OHA was confirmed by 1 H NMR, IR spectra and CHNS microanalysis. The extraction of uranium by OHA has been studied as a function of pH, temperature and concentration of OHA. The extraction of uranium was found to increase with increase in pH. Uranium forms a 1 : 2 complex with OHA. IR Spectra and NMR Spectra of the uranium-OHA complex and slope analysis obtained from extraction studies indicated that the extraction of uranium was due to the formation of a chelate. The enthalpy change accompanied by the extraction of uranium by OHA has been obtained by temperature variation method. The extraction process was found to be endothermic at pH 2 and exothermic at pH 6. (orig.)

Spectrophotometric determination of uranium using quercetin

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barros, A.R.

1972-10-01

A spectrophotometric method for quantitative determination of uranium, using a flavone (quercetin) as complexing agent, is described. The method is based on the reaction between uranyl ion and alcoholic solution of quercetin with a complex formation of intense yellow color. (M.C.L.) [pt

Method for converting uranium oxides to uranium metal

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Duerksen, W.K.

1988-01-01

A method for converting uranium oxide to uranium metal is described comprising the steps of heating uranium oxide in the presence of a reducing agent to a temperature sufficient to reduce the uranium oxide to uranium metal and form a heterogeneous mixture of a uranium metal product and oxide by-products, heating the mixture in a hydrogen atmosphere at a temperature sufficient to convert uranium metal in the mixture to uranium hydride, cooling the resulting uranium hydride-containing mixture to a temperature sufficient to produce a ferromagnetic transition in the uranium hydride, magnetically separating the cooled uranium hydride from the mixture, and thereafter heating the separated uranium hydride in an inert atmosphere to a temperature sufficient to convert the uranium hydride to uranium metal

Effect of denaturants on the speciation of uranium(VI) complexes of malonic acid in micellar media

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sailaja, B.B.V.; Kebede, Tesfahun; Nageswara Rao, G.; Prasada Rao, M.S.

2001-01-01

A computer assisted investigation has been made on the nature of complexes of uranium(VI) with malonic acid. The formation constants have been determined experimentally by monitoring hydrogen ion concentration. The distribution of the metal ion amongst the complexes formed with the above carboxylic acid has also been computed. The formation constants have been refined with the computer program, MINIQUAD75 using the primary alkalimetric data. The predominant complexes formed are UO 2 (H 2 C 3 O 4 ) 2 ) 2- , UO 2 (H 2 C 3 O 4 ) and UO 2 (H 2 C 3 O 4 )(H 2 C 3 O 4 H) - . The distribution pattern of different species varies with the relative concentrations of the metal ion and the ligand. The variation of stability with surfactant concentrations is found to be the cumulative effect of various factors like electrostatic interactions. dilution effect and competition for hydrogen ion associated with the nature of micelles. (author)

Uranium tetracyclopentadienyl interaction with carbon oxide and dioxide

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Leonov, M.R.; Solov'eva, G.V.; Kozina, I.Z.; Bolotova, G.T.

1983-01-01

Using the methods of gas-liquid chromatography, IR and UV spectroscopy and element analysis, the reactions of tetracyclogentadienyluranium with carbon oxide and dioxide have been studied. It is shown that complete uranium cyclopentadienyl π-complex-tetracyclopentadienyluranium - in pentane under normal conditions for 100 hr reacts with carbon oxide and dioxide with the formation of polymeric complex ([(etasup(5)-Csub(5)Hsub(5))x(-CO-)U(etasup(5)-Csub(5)Hsub(4))(-CO-)]sub(2)]sub(n), in which two uranium atoms are bonded with two bridge fragments (eta 5 -C 5 H 4 -CO-), and dimeric complex [(eta 5 -C 5 H 5 ) 2 UH 2 xCO 2 ] 2 respectively

Comparison of numerical and physico-chemical models for on-line spectrophotometric control of uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Corriou, J.P.; Boisde, G.

1986-04-01

In view of on-line spectrophotometric control of fuel reprocessing streams, a physico-chemical model able to predict uranium and nitric acid concentrations in an uranyl nitrate-nitric acid system has been searched. Thus the influences of the following parameters: uranium, nitrate, hydrogen ion concentrations, ionic strength, on the equilibria of complexation of uranium (VI) nitrate have been evaluated. Extinction coefficients for the uranium mononitrate and uranium dinitrate complexes are given between 410 and 440 nm. The apparent equilibrium constants are determined as a function of the ionic strength. The limitations of this predictive model are emphasized and comparisons with numerical models are discussed. (16 refs)

Inorganic-Organic hybrid materials for uranium extraction from phosphoric acid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

El-Mourabit, Sabah

2013-01-01

Phosphate rocks are industrially processed in large quantities to produce phosphoric acid and fertilisers. These rocks contain significant concentration of uranium (50 to 300 ppm) which could be interesting for nuclear industry. This work deals with the valorisation of uranium as a by-product from fertiliser industry. The aim of this study is to develop a hybrid material, constituted of an inorganic solid support grafted with an extractant (complexing molecule), which can extract selectively uranium from phosphoric acid medium. The first step of our approach was to identify an inorganic support which is stable under these particular conditions (strong acidity and complexing medium). The chemical and mechanical stability of different meso-porous materials, such as silica, glass and carbon was studied. In a second phase, we focused on the identification and the optimisation of complexing molecules, specific of uranium in phosphoric acid. These ligands were then grafted on the most stable solids. Finally, the efficiency of these hybrid systems was evaluated through different tests of extraction, selectivity and de-extraction. (author) [fr

Method for converting uranium oxides to uranium metal

Science.gov (United States)

Duerksen, Walter K.

1988-01-01

A process is described for converting scrap and waste uranium oxide to uranium metal. The uranium oxide is sequentially reduced with a suitable reducing agent to a mixture of uranium metal and oxide products. The uranium metal is then converted to uranium hydride and the uranium hydride-containing mixture is then cooled to a temperature less than -100.degree. C. in an inert liquid which renders the uranium hydride ferromagnetic. The uranium hydride is then magnetically separated from the cooled mixture. The separated uranium hydride is readily converted to uranium metal by heating in an inert atmosphere. This process is environmentally acceptable and eliminates the use of hydrogen fluoride as well as the explosive conditions encountered in the previously employed bomb-reduction processes utilized for converting uranium oxides to uranium metal.

Chapter 6. Uranium extraction possibilities from natural uranium-bearing waters of complex salt composition. 6.2. Technology for uranium extraction from brine with a high content of ion-chlorine

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khakimov, N.; Nazarov, Kh.M.; Mirsaidov, I.U.

2012-01-01

Present article is devoted to technology for uranium extraction from brine with a high content of ion-chlorine. The content of basic anions and cations in lake waters of Sasik-Kul deposit was defined. Results of X-ray spectral analysis of salt residual after water evaporation from Sasik-Kul lake was discussed. Investigations revealed that uranium extraction from brines containing ion-chlorine is possible. The developed basic process flow diagram of uranium extraction from Sasik-Kul Lake' brine consists of the following basic stages: evaporation, leaching, catching of formed gases (HCl), sorption, desorption, deposition, drying and tempering.

Chapter 6. Uranium extraction possibilities from natural uranium-bearing waters of complex salt composition. 6.2. Technology for uranium extraction from brine with a high content of ion-chlorine

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khakimov, N.; Nazarov, Kh.M.; Mirsaidov, I.U.

2011-01-01

Present article is devoted to technology for uranium extraction from brine with a high content of ion-chlorine. The content of basic anions and cations in lake waters of Sasik-Kul deposit was defined. Results of X-ray spectral analysis of salt residual after water evaporation from Sasik-Kul lake was discussed. Investigations revealed that uranium extraction from brines containing ion-chlorine is possible. The developed basic process flow diagram of uranium extraction from Sasik-Kul Lake' brine consists of the following basic stages: evaporation, leaching, catching of formed gases (HCl), sorption, desorption, deposition, drying and tempering.

Spectroscopic studies of uranium species for environmental decontamination applications

Science.gov (United States)

Eng, Charlotte

After the Cold War, Department of Energy began to concentrate its efforts on cleanup of former nuclear material processing facilities, especially uranium-contaminated groundwater and soil. This research aims to study uranium association to both organic and inorganic compounds found in the contaminated environment in the hopes that the information gathered can be applied to the development and optimization of cost-effective remediation techniques. Spectroscopic and electrochemical methods will be employed to examine the behavior of uranium in given conditions to further our understanding of its impact on the environment. Uranium found in groundwater and soil bind with various ligands, especially organic ligands present in the environment due to natural sources (e.g. metabolic by-products or degradation of plants and animals) or man-made sources (e.g. chelating agents used in operating or cleanup of uranium processing facilities). We selected reasonable analogs of naturally occurring matter and studied their structure, chemical and electrochemical behavior and found that the structure of uranyl complexes depends heavily on the nature of the ligand and environmental factors such as pH. Association of uranium-organic complexes with anaerobic bacteria, Clostridium sp. was studied to establish if the bacteria can effectively bioreduce uranium while going through normal bacterial activity. It was found that the nature of the organic ligand affected the bioavailability and toxicity of the uranium on the bacteria. In addition, we have found that the type of iron corrosion products and uranyl species present on the surface of corroded steel depended on various environmental factors, which subsequently affected the removal rate of uranium by a citric acid/hydrogen peroxide/deionized water cleaning process. The method was found to remove uranium from only the topmost corrosion layers and residual uranium could be found (a) deeper in the corrosion layers where it is occluded by

Uranium distribution in relation to sedimentary facies, Kern Lake, California

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Merifield, P.M.; Carlisle, D.; Idiz, E.; Anderhalt, R.; Reed, W.E.; Lamar, D.L.

1980-04-01

Kern Lake has served as a sink for drainage from the southern Sierra Nevada and, in lesser amounts, from the southern Temblor Range. Both areas contain significant uranium source rocks. The uranium content in Holocene Kern Lake sediments correlates best with the mud (silt and clay) fraction. It correlates less well with organic carbon. Biotite grains could account for much of the uranium in the sand fraction, and perhaps the silt fraction as well. The data suggest that fixation of uranium by adsorption on mineral grains is a dominant process in this lake system. Further work is required to determine the importance of cation-exchange of uranium on clays and micas and of organically complexed uranium adsorbed to mineral surfaces. These findings also raise the question of whether uranium transport down the Kern River occurs largely as uranium adsorbed to mineral surfaces

Occurrence forms of uranium in the production solutions in the areas of underground leaching of epigenetic uranium deposits

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Serebrennikov, V.S.; Dorofeeva, V.A.

1980-01-01

Redox, acid-basic features of solutions (Eh changes from + 50 to 650 mV, pH from 7.5 to 1.5) and their chemical composition are studied in the process of hydrogeochemical investigations at the areas of underground leaching (UL) of epigenetic uranium deposits. It is shown that at studied areas of UL under neutral and weakly acidic conditions up to (pH 6.0-5.8), carbonate complexes of uranyl are the prevailing form of uranium existence in the solution, and sulfate complexes prevail under more acidic conditions. A supposition is made that it is expedient to process separate ore blocks with increased carbonate contents, particularly with oxidant additions under near-neutral acid-basic conditions (pH 7.2-6.8) with the use of weakly acid pumping solutions, which act (at the expense of their interaction with carbonates of ore-containing rocks) for enrichment of working solutions with HCO 3 - and CO 3 2- ions, promoting uranium transfer into solution

Uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cuney, M.; Pagel, M.; Leroy, J.

1992-01-01

First, this book presents the physico-chemical properties of Uranium and the consequences which can be deduced from the study of numerous geological process. The authors describe natural distribution of Uranium at different scales and on different supports, and main Uranium minerals. A great place in the book is assigned to description and classification of uranium deposits. The book gives also notions on prospection and exploitation of uranium deposits. Historical aspects of Uranium economical development (Uranium resources, production, supply and demand, operating costs) are given in the last chapter. 7 refs., 17 figs

Ligand assisted cleavage of uranium oxo-clusters

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nocton, Gregory; Pecaut, Jacques; Mazzanti, Marinella [Laboratoire de Reconnaissance Ionique et Chimie de Coordination, Service de Chimie Inorganique et Biologique, UMR-E 3 CEA-UJF, CEA/DSM/INAC, CEA-Grenoble, 38054 Grenoble, Cedex 09 (France); Filinchuk, Yaroslav [Swiss Norwegian Beam Lines (SNBL) at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), rue Jules Horowitz, 38043 Grenoble (France)

2010-07-01

Dibenzoylmethanate replaces the bridging triflate ligands in uranium triflate poly-oxo-clusters and cleaves the U{sub 12}O{sub 20} core yielding the new [U{sub 6}O{sub 4}(OH){sub 4}({eta}-dbm){sub 12}] dibenzoylmethanate (dbm{sup -}) cluster which slowly dissociates into a monomeric complex. This reactivity demonstrates the importance of bridging ligands in stabilizing uranium poly-oxo-clusters. (authors)

75 FR 15743 - Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium

Science.gov (United States)

2010-03-30

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium Pursuant to 10 CFR 110.70(c) ``Public notice of receipt of an application,'' please take notice that the...-Enriched 160.0 kilograms To fabricate fuel France. Complex, March 3, 2010. Uranium (93.35%). uranium (149...

77 FR 1956 - Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium

Science.gov (United States)

2012-01-12

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION Application for a License To Export High-Enriched Uranium Pursuant to 10 CFR 110.70(b) ``Public Notice of Receipt of an Application,'' please take notice that the.... Security Complex. Uranium uranium (9.3 targets at December 21, 2011 (93.35%). kilograms U- CERCA AREVA...

Cyclopentadienyl complexes of uranium(IV) chlorides. Crystal structures of trichloro(eta5-cyclopentadienyl)bis(triphenylphosphine oxide)uranium(IV) tetrahydrofuran solvate and of trichloro(eta5-cyclopentadienyl)bis(hexamethylphosphoramide)uranium(IV)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bagnall, K.W.; De Paoli, G.

1984-01-01

The crystal and molecular structures of [U(cp)Cl 3 (PPh 3 O) 2 ].thf (thf = tetrahydrofuran) (1) and [U(cp)Cl 3 (P(NMe 2 ) 3 O) 2 ] (cp = eta 5 -cyclopentadienyl) (2) have been determined from three-dimensional X-ray diffraction data. The results are presented. In both compounds the uranium atom is octahedrally co-ordinated with the two neutral ligands [PPh 3 O and P(NMe 2 ) 3 O] in cis positions; the chlorine atoms are in the mer arrangement and the cyclopentadienyl group is trans to one neutral ligand. The appearance of cis octahedral geometry in complexes of the type [U(cp)Cl 3 L 2 ] is discussed in terms of the operation of a possible trans effect. (author)

Solvent extraction of uranium and molybdenum in sulfuric media

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Duarte Neto, J.

1980-01-01

A Solvent extraction process for recovering the uranium and molibdenum from the sulfuric acid solution produced from Figueira ores was developed. The leach solution contains molibdenum with a mean ratio Mo/U = 35%. THe solvent used was a terciary amine-Alamine 336, modified with tridecanol in querosine. An investigation was made to evaluate the variables affecting the extraction and stripping of uranium and molibdenum. The Alamine 336 showed a significant extraction power for uranium and molibdenum. In the stripping step of uranium using acidified sodium cloride it was observed the presence of an insoluble amine-molibdenum-arsenic complex. (author) [pt

Environmental Survey preliminary report, Portsmouth Uranium Enrichment Complex, Piketon, Ohio

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1987-08-01

This report presents the preliminary findings from the first phase of the Environmental Survey of the United States Department of Energy (DOE) Portsmouth Uranium Enrichment Complex (PUEC), conducted August 4 through August 15, 1986. The Survey is being conducted by an interdisciplinary team of environmental specialists, led and managed by the Office of Environment, Safety and Health's Office of Environmental Audit. Team specialists are being supplied by a private contractor. The objective of the Survey is to identify environmental problems and areas of environmental regulation. It is being performed in accordance with the DOE Environmental Survey Manual. This phase of the Survey involves the review of existing site environmental data, observations of the operations performed at PUEC, and interviews with site personnel. The Survey team developed a Sampling and Analysis Plan to assist in further assessing certain of the environmental problems identified during its on-site activities. The Sampling and Analysis Plan will be executed by Argonne National Laboratory. When completed, the results will be incorporated into the PUEC Environmental Survey Interim Report. The Interim Report will reflect the final determinations of the PUEC Survey. 55 refs., 22 figs., 21 tabs

XAS and TRLIF spectroscopy of uranium and neptunium in seawater.

Science.gov (United States)

Maloubier, Melody; Solari, Pier Lorenzo; Moisy, Philippe; Monfort, Marguerite; Den Auwer, Christophe; Moulin, Christophe

2015-03-28

Seawater contains radionuclides at environmental levels; some are naturally present and others come from anthropogenic nuclear activity. In this report, the molecular speciation in seawater of uranium(VI) and neptunium(V) at a concentration of 5 × 10(-5) M has been investigated for the first time using a combination of two spectroscopic techniques: Time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence (TRLIF) for U and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) for U and Np at the LIII edge. In parallel, the theoretical speciation of uranium and neptunium in seawater at the same concentration is also discussed and compared to spectroscopic data. The uranium complex was identified as the neutral carbonato calcic complex UO2(CO3)3Ca2, which has been previously described in other natural systems. In the case of neptunium, the complex identified is mainly a carbonato complex whose exact stoichiometry is more difficult to assess. The knowledge of the actinide molecular speciation and reactivity in seawater is of fundamental interest in the particular case of uranium recovery and more generally regarding the actinide life cycle within the biosphere in the case of accidental release. This is the first report of actinide direct speciation in seawater medium that can complement inventory data.

Anticorrosion protection of uranium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Goncharov, Ivan D.; Kazakovskaya, Tatiana; Tukmakov, Victor; Shapovalov, Vyacheslav [Russian Federal Nuclear Center-VNIIEF, 37, Mira Ave., RU-607190 Sarov (Nizhnii Gorod), 010450 (Russian Federation)

2004-07-01

Uranium in atmospheric conditions is non-stable. Sloughing products are being generated on its surface during storage or use. These corrosion products make many difficulties because of necessity to provide personnel safety. Besides, uranium corrosion may cause damage in parts. The first works devoted to uranium corrosion were performed in the framework of the USA Manhattan Project in the early forties of last century. Various methods of uranium protection were investigated, among them the galvanic one was the most studied. Later on the galvanic technology was patented. The works on this problem remains urgent up to the present time. In Russia, many methods of uranium corrosion protection, mainly against atmospheric corrosion, were tried on. In particular, such methods as diffusion zinc and paint coating were investigated. In the first case, a complex intermetallic U-Zn compound was formed but its protection was not reliable enough, this protection system was inconvenient and uncertain and that is why an additional paint coating was necessary. In the case of paint coatings another problem appeared. It was necessary to find such a coating where gas-permeability would prevail over water-permeability. Otherwise significant uranium corrosion occurs. This circumstance together with low mechanical resistance of paint coatings does not allow to use paint coating for long-term protection of uranium. Currently, there are following methods of uranium protection: ion-plasma, galvanic and thermo-vacuum annealing. These are described in this paper. In the end the issue of corrosion protection in reactor core zones is addressed. Here the greatest difficulties are caused when enriched uranium heated up to 500 deg. C needs anticorrosion protection. In this case various metal coatings are not reliable because of brittle inter-metallide formation. The reliable protection may be provided only up to the temperature plus 400 - 500 deg. C with the help of galvanic copper coating since

Anticorrosion protection of uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Goncharov, Ivan D.; Kazakovskaya, Tatiana; Tukmakov, Victor; Shapovalov, Vyacheslav

2004-01-01

Uranium in atmospheric conditions is non-stable. Sloughing products are being generated on its surface during storage or use. These corrosion products make many difficulties because of necessity to provide personnel safety. Besides, uranium corrosion may cause damage in parts. The first works devoted to uranium corrosion were performed in the framework of the USA Manhattan Project in the early forties of last century. Various methods of uranium protection were investigated, among them the galvanic one was the most studied. Later on the galvanic technology was patented. The works on this problem remains urgent up to the present time. In Russia, many methods of uranium corrosion protection, mainly against atmospheric corrosion, were tried on. In particular, such methods as diffusion zinc and paint coating were investigated. In the first case, a complex intermetallic U-Zn compound was formed but its protection was not reliable enough, this protection system was inconvenient and uncertain and that is why an additional paint coating was necessary. In the case of paint coatings another problem appeared. It was necessary to find such a coating where gas-permeability would prevail over water-permeability. Otherwise significant uranium corrosion occurs. This circumstance together with low mechanical resistance of paint coatings does not allow to use paint coating for long-term protection of uranium. Currently, there are following methods of uranium protection: ion-plasma, galvanic and thermo-vacuum annealing. These are described in this paper. In the end the issue of corrosion protection in reactor core zones is addressed. Here the greatest difficulties are caused when enriched uranium heated up to 500 deg. C needs anticorrosion protection. In this case various metal coatings are not reliable because of brittle inter-metallide formation. The reliable protection may be provided only up to the temperature plus 400 - 500 deg. C with the help of galvanic copper coating since

Current status and future prospects of uranium resources

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kuronuma, Chosuke

1997-01-01

Uranium is contained in various things in natural world, for example, 3 ppm in granite and 3x10 -3 ppm in seawater. Uranium exists in the state of tetra, penta and hexa-valence in nature, and in oxidizing environment, it exists as uranyl radical of hexa-valence, forms soluble complexes, and easily moves with water. In reducing environment, it becomes insoluble state of tetra-valence and precipitates. This property of uranium is deeply related to the way of forming the deposit, and it is explained. The uranium resources of the recovery cost being 80 dollars per kg U or less are 2,120,000 t, and 60% of the total exists in Australia, Kazakstan and Canada. The cumulative production of uranium in the world from 1945 to 1995 was 1,810,000 t. Of the total production, 875,000 t was used for civil purpose, and 750,000 t was used for military purpose. The uranium deposits in Canada are very high quality, and produce 1/3 of the world uranium production. There are the inventories of 150,000-200,000 t U. The diversion of military high enriched uranium to civil purpose is reported. The state of uranium market, the prospect of demand and supply of uranium, and the exploration and development of uranium resources are described. (K.I.)

Study of non stoichiometric uranium dioxide samples (UO2)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Moura, Sergio C.; Lima, Nelson B. de; Bustillos, Jose O.V.

1999-01-01

The gravimetric and voltammetric methods for determination of non-stoichiometric O/U ratio in uranium dioxide used as nuclear fuel are discussed in this work. The oxidation of uranium oxide is very complex due to many phase changes. gravimetric and voltammetric methods do not detect phase changes. The results of this work shown that, to evaluate both methods is requiring to be done Rietveld methods by x-ray diffraction data to identify the uranium oxide phase changes. (author)

Uranium distribution and fixation in main types of climatic and stational pedogenesis on crystalline rocks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gueniot, B.

1983-11-01

An experimental and analytical study of uranium behavior in soils and of its distribution was carried out for bioclimatic pedogenesis on crystalline rocks, generally granites. Uranium distribution, and sometimes thorium) is compared to the distribution of tracers of pedogenesis (C, Fe, Al, Si, alkalis, clays). Uranium and thorium behavior is dependent of pedogenesis and can be leached or concentrated. Various fractions of soil alteration complexes and associated uranium can be isolated by chemical and physical fractionation and fixation sites for U are evidenced, efficiency is tested in situ. Adsorption is low onclays, fixation is frequent on oxyhydroxides, organic compounds are active for uranium complexation [fr

Uranium chemistry in stack solutions and leachates of phosphogypsum disposed at a coastal area in Cyprus.

Science.gov (United States)

Lysandrou, M; Pashalidis, I

2008-02-01

The effect of the matrix composition (main constituents) on the concentration and chemical behavior of uranium in phosphogypsum stack solutions and leachates has been investigated. Solid and aqueous samples were taken from three different sub-areas of a phosphogypsum stack at a coastal area in Vasilikos (Cyprus). The sub-areas are characterized whether by their acidity (e.g. "aged" and "non-aged" phosphogypsum) or by their salt content, originating from pulping water during wet stacking or (after deposition) from the adjacent sea. Measurements in stack solutions and leachates showed that phosphogypsum characteristics affect both, the concentration and the chemical behavior of uranium in solution. Uranium concentration in solutions of increased salinity is up to three orders of magnitude higher than in solutions of low salinity and this is attributed to the effect of ionic strength on the solubility of phosphogypsum. Modelling showed that uranium in stack solutions is predominantly present in the form of uranium(VI) phosphate complexes (e.g. UO(2)(H(2)PO(4))(2), UO(2)HPO(4)), whereas in leachates uranium(VI) fluoro complexes (e.g. UO(2)F(2), UO(2)F(3)(-)) are predominant in solution. The latter indicates that elution of uranium from phosphogypsum takes places most probably in the form of fluoro complexes. Both, effective elution by saline water and direct migration of uranium to the sea, where it forms very stable uranium(VI) carbonato complexes, indicate that the adjacent sea will be the final receptor of uranium released from Vasilikos phosphogypsum.

Peroxo complexes of molybdenum(VI), tungsten(VI), uranium(VI), zirconium(IV) and thorium(IV) ions containing tridentate Schiff bases derived from salicylaldehyde and amino acids

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tarafder, M.T.H.; Khan, A.R.

1997-01-01

The synthesis of peroxo complexes of molybdenum(VI), tungsten(VI), uranium(VI), zirconium(IV), thorium(IV) and their possible oxygen transfer reactions is presented. An attempt has also been made to study the size of the metal ions and the electronic effect derived from the tridentate Schiff bases on the v 1 (O-O) mode of the complexes in their IR spectra

Bicarbonate Elution of Uranium from Amidoxime-Based Polymer Adsorbents for Sequestering Uranium from Seawater

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pan, Horng-Bin [Department of Chemistry, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho 83844 USA; Wai, Chien M. [Department of Chemistry, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho 83844 USA; Kuo, Li-Jung [Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Marine Sciences Laboratory, Sequim, Washington 98382 USA; Gill, Gary [Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Marine Sciences Laboratory, Sequim, Washington 98382 USA; Tian, Guoxin [Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720 USA; Rao, Linfeng [Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720 USA; Das, Sadananda [Materials Science and Technology Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831 USA; Mayes, Richard T. [Materials Science and Technology Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831 USA; Janke, Christopher J. [Materials Science and Technology Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831 USA

2017-05-02

Uranium adsorbed on amidoxime-based polyethylene fibers in simulated seawater can be quantitatively eluted using 3 M KHCO3 at 40°C. Thermodynamic calculations are in agreement with the experimental observation that at high bicarbonate concentrations (3 M) uranyl ions bound to amidoxime molecules are converted to uranyl tris-carbonato complex in the aqueous solution. The elution process is basically the reverse reaction of the uranium adsorption process which occurs at a very low bicarbonate concentration (~10-3 M) in seawater. In real seawater experiments, the bicarbonate elution is followed by a NaOH treatment to remove natural organic matter adsorbed on the polymer adsorbent. Using the sequential bicarbonate and NaOH elution, the adsorbent is reusable after rinsing with deionized water and the recycled adsorbent shows no loss of uranium loading capacity based on real seawater experiments.

Portsmouth Uranium Enrichment Complex environmental monitoring report for calendar year 1984

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1985-05-01

At the Portsmouth Uranium Enrichment Complex all effluent streams are sampled regularly and analyzed to assess compliance with applicable environmental standards. Radioactivity is measured in air, water, fish, produce, soil, and sediments; and radiation doses to the public are calculated. The calculated public radiation doses from process effluents are within US Department of Energy (DOE) and US Environmental Protection Agency standards. An extensive amount of engineering effort is underway to modify existing airborne radioactivity emissions sources to further reduce emissions in compliance with DOE policy. Non-radioactive effluents either presently comply with federal standards or will comply upon completion of planned projects. CY-1984 was the fourth full year under the current National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for liquid effluents, and the second year the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) assumed responsibility for administering the NPDES program. Compliance with the permit's discharge limits, with the exception of violations due to the startup of two new wastewater treatment facilities, did not present any significant problems. Overall compliance was 94.7%

Uranium mineralization in the Bohemian Massif and its exploration

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Matolin, M.; Pluskal, O.; Rene, M.

1981-01-01

Long-term systematic and planned uranium survey including airborne, carborne, ground, logging and laboratory radiometric measurements as well as geological and geochemical investigations have shown a difference in radioactivity of two regional geological units in Czechoslovakia. The higher regional radioactivity of the Variscan granitoid rocks of the Bohemian Massif differs from that of the West Carpathians and is associated with more frequent uranium mineralization. Endogenous vein-type uranium mineralization has a spatial association with high-radioactivity granitoids in the Bohemian Massif. Airborne prospection defined rock radioactivity features on a regional scale while surface and subsurface radiometric and geological investigations using various techniques localized important uranium deposits. Complex statistical evaluation of numerous geophysical and geological data was studied in order to delineate uranium-favourable areas. (author)

Uranium conversion

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Oliver, Lena; Peterson, Jenny; Wilhelmsen, Katarina

2006-03-01

FOI, has performed a study on uranium conversion processes that are of importance in the production of different uranium compounds in the nuclear industry. The same conversion processes are of interest both when production of nuclear fuel and production of fissile material for nuclear weapons are considered. Countries that have nuclear weapons ambitions, with the intention to produce highly enriched uranium for weapons purposes, need some degree of uranium conversion capability depending on the uranium feed material available. This report describes the processes that are needed from uranium mining and milling to the different conversion processes for converting uranium ore concentrate to uranium hexafluoride. Uranium hexafluoride is the uranium compound used in most enrichment facilities. The processes needed to produce uranium dioxide for use in nuclear fuel and the processes needed to convert different uranium compounds to uranium metal - the form of uranium that is used in a nuclear weapon - are also presented. The production of uranium ore concentrate from uranium ore is included since uranium ore concentrate is the feed material required for a uranium conversion facility. Both the chemistry and principles or the different uranium conversion processes and the equipment needed in the processes are described. Since most of the equipment that is used in a uranium conversion facility is similar to that used in conventional chemical industry, it is difficult to determine if certain equipment is considered for uranium conversion or not. However, the chemical conversion processes where UF 6 and UF 4 are present require equipment that is made of corrosion resistant material

Assessing the environmental availability of uranium in soils and sediments

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Amonette, J.E.; Holdren, G.R. Jr.; Krupa, K.M.; Lindenmeier, C.W. [Pacific Northwest Lab., Richland, WA (United States)

1994-06-01

Soils and sediments contaminated with uranium pose certain environmental and ecological risks. At low to moderate levels of contamination, the magnitude of these risks depends not only on the absolute concentrations of uranium in the material but also on the availability of the uranium to drinking water supplies, plants, or higher organisms. Rational approaches for regulating the clean-up of sites contaminated with uranium, therefore, should consider the value of assessing the environmental availability of uranium at the site before making decisions regarding remediation. The purpose of this work is to review existing approaches and procedures to determine their potential applicability for assessing the environmental availability of uranium in bulk soils or sediments. In addition to making the recommendations regarding methodology, the authors have tabulated data from the literature on the aqueous complexes of uranium and major uranium minerals, examined the possibility of predicting environmental availability of uranium based on thermodynamic solubility data, and compiled a representative list of analytical laboratories capable of performing environmental analyses of uranium in soils and sediments.

Assessing the environmental availability of uranium in soils and sediments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Amonette, J.E.; Holdren, G.R. Jr.; Krupa, K.M.; Lindenmeier, C.W.

1994-06-01

Soils and sediments contaminated with uranium pose certain environmental and ecological risks. At low to moderate levels of contamination, the magnitude of these risks depends not only on the absolute concentrations of uranium in the material but also on the availability of the uranium to drinking water supplies, plants, or higher organisms. Rational approaches for regulating the clean-up of sites contaminated with uranium, therefore, should consider the value of assessing the environmental availability of uranium at the site before making decisions regarding remediation. The purpose of this work is to review existing approaches and procedures to determine their potential applicability for assessing the environmental availability of uranium in bulk soils or sediments. In addition to making the recommendations regarding methodology, the authors have tabulated data from the literature on the aqueous complexes of uranium and major uranium minerals, examined the possibility of predicting environmental availability of uranium based on thermodynamic solubility data, and compiled a representative list of analytical laboratories capable of performing environmental analyses of uranium in soils and sediments

Laboratory simulation studies of uranium mobility in natural waters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Giblin, A.M.; Swaine, D.J.; Batts, B.D.

1981-01-01

The effects of imposed variations of pH and Eh on aqueous uranium mobility at 25 0 C have been studied in three simulations of natural water systems. Constituents tested for their effect on uranium mobility were: (a) hydrous ferric oxide, to represent adsorptive solids which precipitate or dissolve in response to variations in pH and Eh; (b) kaolinite, representing minerals which, although modified by pH and Eh changes, are present as solids over the pH-Eh range of natural waters; and (c) carbonate, to represent a strong uranium-complexing species. Uranium mobility measurements from each simulation were regressed against pH and Eh within a range appropriate to natural waters. Hydrous ferric oxide and kaolinite each affected uranium mobility, but in separate pH-Eh domains. Aqueous carbonate increased mobility of uranium, and adsorption of UO 2 (CO 3 ) 3 4- caused colloidal dispersion of hydrous ferric oxide, possibly explaining the presence of 'hydrothermal hematite' in some uranium deposits. Enhanced uranium mobility observed in the pH-Eh domains of thermodynamically insoluble uranium oxides could be explained if the oxides were present as colloids. Uranium persisting as a mobile species, even after reduction, has implications for the near surface genesis of uranium ores. (author)

Contribution to uranium geochemistry in intrusive granites; Contribution a la geochimie de l'uranium dans les granites intrusifs

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Coulomb, R [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1959-01-15

This work aims to define the position of a certain number of French granitic deposits within the field of the geochemistry of granites in general, and of the geochemistry of uranium in particular. The regions concerned are: - 3 French Hercynian ranges, in the Vendee, in Brittany and in the Morvan, - 1 African range, probably precambrian, of the Hoggar. For each range, the petrochemical framework is first of all determined and then the degree of chemical homogeneity of the rocks is evaluated. In the petrochemical groups thus obtained the geochemical behaviour of the uranium is studied. From a point of view of the geochemistry of the granites under investigation, a comparison of the laws of distribution of the major elements in the 4 ranges shows up a convergence of average composition which was not anticipated by geological and petrographic considerations alone. The statistical and geochemical distribution laws of the total uranium as a function of the petrochemical variations are established. A study of the chemical forms of uranium in the rocks has drawn an attention to the qualitative and quantitative importance of the fraction of this uranium soluble in dilute acids. We have therefore reconsidered on the one hand, the laws of distribution of the insoluble uranium, which represents essentially the uranium fixed in crystalline structures (zircon, allanite...), and we have justified on the other hand the interest presented by the soluble uranium: this, although more complex in character, presents a geochemical unity in post magmatic phenomena which makes possible to find a genetic connection between the uraniferous deposits and the intrusive massifs. Finally we have given a plan of the geochemical cycle of uranium, in which we hope to have provided some more accurate data on the igneous phase. (author) [French] Le but du travail presente est de situer sur le plan de la geochimie des granites en general, sur le plan de la geochimie de l'uranium en particulier, un

Machining of uranium and uranium alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Morris, T.O.

1981-01-01

Uranium and uranium alloys can be readily machined by conventional methods in the standard machine shop when proper safety and operating techniques are used. Material properties that affect machining processes and recommended machining parameters are discussed. Safety procedures and precautions necessary in machining uranium and uranium alloys are also covered. 30 figures

Uranium recovery from slags of metallic uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fornarolo, F.; Frajndlich, E.U.C.; Durazzo, M.

2006-01-01

The Center of the Nuclear Fuel of the Institute of Nuclear Energy Research - IPEN finished the program of attainment of fuel development for research reactors the base of Uranium Scilicet (U 3 Si 2 ) from Hexafluoride of Uranium (UF 6 ) with enrichment 20% in weight of 235 U. In the process of attainment of the league of U 3 Si 2 we have as Uranium intermediate product the metallic one whose attainment generates a slag contend Uranium. The present work shows the results gotten in the process of recovery of Uranium in slags of calcined slags of Uranium metallic. Uranium the metallic one is unstable, pyrophoricity and extremely reactive, whereas the U 3 O 8 is a steady oxide of low chemical reactivity, what it justifies the process of calcination of slags of Uranium metallic. The calcination of the Uranium slag of the metallic one in oxygen presence reduces Uranium metallic the U 3 O 8 . Experiments had been developed varying it of acid for Uranium control and excess, nitric molar concentration gram with regard to the stoichiometric leaching reaction of temperature of the leaching process. The 96,0% income proves the viability of the recovery process of slags of Uranium metallic, adopting it previous calcination of these slags in nitric way with low acid concentration and low temperature of leaching. (author)

Uranium, depleted uranium, biological effects; Uranium, uranium appauvri, effets biologiques

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2001-07-01

Physicists, chemists and biologists at the CEA are developing scientific programs on the properties and uses of ionizing radiation. Since the CEA was created in 1945, a great deal of research has been carried out on the properties of natural, enriched and depleted uranium in cooperation with university laboratories and CNRS. There is a great deal of available data about uranium; thousands of analyses have been published in international reviews over more than 40 years. This presentation on uranium is a very brief summary of all these studies. (author)

Uranium geochemistry in a calcareous peat: mineral-organic-microorganisms interactions and implications on uranium mobility in a contaminated soil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Phrommavanh, V.; Descostes, M.; L'Orphelin, J.M.; Beaucaire, C.; Gaudet, J.P.

2009-01-01

The authors discuss the different approaches and techniques which have been implemented to study the behaviour of uranium in an as complex medium as a natural peat, in this case, a calcareous peat located on an old industrial site which was dedicated to uranium processing and which is now being decontaminated. They report and comment a chemical and mineralogical characterization of this peat, its hydrochemical characterization, and a microbial flora characterization

Synthesis, radiometric determination of functional groups, complexation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pompe, S.; Bubner, M.; Schmeide, K.; Heise, K.H.; Bernhard, G.; Nitsche, H.

2000-01-01

The interaction behavior of humic acids with uranium(VI) and the influence of humic substances on the migration behavior of uranium was investigated. A main focus of this work was the synthesis of four different humic acid model substances and their characterization and comparison to the natural humic acid from Aldrich. A radiometric method for the determination of humic acid functional groups was applied in addition to conventional methods for the determination of the functionality of humic acids. The humic acid model substances show functional and structural properties comparable to natural humic acids. Modified humic acids with blocked phenolic OH were synthesized to determine the influence of phenolic OH groups on the complexation behavior of humic acids. A synthesis method for 14 C-labeled humic acids with high specific activity was developed. The complexation behavior of synthetic and natural humic acids with uranium(VI) was investigated by X-ray absorption spectroscopy, laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy and FTIR spectroscopy. The synthetic model substances show an interaction behavior with uranium(VI) that is comparable to natural humic acids. This points to the fact that the synthetic humic acids simulate the functionality of their natural analogues very well. For the first time the influence of phenolic OH groups on the complexation behavior of humic acids was investigated by applying a modified humic acid with blocked phenolic OH groups. The formation of a uranyl hydroxy humate complex was identified by laserspectroscopic investigations of the complexation of Aldrich humic acid with uranium(VI) at pH 7. The migration behavior of uranium in a sandy aquifer system rich is humic substances was investigated in column experiments. A part of uranium migrates non-retarded through the sediment, bound to humic colloids. The uranium migration behavior is strongly influenced by the kinetically controlled interaction processes of uranium with the humic colloids

On the reasons for bombarding uranium with slow neutrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Xu Diyu

1997-01-01

Form the concepts of slow neutrons, the binding energy and the excitation energy of complex nuclei, and the activation energy in nuclear fission, the four reasons for bombarding uranium with slow neutrons are summed up. Not only the reasons for uranium fission are brought in light, but also the micromechanism is dealt with

Uranium solubility and speciation in ground water

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ollila, K.

1985-04-01

The purpose of this study has been to assess the solubility and possible species of uranium in groundwater at the disposal conditions of spent fuel. The effects of radiolysis and bentonite are considered. The assessment is based on the theoretical calculations found in the literature. The Finnish experimental results are included. The conservative estimate for uranium solubility under the oxidizing conditions caused by alpha radiolysis is based on the oxidation of uranium to the U(VI) state and formation of carbonate complex. For the groundwater with the typical carbonate content of 275 mg/l and the high carbonate content of 485 mg/l due to bentonite, the solubility values of 360 mg u/l and 950 mg U/l, are obtained, respectively. The experimental results predict considerably lower values, 0.5-20 mg U/l. The solubility of uranium under the undisturbed reducing conditions may be calculated based on the hydrolysis, carbonate complexation and redox reactions. The results vary considerably depending on the thermodynamic data used. The wide ranges of the most important groundwater parameters are seen in the solubility values. The experimental results show the same trends. As a conservative value for the solubility in reducing groundwater 50-500 μg U/l is estimated. (author)

Method of converting uranium fluoride to intermediate product for uranium oxide manufacture with recycling or reusing valuable materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Baran, V.; Moltasova, J.

1982-01-01

Uranium fluoride is acted upon by water with nitrate containing a cation capable of binding fluoride ions. The uranium is extracted, for instance, with tributyl phosphate with the generated organic phase containing the prevalent proportion of uranium and representing the required intermediate product and the aqueous phase from which is isolated the fluorine component which may be used within the fuel cycle. The nitrate component of the aqueous phase is recycled following treatment. It is also possible to act on uranium fluoride directly with an aqueous solution. Here the cations of nitrate form with the fluorides soluble nondissociated complexes and reduce the concentration of free fluoride ions. The nitrate +s mostly used in an amount corresponding to its solubility in the system prior to the introduction of UF 6 . The uranium from the solution with the reduced concentration of free fluoride ions is extracted into the reaction system under such conditions as to make the prevalent majority of fluorides and an amount of uranium smaller than 5x10 -2 mol/l remain in the aqueous phase and that such an amount of fluorides should remain in the organic phase which is smaller than corresponds to the fluorine/uranium molar ratio in the organic phase. Uranium contained in the organic phase is processed into uranium oxide, with advantage into UO 2 . From the isolated compounds of fluorine and the cation of the nitrate gaseous HF is released which is used either inside or outside of the fuel cycle. (J.P.)

Translocation of uranium from water to foodstuff while cooking

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Krishnapriya, K.C.; Baksi, Ananya; Chaudhari, Swathi; Gupta, Soujit Sen; Pradeep, T.

2015-01-01

Highlights: • Rice can efficiently uptake uranium from water contaminated with uranyl nitrate hexahydrate (UO 2 (NO 3 ) 2.6 H 2 O), while cooking. • Unusual uranium uptake to the extent of about 1000 ppm is observed when rice is cooked in highly concentrated uranium contaminated water (1240 ppm). • Nature of interaction of uranium with carbohydrates is probed using small monosaccharides like glucose and mannose. • Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry showed UO 2 2+ to be the most stable species in water in such solutions which can form complexes with sugars. • The species (UO 2 2+ ) is also observed in the case of water exposed to the common mineral, uranium oxide (UO 2 ) and similar type of complexation is observed with sugars. - Abstract: The present work report the unusual uranium uptake by foodstuff, especially those rich in carbohydrates like rice when they are cooked in water, contaminated with uranium. The major staple diet in South Asia, rice, was chosen to study its interaction with UO 2 2+ , the active uranium species in water, using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Highest uptake limit was checked by cooking rice at very high uranium concentration and it was found to be good scavenger of uranium. To gain insight into the mechanism of uptake, direct interaction of UO 2 2+ with monosaccharides was also studied, using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry taking mannose as a model. The studies have been done with dissolved uranium salt, uranyl nitrate hexahydrate (UO 2 (NO 3 ) 2 ·6H 2 O), as well as the leachate of a stable oxide of uranium, UO 2 (s), both of which exist as UO 2 2+ in water. Among the eight different rice varieties investigated, Karnataka Ponni showed the maximum uranium uptake whereas unpolished Basmati rice showed the minimum. Interaction with other foodstuffs (potato, carrot, peas, kidney beans and lentils) with and without NaCl affected the extent of chemical interaction but was not consistent with the

Spectrophotometric determination of uranium and plutonium in nitric acid solutions at their co-presence

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Levakov, B.I.; Mishenev, V.B.; Nezgovorov, N.Yu.; Ryazanova, G.K.; Timofeev, G.A.

1986-01-01

The method of spectrophotometric determination of uranium (6) and plutonium (4) in nitric acid solutions is described. Uranium is determined by light absorption of the complex with arsenazo 3 in 0.05 mol/l nitric acid at λ=654 nm, plutonium - by light absorption of the complex with xylenol orange in 0.1 mol/l nitric acid at λ=540 nm. To disguise plutonium, tetravalent and certain trivalent elements DTPA is introduced into photometered solution for uranium determination. The relative root-mean square deviation of determination results does not exceed 0.03 in uranium concenration ranges 0.5-5 μg/ml, of plutonium -1-3 μg/ml

Recovery of uranium from uranyl nitrate raffinate. Contributed Paper PE-06

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anilkumar Reddy, A.M.; Shiva Kumar, M.; Varadan, K.M.K.; Babaji, P.; Sairam, S. Sheela; Saibaba, N.

2014-01-01

At New Uranium Oxide Fuel Plant, NUOFP(O) of Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC), the Uranyl Nitrate Raffinate (UNR) generated during solvent extraction process is washed with Treated Lean Solvent(TLS) to recover residual U. Earlier this UNR consisting of 0.5-1 gm/l and 2.5 FA was neutralised with vapour ammonia. The slurry was then filtered over pre coat drum filter and the resultant Uranyl Nitrate Raffinate cake (UNRC) was stored in polyethylene lined MS drums. The valuable U was thus being locked up in UNRC. Also, the storage of UNRC drums required lot of floor space which have to be repacked frequently to contain the radioactivity. Hence the need has come to avoid the generation of UNRC and the recovery of U from the already generated UNRC. The generation of UNRC was avoided by developing alternate process of UNR treatment with Treated Lean Solvent for the removal of residual U and the resulting Acidic Raffinate Slurry (ARS) is disposed. The Uranium recovery from UNRC is done by dissolving the cake in Uranyl Nitrate Raffinate solution to leach the hexavalent Uranium by utilizing the free acidity in UNR. The leaching time is about six hours and the uranium forms uranyl nitrate. The resulting leach solutions are relatively dilute but complex acidic nitrate solutions containing wide variety of ions. Metallic ions commonly present include uranium, iron, magnesium, aluminium, sodium, calcium etc. The uranium concentration is normally 1-1.5 g/L. This uranium is separated by solvent extraction. The active agent in solvent extraction is Tri Butyl Phosphate in kerosene that can selectively extract uranium into an organic complex which is insoluble in aqueous. The organic used for extraction is Treated Lean Solvent in the quality of freshly prepared solvent and the resulting Acidic Raffinate Slurry is disposed by sale. The leaching of Uranium from UNRC was done in plant scale and about 1200 kgs of UNRC was successfully processed in trial batch. The paper deals with details of

Ore-concentrating structures with telescoped uranium mineralization

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shchetochkin, V.N.; Dmitriyev, V.I.; Tkachenko, I.I.

1986-01-01

Deep faults are the main controlling elements in uranium ore fields, although the immediate geologic environments may be quite varied. Within the fault zones, the uranium fields are usually associated with areas where major transverse and diagonal faults intersect or link, and with points of splitting or change in strike in disjunctive zones. Another distinctive feature of the mineralized structure is their long history, with a combination of tectonic elements differing in age and type, usually associated with retrograde dislocation metamorphism. The specific features of these structures control the uranium mineralization, which is usually localized in foci with telescoped tectonic, magmatic, hydrothermal, metasomatic, and sometimes exogenous processes. The unnamed area (in the Ukraine?) furnishes a good example of how successive stages of a complex geologic history affect the occurrence of such a highly mobile element as uranium. 12 references, 4 figures

Uranium extraction from sulfuric acid solution using anion exchange resin

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sheta, M. E.; Abdel Aal, M. M.; Kandil, A. T.

2012-12-01

Uranium is currently recovered from sulfuric acid leach liquor using anion exchange resin as Amberlite IRA 402 (CT). This technology is based on fact that, uranium exists as anionic complexes. This takes place by controlling the pH of the solution, agitation time, temperature and resin to solution ratio (R/S). In this work, batch stirrer tank used for uranium extraction from sulfate medium and after extraction, elution process was done using 1M NaCl solution. After extraction and elution process, the resin was separated from the system and uranium was determined in the solution. (Author)

Adsorptivity of uranium by aluminium-activated carbon composite adsorbent

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Katoh, Shunsaku; Sugasaka, Kazuhiko; Fujii, Ayako; Takagi, Norio; Miyai, Yoshitaka

1976-01-01

To research the adsorption process of uranium from sea water by aluminium-activated carbon composite adsorbent (C-Al-OH), the authors examined the effects of temperature, pH and carbonate ion concentration of the solution upon the adsorption of uranium, using sodium chloride solution and natural sea water. The continued mixing of the solution for the duration of two to four hours was required to attain the apparent equilibrium of adsorption. The adsorption velocity at an early stage and the uptake of uranium at the final stage showed an increase in proportion to a rise in the adsorption temperature. In the experiment of adsorption for which sodium chloride solution was used, the linear relationship between the logarithm of the distribution coefficient (K sub(d)) and the pH of the solution was recognized. The uptake of the uranium from the solution at the pH of 12 increased as the carbonate ion concentration in the solution decreased. The uranyl ion in the natural sea water was assumed to be uranyl carbonate complex ion (UO 2 (CO 3 ) 3 4- ). As the result of the calculation conducted by using the formation constants for uranyl complexes in literature, it was found that uranyl hydroxo complex ion (UO 2 (OH) 3 - ) increased in line with a decrease of the carbonate ion concentration in the solution. The above results of the experiment suggested that the adsorption of uranium by the adsorbent (C-Al-OH) was cationic adsorption or hydrolysis adsorption being related with the active proton on the surface of the adsorbent. (auth.)

Possible uranium sources of Streltsovsky uranium ore field

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang Lisheng

2005-01-01

The uranium deposit of the Late Jurassic Streltsovaky caldera in Transbaikalia of Russia is the largest uranium field associated with volcanics in the world, its uranium reserves are 280 000 t U, and it is the largest uranium resources in Russia. About one third of the caldera stratigraphic pile consists of strongly-altered rhyolites. Uranium resources of the Streltsovsky caldera are much larger than any other volcanic-related uranium districts in the world. Besides, the efficiency of hydrothermal alteration, uranium resources appear to result from the juxtaposition of two major uranium sources; highly fractionated peralkaline rhyolites of Jurassic age in the caldera, and U-rich subalkaline granites of Variscan age in the basement in which the major uranium-bearing accessory minerals were metamict at the time of the hydrothermal ore formation. (authors)

Process for continuous production of metallic uranium and uranium alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Hayden, Jr., Howard W.; Horton, James A.; Elliott, Guy R. B.

1995-01-01

A method is described for forming metallic uranium, or a uranium alloy, from uranium oxide in a manner which substantially eliminates the formation of uranium-containing wastes. A source of uranium dioxide is first provided, for example, by reducing uranium trioxide (UO.sub.3), or any other substantially stable uranium oxide, to form the uranium dioxide (UO.sub.2). This uranium dioxide is then chlorinated to form uranium tetrachloride (UCl.sub.4), and the uranium tetrachloride is then reduced to metallic uranium by reacting the uranium chloride with a metal which will form the chloride of the metal. This last step may be carried out in the presence of another metal capable of forming one or more alloys with metallic uranium to thereby lower the melting point of the reduced uranium product. The metal chloride formed during the uranium tetrachloride reduction step may then be reduced in an electrolysis cell to recover and recycle the metal back to the uranium tetrachloride reduction operation and the chlorine gas back to the uranium dioxide chlorination operation.

Process for continuous production of metallic uranium and uranium alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Hayden, H.W. Jr.; Horton, J.A.; Elliott, G.R.B.

1995-06-06

A method is described for forming metallic uranium, or a uranium alloy, from uranium oxide in a manner which substantially eliminates the formation of uranium-containing wastes. A source of uranium dioxide is first provided, for example, by reducing uranium trioxide (UO{sub 3}), or any other substantially stable uranium oxide, to form the uranium dioxide (UO{sub 2}). This uranium dioxide is then chlorinated to form uranium tetrachloride (UCl{sub 4}), and the uranium tetrachloride is then reduced to metallic uranium by reacting the uranium chloride with a metal which will form the chloride of the metal. This last step may be carried out in the presence of another metal capable of forming one or more alloys with metallic uranium to thereby lower the melting point of the reduced uranium product. The metal chloride formed during the uranium tetrachloride reduction step may then be reduced in an electrolysis cell to recover and recycle the metal back to the uranium tetrachloride reduction operation and the chlorine gas back to the uranium dioxide chlorination operation. 4 figs.

Contribution to uranium geochemistry in intrusive granites; Contribution a la geochimie de l'uranium dans les granites intrusifs

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Coulomb, R. [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1959-01-15

This work aims to define the position of a certain number of French granitic deposits within the field of the geochemistry of granites in general, and of the geochemistry of uranium in particular. The regions concerned are: - 3 French Hercynian ranges, in the Vendee, in Brittany and in the Morvan, - 1 African range, probably precambrian, of the Hoggar. For each range, the petrochemical framework is first of all determined and then the degree of chemical homogeneity of the rocks is evaluated. In the petrochemical groups thus obtained the geochemical behaviour of the uranium is studied. From a point of view of the geochemistry of the granites under investigation, a comparison of the laws of distribution of the major elements in the 4 ranges shows up a convergence of average composition which was not anticipated by geological and petrographic considerations alone. The statistical and geochemical distribution laws of the total uranium as a function of the petrochemical variations are established. A study of the chemical forms of uranium in the rocks has drawn an attention to the qualitative and quantitative importance of the fraction of this uranium soluble in dilute acids. We have therefore reconsidered on the one hand, the laws of distribution of the insoluble uranium, which represents essentially the uranium fixed in crystalline structures (zircon, allanite...), and we have justified on the other hand the interest presented by the soluble uranium: this, although more complex in character, presents a geochemical unity in post magmatic phenomena which makes possible to find a genetic connection between the uraniferous deposits and the intrusive massifs. Finally we have given a plan of the geochemical cycle of uranium, in which we hope to have provided some more accurate data on the igneous phase. (author) [French] Le but du travail presente est de situer sur le plan de la geochimie des granites en general, sur le plan de la geochimie de l'uranium en particulier

Near-field high-temperature transport: Evidence from the genesis of the Osamu Utsumi uranium mine, Pocos de Caldas alkaline complex, Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cathles, L.M.; Shea, M.E.

1990-01-01

The chemical, isotopic and mineralogical alteration which occurred during primary uranium ore deposition at the breccia pipe-hosted Osamu Utsumi mine, Pocos de Caldas, Brazil, was studied as a natural analogue for near-field radionuclide migration. Chemical and isotopic alteration models were combined with finite difference models of the convective cooling of caldera intrusives. Application of the chemical models successfully used to interpret mineralization and alteration at the Osamu Utsumi mine to the hypothetical waste repository shows that even in a worst case scenario (waste emplaced in a permeable host rock with no measures taken to inhibit flow through the repository), the amount of hydrothermal alteration in the hypothetical repository will be about 0.1% of that in the breccia pipe at the Osamu Utsumi mine. Assuming no barriers to uranium mobility, uranium precipitation above the hypothetical repository would be 0.05 ppm (rather than 50 ppm), hydrothermal alteration 0.03 wt.% (rather than 30 wt.%), etc. The analysis indicates that mineralogical alteration is extremely sensitive to thermodynamic data. Prediction of mineralogical alteration (which may be necessary to predict the migration of radionuclides other than uranium, for example) probably cannot be based directly on even very carefully collected laboratory thermodynamic data. Mineralogical complexities of the system, as well as database uncertainties, will require calibration of the thermodynamic framework against mineralogical alteration observed in the laboratory or field by procedures briefly described. (au)

Binuclear trivalent and tetravalent uranium halides and cyanides supported by cyclooctatetraene ligands

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang, Cong-Zhi; Wu, Qun-Yan; Lan, Jian-Hui; Shi, Wei-Qun; Gibson, John K.

2017-01-01

Although the first organoactinide chloride Cp_3UCl (Cp = η"5-C_5H_5) was synthesized more than 50 years ago, binuclear uranium halides remain very rare in organoactinide chemistry. Herein, a series of binuclear trivalent and tetravalent uranium halides and cyanides with cyclooctatetraene ligands, (COT)_2U_2X_n (COT = η"8-C_8H_8; X=F, Cl, CN; n=2, 4), have been systematically studied using scalar-relativistic density functional theory (DFT). The structures with bridging halide or cyanide ligands were predicted to be the most stable complexes of (COT)_2U_2X_n, and all the complexes show weak antiferromagnetic interactions between the uranium centers. However, for each species, there is no significant uranium-uranium bonding interaction. The bonding between the metal and the ligands shows some degree of covalent character, especially between the metal and terminal halide or cyanide ligands. The U-5f and 6d orbitals are predominantly involved in the metal-ligand bonding. All the (COT)_2U_2X_n species were predicted to be more stable compared to the mononuclear half-sandwich complexes at room temperature in the gas phase such that (COT)_2U_2X_4 might be accessible through the known (COT)_2U complex. The tetravalent derivatives (COT)_2U_2X_4 are more energetically favorable than the trivalent (COT)_2U_2X_2 analogs, which may be attributed to the greater number of strong metal-ligand bonds in the former complexes.

Project development for mining-metallurgical complexes for production of uranium concentrates - an analysis and a methodology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ajuria G, S.; Blanco P, B.; Pena A, J.; Manzanera Q, C.

1978-10-01

Activities comprising the development of a project for a mining-metallurgical complex for production of uranium concentrates, from sampling and evaluation of an orebody until plant start-up, are analyzed. The analysis of the orebody, characterization of the ore, bench scale and pilot plant metallurgical studies, environmental studies and economic analyses of the project are described. The mining project and mine preparation and engineering and construction of the plant are reviewed in less detail. The estimated time lapse for the development of a typical project under ideal conditions is 66 months. A bar diagram is included showing an approximate timetable for each activity. (author)

Technical Basis For Radiological Acceptance Criteria For Uranium At The Y-12 National Security Complex

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Veinot, K. G.

2009-07-22

The purpose of this report is to establish radiological acceptance criteria for uranium. Other factors for acceptance not considered include criticality safety concerns, contaminants to the process stream, and impacts to the Safety Basis for the affected facilities. Three types of criteria were developed in this report. They include limits on external penetrating and non-penetrating radiation and on the internal hazard associated with inhalation of the material. These criteria are intended to alleviate the need for any special controls beyond what are normally utilized for worker protection from uranium hazards. Any proposed exceptions would require case-by-case evaluations to determine cost impacts and feasibility. Since Y-12 has set rigorous ALARA goals for worker doses, the external limits are based on assumptions of work time involved in the movement of accepted material plus the desire that external doses normally received are not exceeded, and set so that no special personnel monitoring would be required. Internal hazard controls were established so that dose contributions from non-uranium nuclides would not exceed 10% of that expected from the uranium component. This was performed using a Hazard Index (HI) previously established for work in areas contaminated with non-uranium nuclides. The radiological acceptance criteria for uranium are summarized in Table 1. Note that these limits are based on the assumption that radioactive daughter products have reached equilibrium.

Uranium: War, Energy and the Rock That Shaped the World; Uranium: la biographie

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zoellner, T.

2009-07-01

Having traveled extensively through the savannah of Africa, the mountains of Eastern Europe, and the deserts of Utah, the author delves into the complex science, politics and history of uranium, which presents the best and worst of mankind: the capacity for scientific progress and political genius; the capacity for nihilism, exploitation, and terror. Because the author covers so much ground, from the discovery of radioactivity, through the development of the atomic bomb, he does not go into great depth on any one topic. Nonetheless, he paints vivid pictures of uranium's impact, including forced labor in Soviet mines and lucky prospectors who struck it rich in harsh environments, the spread of uranium smuggling, as well as an explanation of why it was absurd to claim that Saddam Hussein was attempting to purchase significant quantities of uranium from Niger. The only shortcoming is the author's omission of the issue of radioactive wastes generated by nuclear power. The author knows well what uranium looks like, why peril pulses in its every atom, and how scientists exploit its nuclear volatility. The drama is found in the weaponry uranium has spawned as demonstrated at Hiroshima and Nagasaki. In pursuit of this raw power, the U.S. let Navajos die extracting needed ore and let southwestern cities sicken beneath clouds from reckless testing. The Soviet Union sentenced tens of thousands to lethal gulag mines. Israel diverted ore through deception on the high seas. Pakistan stole European refining technology. Alive with devious personalities, the author's narrative ultimately exposes the frightening vulnerability of a world with too many sources of a dangerous substance and too little wisdom to control it

Interactions of uranium (VI) with biofilms

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brockmann, Sina; Arnold, Thuro; Bernhard, Gert

2013-01-01

In this study a detailed investigation was made of natural biofilms from two uranium-contaminated sites, namely the former uranium mine in Koenigstein (Saxony) and the ground surface of the former Grassenhalde tailing heap in Thuringia. A predominance of uranyl sulphate (UO 2 SO 4 ), a highly mobile, solute uranium species, was found in the mine waters of both sites. In this study an investigation was made of the capacity of Euglena mutabilis cells for bioaccumulation of uranium in a pH range of 3 to 6 using living cells and sodium perchlorate (9 g/l) or sodium sulphate (3.48 g/l) as background media. At acidic pH values in the range from 3 to 4 it was possible to remove more than 90% of the original uranium content from the test solution regardless of the medium being used. The speciation of the uranium accumulated in the Euglena cells was investigated by laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (LIFS). It was found that a new uranium species of low variability forms on the cells independent of the background medium, state of life of the cells and pH value. By comparing the data from the LIFS measurements with reference values it was possible to narrow down the identity of the uranium species to one bonded to (organo) phosphate and/or carboxylic functional groups. Using time-resolved FT-IR spectroscopy it was possible to demonstrate carboxylic bonding of uranium to dead cells. However it was not possible to exclude (organo) complexation with this method. An investigation of the specific location of the uranium on or in the cells using combined CLSM/LIFS technology yielded first indications of intracellular accumulation of uranium in the living cells. Supplementary TEM/EDX measurements confirmed the intracellular uptake, showing it to occur in round to oval cell organelles which are thought to be vacuoles or vacuole-like vesicles. It was not possible to detect uranium on dead cells using these methods. This points to passive, homogeneously distributed biosorption of

Biosorption of uranium on Bacillus sp. dwc-2: preliminary investigation on mechanism

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Li, Xiaolong; Ding, Congcong; Liao, Jiali; Lan, Tu; Li, Feize; Zhang, Dong; Yang, Jijun; Yang, Yuanyou; Luo, Shunzhong; Tang, Jun; Liu, Ning

2014-01-01

In this paper, the biosorption mechanisms of uranium on an aerobic Bacillus sp. dwc-2, isolated from a potential disposal site for (ultra-) low uraniferous radioactive waste in Southwest China, was explored by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, proton induced X-ray emission (PIXE) and enhanced proton backscattering spectrometry (EPBS). The biosorption experiments for uranium were carried out at a low pH (pH 3.0), where the uranium solution speciation is dominated by highly mobile uranyl ions. The bioaccumulation was found to be the potential mechanism involved in uranium biosorption by Bacillus sp. dwc-2, and the bioaccumulated uranium was deposited in the cell interior as needle shaped particles at pH 3.0, as revealed by TEM analysis as well as EDX spectra. FTIR analysis further suggested that the absorbed uranium was bound to amino, phosphate and carboxyl groups of bacterial cells. Additionally, PIXE and EPBS results confirmed that ion-exchange also contributed to the adsorption process of uranium. All the results implied that the biosorption mechanism of uranium on Bacillus sp. is complicated and at least involves bioaccumulation, ion exchange and complexation process. - Highlights: • We examined U (VI) biosorption by a bacterial strain isolated from Southwest China. • We studied the involved mechanisms between uranium and this bacterium. • U (VI) was intracellularly bioaccumulated as needlelike granules by this bacterium. • The biosorption mechanisms involved ion exchange, complexation and bioccumulation

Uranium mobility in the natural environment - evidence from sedimentary roll-front deposits

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Deutsch, W.J.; Serne, R.J.

1983-04-01

Roll-front deposits consist of naturally occurring ore-grade uranium in selected sandstone aquifers throughout the world. The geochemical environment of these roll-front deposits is analogous to the environment of a radioactive waste repository containing redox-sensitive elements during its post-thermal period. The ore deposits are formed by a combination of dissolution, complexation, sorption/precipitation, and mineral formation processes. The uranium, leached from the soil by percolating rainwater, complexes with dissolved carbonate and moves in the oxidizing ground water at very low concentration (parts per billion) levels. The uranium is extracted from the leaching solution by the chemical processes, over long periods of time, at the interfaces between oxidized and reduced sediments. The Eh of the ground water associated with the reduced sediments (Eh = -100 mv to +100 mv) is higher than the Eh expected for most waste repository environments (Eh = -100 mv to -300 mv); this suggests that uranium solids will not be very soluble in the repositories. Data from in-situ leach mining and restoration of roll-front uranium deposits also provide information on the potential mobility of the waste if oxidizing ground water should enter the repository. Uranium solids probably will be initially very soluble in carbonate ground water; however, as reducing conditions are re-estblished through water/rock interactions, the uranium will reprecipitate and the amount of uranium in solution will again equilibrate with the reduced uranium minerals

Spectroscopic studies on colloid-borne uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ulrich, K.U.; Weiss, S.; Foerstendorf, H.; Brendler, V.; Zaenker, H.; Rossberg, A.; Scheinost, A.C.

2005-01-01

Full text of publication follows: Information on molecular speciation provides a basis for the reliable assessment of actinide migration in the environment. We use several methods for the separation of colloids from liquids (e.g. ultracentrifugation, ultrafiltration) in combination with spectroscopic techniques (EXAFS, ATR-FTIR, Moessbauer) and modeling of surface complexation reactions. This enables us to investigate the speciation of colloid-borne uranium in waters occurring in or escaping from abandoned uranium mines during the remediation process. Mine flooding was simulated on a 100 L scale by mixing acid mine water of elevated U concentration with oxic, near-neutral groundwater until pH ∼ 5.5 was reached. The freshly formed colloids adsorbed 95% of the total uranium and consisted mainly of 2-line ferri-hydrite (Fh) besides traces of aluminum, sulfur, silica, and carbon compounds. EXAFS analysis at the U-LIII absorption edge suggested a bidentate surface complex of UO 2 2+ on FeO 6 octahedra, but two minor backscattering contributions in close vicinity to the absorber remained unexplained. Since only Al could be excluded as backscattering atom, we studied U sorption on Fh at pH 5.5 in presence and in absence of sulfate, silicate, and atmospheric CO 2 to clarify the bond structure. EXAFS showed the unknown backscattering contributions in all the sorption samples regardless of the presence or absence of the tested components. Contrary to structural models proposed in the literature, bi-dentately complexed carbonate ligands do not explain our experimental EXAFS data. But ATR-IR spectra showed that U-carbonato complexes must be involved in the sorption of uranyl on Fh. These results are not contradictory if the carbonate ligands were bound mono-dentately. Nevertheless, carbon cannot act as backscattering atom in carbonate-free samples prepared in N 2 atmosphere. We propose a new structural model including exclusively Fe, H, and O atoms in which the bi

Study and Elimination of the Interference of Aluminium on the Voltammetric Determination of Uranium with Chloranilic Acid. Application to the Determination of Uranium in Waters and Geological Samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fernandez, C.; Sanchez, M.; Ballesteros, O.; Fernandez, M.; Clavero, M. A.; Gonzalez, A. M.

2000-01-01

The interference of aluminium during the voltammetric determination of uranium with 2,5-dichloro-3,6-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoquinone (chloranilic acid) has been investigated. The presence of aluminium originates a voltammetric signal due to its chloranilic acid complex at the same potential range as the uranium analytical signal appears. The interference of aluminium can be overcome by addition of an appropriate amount of sodium fluoride as complexing reagent. The determination of uranium by adsorptive stripping voltammetry (AdSV) can be carried out at concentration levels as low as 1 μg/L in the presence of 100 μg/L aluminium after the addition of 100μL of 0.1 mol/L NaF. The method can be applied to the determination of uranium in aluminium-containing waters and geological samples containing high aluminium levels. (Author) 19 refs

Uranium mineralization environment and prospecting potential of Dawan ore field in Nanling metallogenic belt

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yang Shanghai

2011-01-01

Located in the middle part of Jiuyishan complex pluton, Nanling metallogenic belt, Dawan uranium ore field in Hunan Province is an important uranium-producing and rare metal, nonferrous metal cluster area due to the favourable mineralization environment. The Cambrian is the main uranium source bed and their contact zone to the pluton is the favorable part for mineralization. The uranium deposits which have been explored are all located in the exocontact zone of Jinjiling pluton in the middle part of Jiuyishan complex pluton which is composed of the independent eastern and western magma evolution centers. In the west center, Jinjiling pluton is closely related to uranium mineralization where the trinity geologic setting was formed with magma evolution, hydrothermal fluid action and mineralization. The deep slitted and large faults provide the pathway and thermodynamic source for circulating migration of mineralizing fluid. The uranium mineralization mainly occurred in crustal stress conversion period of Late Cretaceous and related to the tensive NW extending fault and deep originated fluid. The gravity, aero magnetic, airborne gamma-ray spectrometry anomalies and radioactivity hydrochemical anomaly are important criteria for uranium prospecting. Based on the analysis of regional uranium mineralization environment, the prospecting potential is forecasted. (authors)

Regulatory impacts on the Canadian uranium industry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Frost, S.E.

2001-01-01

The development of environmental and safety regulation in Canada is described and the impacts of these developments on various phases of the uranium industry are examined. In the past 25 years, seven new uranium mining projects, major expansions to four projects, and five uranium refining/conversion projects have undergone environmental assessment in Canada. As regulations and the processes for applying them have developed, the size, complexity and cost of obtaining operating approvals for uranium projects have increased exponentially. Uranium projects are subject to a level of scrutiny that goes far beyond what can be justified by their potential for environmental damage, based primarily on a perceived degree of public concern, rather than any objective measure of environmental risk. The author believes that it is time to re-examine our priorities, to establish some balance between the risks of a project and the assessment effort required. Otherwise, we shall soon find ourselves in the position where smaller projects will never be developed because they cannot cover the regulatory costs. (author)

The use of tetracycline as complexing agent for the separation of interfering elements during uranium activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Petrauskas, R.

1984-01-01

A method was developed for uranium separation, when its determination could not be performed by non-destructive neutron activation analysis due to the presence of interfering elements. Th, Zn, Na, Ta, Fe, W, Mo, Ag and the lanthanides were considered interferents because some of these elements, via (n, γ) reactions, form the same radioisotopes produced in the fission of 235 U, or radioisotopes that emit gamma-rays with energies close to the ones emitted by 239 Np or by the fission products of 235 U. Besides they could form radioisotopes whose Compton continuum makes difficult the detection of the gamma-rays of 239 Np and the fission products of 235 U. The separation method is based on the extraction of uranium from the interfering elements using a solution of tetracycline in benzyl alcohol. Adequate conditions for the separation were studied and extraction curves of uranium and interferents were obtained separately and in the presence of a solution of uranium ore from the IAEA. Separation of uranium from Na, Ag and Zn was achieved with a single extraction operation and by controlling the pH of the aqueous phase. Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid was used as masking agent for uranium separation from Fe, Th and lanthanides. For other elements, the separation was partial, meaning that about 11% of W, 32% of Mo and 5% of Ta were extracted together with uranium after two extraction operations (extraction and washing). Chemical separation presented a recovery of 97% for uranium. After separation an aliquot of organic phase containing uranium was irradiated for uranium and isotopic ratio 235 U/ 238 U determinations. This method was applied in the analysis of the following ores: standard S-7 (pitchblende) provided by IAEA, monazite and an ore called 'goianita' from the state of Goias (GO, Brazil). The accuracy and precision of results were discussed, and the isotopic ratio results indicated that the ores analysed present an isotopic abundance of natural uranium. (Author

The assisting system for uranium enrichment plant operation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nakazawa, Hiroaki; Yamamoto, Fumio

1990-01-01

We have been developing an operation assisting system, partially supported by AI system, for uranium enrichment plant. The AI system is a proto-type system aiming a final one which can be applied to any future large uranium enrichment plant and also not only to specific operational area but also to complex and multi-phenomenon operational area. An existing AI system, for example facility diagnostic system that utilizes the result of CCT analysis as knowledge base, has weakness in flexibility and potentiality. To build AI system, we have developed the most suitable knowledge representations using deep knowledge for each facility or operation of uranium enrichment plant. This paper describes our AI proto-type system adopting several knowledge representations that can represent an uranium enrichment plant's operation with deep knowledge. (author)

Uranium uptake history, open-system behaviour and uranium-series ages of fossil Tridacna gigas from Huon Peninsula, Papua New Guinea

Science.gov (United States)

Ayling, Bridget F.; Eggins, Stephen; McCulloch, Malcolm T.; Chappell, John; Grün, Rainer; Mortimer, Graham

2017-09-01

Molluscs incorporate negligible uranium into their skeleton while they are living, with any uranium uptake occurring post-mortem. As such, closed-system U-series dating of molluscs is unlikely to provide reliable age constraints for marine deposits. Even the application of open-system U-series modelling is challenging, because uranium uptake and loss histories can affect time-integrated uranium distributions and are difficult to constrain. We investigate the chemical and isotopic distribution of uranium in fossil Tridacna gigas (giant clams) from Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 5e (128-116 ka) and MIS 11 (424-374 ka) reefs at Huon Peninsula in Papua New Guinea. The large size of the clams enables detailed chemical and isotopic mapping of uranium using LA-ICPMS and LA-MC-ICPMS techniques. Within each fossil Tridacna specimen, marked differences in uranium concentrations are observed across the three Tridacna growth zones (outer, inner, hinge), with the outer and hinge zones being relatively enriched. In MIS 5e and MIS 11 Tridacna, the outer and hinge zones contain approximately 1 ppm and 5 ppm uranium respectively. In addition to uptake of uranium, loss of uranium appears prevalent, especially in the MIS 11 specimens. The effect of uranium loss is to elevate measured [230Th/238U] values with little effect on [234U/238U] values. Closed-system age estimates are on average 50% too young for the MIS 5e Tridacna, and 25% too young for the MIS 11 Tridacna. A complex, multi-stage uptake and loss history is interpreted for the fossil Tridacna and we demonstrate that they cannot provide independent, reliable geochronological controls on the timing of past reef growth at Huon Peninsula.

Thorium and uranium separation from Rare Earth complex minerals in Turkey

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uzmen, R.

2014-01-01

Conclusion: • Thorium and uranium separation from a REEs solution is possible in by using simple traditional methods. • Main advantage of this method is to separate with high recovery yield uraniumand almost completely thorium which is an undesirable element due to its radioactive property in the different REEs group or individual REE. • Separation of thorium before any other step of REE’s group or individual element separation is crucial. • By using this flowsheet it would be possible to obtain uranium and other valuable elements (Zr, Ti, etc.) as coproducts of REEs. • Another important point, during REEs production, it is avoided to accumalate U and Th contaminated process wastes. • Thus, in the contrary, radioactive elements are refined and contained for safe storage.

Optimization of dissolution process parameters for uranium ore concentrate powders

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Misra, M.; Reddy, D.M.; Reddy, A.L.V.; Tiwari, S.K.; Venkataswamy, J.; Setty, D.S.; Sheela, S.; Saibaba, N. [Nuclear Fuel Complex, Hyderabad (India)

2013-07-01

Nuclear fuel complex processes Uranium Ore Concentrate (UOC) for producing uranium dioxide powder required for the fabrication of fuel assemblies for Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)s in India. UOC is dissolved in nitric acid and further purified by solvent extraction process for producing nuclear grade UO{sub 2} powder. Dissolution of UOC in nitric acid involves complex nitric oxide based reactions, since it is in the form of Uranium octa oxide (U{sub 3}O{sub 8}) or Uranium Dioxide (UO{sub 2}). The process kinetics of UOC dissolution is largely influenced by parameters like concentration and flow rate of nitric acid, temperature and air flow rate and found to have effect on recovery of nitric oxide as nitric acid. The plant scale dissolution of 2 MT batch in a single reactor is studied and observed excellent recovery of oxides of nitrogen (NO{sub x}) as nitric acid. The dissolution process is automated by PLC based Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for accurate control of process parameters and successfully dissolved around 200 Metric Tons of UOC. The paper covers complex chemistry involved in UOC dissolution process and also SCADA system. The solid and liquid reactions were studied along with multiple stoichiometry of nitrous oxide generated. (author)

Dissolution of uranium oxide TBP-HNO3 complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mizuno, Mineo; Kosaka, Yuji; Mori, Yukihide; Shimada, Takashi

2002-12-01

As a head end process for the pulverization of the spent fuel, the mechanical method (the shredder method) and the pyro-chemical method (oxidisation heat-treatment) have been examined. UO 2 is a main ingredient of Uranium oxide powder by the mechanical method, and U 3 O 8 is that by the pyro-chemical method. Moreover, the particle size of the pulverized powder depend on the conditions of the pulverizing process. As it was considered that the difference of dissolution rates of samples was caused by the difference of sample chemical forms and dissolution temperature, parametric surveys on chemical form and particle size of powder and dissolution temperature were carried out, and the following results were obtained. 1) The remarkable difference of dissolution rate between U 3 O 8 powder (average particle size 3.7 μm) and UO 2 powder (average particle size 2.4 μm) which have comparatively similar particle size was not observed. 2) It was confirmed that the dissolution rate became lower according to the particle size increase (average particle size 2.4 μm-1 mm). And it was considered that dissolution rate had strong dependency on particle size, according to the results that the powder with 1 mm particle size did not dissolute completely after 5 hours test. 3) The temperature dependency of the dissolution rate was confirmed by dissolution test with UO 2 powder (average particle size 2.4 μm-1 mm). The higher dissolution rate was obtained in the higher dissolution temperature, and 11 kcal/mol was obtained as activation energy of dissolution. 4) In the dissolution test of UO 2 powder, the nitric acid concentration started to change earlier than that of U 3 O 8 powder and concentration change range became larger compared with that in the dissolution test of U 3 O 8 powder. It was considered that those differences were caused by difference in mole ratio of Uranium and nitric acid which are consumed in the dissolution reaction (3:7 for U 3 O 8 , 3:8 for UO 2 ). 5) In case

X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy Identifies Calcium-Uranyl-Carbonate Complexes at Environmental Concentrations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kelly, Shelly D.; Kemner, Kenneth M.; Brooks, Scott C.

2007-01-01

Current research on bioremediation of uranium-contaminated groundwater focuses on supplying indigenous metal-reducing bacteria with the appropriate metabolic requirements to induce microbiological reduction of soluble uranium(VI) to poorly soluble uranium(IV). Recent studies of uranium(VI) bioreduction in the presence of environmentally relevant levels of calcium revealed limited and slowed uranium(VI) reduction and the formation of a Ca-UO2-CO3 complex. However, the stoichiometry of the complex is poorly defined and may be complicated by the presence of a Na-UO2-CO3 complex. Such a complex might exist even at high calcium concentrations, as some UO2-CO3 complexes will still be present. The number of calcium and/or sodium atoms coordinated to a uranyl carbonate complex will determine the net charge of the complex. Such a change in aqueous speciation of uranium(VI) in calcareous groundwater may affect the fate and transport properties of uranium. In this paper, we present the results from X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurements of a series of solutions containing 50 lM uranium(VI) and 30 mM sodium bicarbonate, with various calcium concentrations of 0-5 mM. Use of the data series reduces the uncertainty in the number of calcium atoms bound to the UO2-CO3 complex to approximately 0.6 and enables spectroscopic identification of the Na-UO2-CO3 complex. At nearly neutral pH values, the numbers of sodium and calcium atoms bound to the uranyl triscarbonate species are found to depend on the calcium concentration, as predicted by speciation calculations

Recovery of uranium from crude uranium tetrafluoride

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ghosh, S K; Bellary, M P; Keni, V S [Chemical Engineering Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai (India)

1994-06-01

An innovative process has been developed for recovery of uranium from crude uranium tetrafluoride cake. The process is based on direct dissolution of uranium tetrafluoride in nitric acid in presence of aluminium hydroxide and use of solvent extraction for removal of fluorides and other bulk impurities to make uranium amenable for refining. It is a simple process requiring minimum process step and has advantage of lesser plant corrosion. This process can be applied for processing of uranium tetrafluoride generated from various sources like uranium by-product during thorium recovery from thorium concentrate, first stage product of uranium recovery from phosphoric acid by OPPA process and off grade uranium tetrafluoride material. The paper describes the details of the process developed and demonstrated on bench and pilot scale and its subsequent modification arising out of bulky solid waste generation. The modified process uses a lower quantity of aluminium hydroxide by allowing a lower dissolution of uranium per cycle and recycles the undissolved material to the next cycle, maintaining the overall recovery at high level. This innovation has reduced the solid waste generated by a factor of four at the cost of a slightly larger dissolution vessel and its increased corrosion rate. (author). 4 refs., 1 fig., 3 tabs.

Recovery of uranium from crude uranium tetrafluoride

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ghosh, S.K.; Bellary, M.P.; Keni, V.S.

1994-01-01

An innovative process has been developed for recovery of uranium from crude uranium tetrafluoride cake. The process is based on direct dissolution of uranium tetrafluoride in nitric acid in presence of aluminium hydroxide and use of solvent extraction for removal of fluorides and other bulk impurities to make uranium amenable for refining. It is a simple process requiring minimum process step and has advantage of lesser plant corrosion. This process can be applied for processing of uranium tetrafluoride generated from various sources like uranium by-product during thorium recovery from thorium concentrate, first stage product of uranium recovery from phosphoric acid by OPPA process and off grade uranium tetrafluoride material. The paper describes the details of the process developed and demonstrated on bench and pilot scale and its subsequent modification arising out of bulky solid waste generation. The modified process uses a lower quantity of aluminium hydroxide by allowing a lower dissolution of uranium per cycle and recycles the undissolved material to the next cycle, maintaining the overall recovery at high level. This innovation has reduced the solid waste generated by a factor of four at the cost of a slightly larger dissolution vessel and its increased corrosion rate. (author)

Atomic-scale Studies of Uranium Oxidation and Corrosion by Water Vapour

OpenAIRE

T. L. Martin; C. Coe; P. A. J. Bagot; P. Morrall; G. D. W Smith; T. Scott; M. P. Moody

2016-01-01

Understanding the corrosion of uranium is important for its safe, long-term storage. Uranium metal corrodes rapidly in air, but the exact mechanism remains subject to debate. Atom Probe Tomography was used to investigate the surface microstructure of metallic depleted uranium specimens following polishing and exposure to moist air. A complex, corrugated metal-oxide interface was observed, with approximately 60 at.% oxygen content within the oxide. Interestingly, a very thin (∼5 nm) interfacia...

Translocation of uranium from water to foodstuff while cooking

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Krishnapriya, K.C.; Baksi, Ananya; Chaudhari, Swathi; Gupta, Soujit Sen; Pradeep, T.

2015-10-30

Highlights: • Rice can efficiently uptake uranium from water contaminated with uranyl nitrate hexahydrate (UO{sub 2}(NO{sub 3}) 2.6 H{sub 2}O), while cooking. • Unusual uranium uptake to the extent of about 1000 ppm is observed when rice is cooked in highly concentrated uranium contaminated water (1240 ppm). • Nature of interaction of uranium with carbohydrates is probed using small monosaccharides like glucose and mannose. • Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry showed UO{sub 2}{sup 2+} to be the most stable species in water in such solutions which can form complexes with sugars. • The species (UO{sub 2}{sup 2+}) is also observed in the case of water exposed to the common mineral, uranium oxide (UO{sub 2}) and similar type of complexation is observed with sugars. - Abstract: The present work report the unusual uranium uptake by foodstuff, especially those rich in carbohydrates like rice when they are cooked in water, contaminated with uranium. The major staple diet in South Asia, rice, was chosen to study its interaction with UO{sub 2}{sup 2+}, the active uranium species in water, using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Highest uptake limit was checked by cooking rice at very high uranium concentration and it was found to be good scavenger of uranium. To gain insight into the mechanism of uptake, direct interaction of UO{sub 2}{sup 2+} with monosaccharides was also studied, using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry taking mannose as a model. The studies have been done with dissolved uranium salt, uranyl nitrate hexahydrate (UO{sub 2}(NO{sub 3}){sub 2}·6H{sub 2}O), as well as the leachate of a stable oxide of uranium, UO{sub 2}(s), both of which exist as UO{sub 2}{sup 2+} in water. Among the eight different rice varieties investigated, Karnataka Ponni showed the maximum uranium uptake whereas unpolished Basmati rice showed the minimum. Interaction with other foodstuffs (potato, carrot, peas, kidney beans and lentils) with and

Meeting of the French geological society - Uranium: geology, geophysics, chemistry. Book of abstracts; Reunion de la Societe Geologique de France - Uranium: geologie, geophysique, chimie. Recueil des resumes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zakari, A.A.; Mima, S.; Bidaud, A.; Criqui, P.; Menanteau, P.; David, S.; Pagel, M.; Chagnes, A.; Cote, G.; Courtaud, B.; Thiry, J.; Miehe, J.M.; Gilbert, F.; Cuney, M.; Bruneton, P.; Ewington, D.; Vautrin-Ul, C.; Cannizzo, C.; Betelu, S.; Chausse, A.; Ly, J.; Bourgeois, D.; Maynadie, J.; Meyer, D.; Clavier, N.; Costin, D.T.; Cretaz, F.; Szenknect, S.; Ravaux, J.; Poinssot, C.; Dacheux, N.; Durupt, N.; Blanvillain, J.J.; Geffroy, F.; Aparicio, B.; Dubessy, J.; Nguyen-Trung, C.; Robert, P.; Uri, F.; Beaufort, D.; Lescuyer, J.L.; Morichon, E.; Allard, T.; Milesi, J.P.; Richard, A.; Rozsypal, C.; Mercadier, J.; Banks, D.A.; Boiron, M.C.; Cathelineau, M.; Dardel, J.; Billon, S.; Patrier, P.; Wattinne, A.; Vanderhaeghe, O.; Fabre, C.; Castillo, M.; Salvi, S.; Beziat, D.; Williams-Jones, A.E.; Trap, P.; Durand, C.; Goncalves, P.; Marquer, D.; Feybesse, J.L.; Richard, Y.; Orberger, B.; Hofmann, A.; Megneng, M.; Orberger, B.; Bouttemy, M.; Vigneron, J.; Etcheberry, A.; Perdicakis, M.; Prignon, N.; Toe, W.; Andre-Mayer, A.S.; Eglinger, A.; Jordaan, T.; Hocquet, S.; Ledru, P.; Selezneva, V.; Vendryes, G.; Lach, P.; Cuney, M.; Mercadier, J.; Brouand, M.; Duran, C.; Seydoux-Guillaume, A.M.; Bingen, B.; Parseval, P. de; Guillaume, D.; Bosse, V.; Paquette, J.L.; Ingrin, J.; Montel, J.M.; Giot, R.; Maucotel, F.; Hubert, S.; Gautheron, C.; Tassan-Got, L.; Pagel, M.; Barbarand, J.; Cuney, M.; Lach, P.; Bonhoure, J.; Leisen, M.; Kister, P.; Salaun, A.; Villemant, B.; Gerard, M.; Komorowski, J.C.; Michel, A.; Riegler, T.; Tartese, R.; Boulvais, P.; Poujols, M.; Gloaguen, E.; Mazzanti, M.; Mougel, V.; Nocton, G.; Biswas, B.; Pecaut, J.; Othmane, G.; Menguy, N.; Vercouter, T.; Morin, G.; Galoisy, L.; Calas, G.; Fayek, M.

2010-11-15

This document brings together the abstracts of the 39 presentations given at this meeting days on uranium, organized by the French geological society, and dealing with: 1 - Prospective study of the electronuclear technological transition; 2 - The front-end of the nuclear cycle: from the molecule to the process; 3 - Geophysics: recent changes; 4 - Use of well logging in uranium exploration; 5 - Genetical classification of thorium deposits; 6 - Genetical nomenclature of uranium sources; 7 - Uranium deposits linked to a Proterozoic discordance - retrospective; 8 - The use of spectral analysis techniques in uranium exploration: real-time mapping of clay alteration features; 9 - Development of functionalized silk-screened carbon electrodes for the analysis of uranium trace amounts; 10 - Study of the actinides solvation sphere in organic environment; 11 - Thermodynamic of uraniferous phases of interest for the nuclear cycle; 12 - Heap leaching of marginal minerals at Somair: from lab studies to the production of 700 t of uranium/year; 13 - Agglomeration phenomenology and role of iron in uranium heap leaching; 14 - Chloride uranyl complexes up to 300 deg. C along the saturation vapour curve: Raman spectroscopy analysis and metallogenic consequences; 15 - Weathering systems in the Shea Creek deposit (Athabasca, Canada): vertical variability of argillaceous weathering; 16 - Weathering systems in the Shea Creek deposit (Athabasca, Canada): contribution of irradiation defects in clays to the tracing of past uranium migrations; 17 - Uranium concentrations in mineralizing fluids of the Athabasca basin: analytical and experimental approach; 18 - Paleo-surfaces and metallic rooting: the autochthonous uranium of pre-Athabasca paleo-alterites, Canada; 19 - Distribution of argillaceous parageneses in the Imouraren deposit - Niger; 20 - Heat flux and radioelements concentration (U, Th, K) of precambrian basements: implications in terms of crust growth mechanisms, paleo

The South Greenland regional uranium exploration programme

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Armour-Brown, A.; Tukiainen, T.; Nyegaard, P.; Wallin, B.

1984-02-01

This report describes the work and results of the last two field seasons (1080 and 1982) of the Syduran Project. The field work was concentrated in the Motzfeldt Centre and the Granite zone with a short reconnaissance of five uranium anomalies in the Migmatite Complex. The results from the Motzfeldt Centre show that it is composed of at least 6 syenite units which can be divided into two major phases of igneous activity. The radioactive mineralisation has been mapped by gamma-spectrometer and has proved to be very extensive. Uranium mineral occurrences found in the Granite Zone occur in the many faults and fractures, which dissect the area. A study of the fractures and fault movements in the zone makes it possible to suggest an overall structural framework in which to place the uranium occurrences in the zone. Field work on the Igaliko peninsula was confined to a small area known as Puissagtag where four pitchblende veins have been discovered. Numerous uraniferous showings, associated with fractures, have been located in the Vatnaverfi peninsula south of the Igaliko Fjord. Mineralogical studies have shown that 12 of these showings contain pitchblende, that 7 of them contain coffinite and that most of them contain brannerite. The most interesting find during the 1982 field season was in the Migmatite Complex. Five anomalously high uranium areas in the complex were explored briefly with the helicopter-borne scintillometer. Near a place called Igdlorssuit, where a particlarly high gamma-spectrometer anomaly was found during the reconnaissance gamma-spectrometer survey, a large raft of meta-sediments in rapakivi granite was found, in which radioactive mineralisation occurred. This proved to be due to fine disseminated uraninite which occurs over some 150 m of strike length with a width of 1-2 m. The results confirm that there is a good possibility of finding exploitable uranium mineral occurrences in South Greenland. (author)

Binuclear trivalent and tetravalent uranium halides and cyanides supported by cyclooctatetraene ligands

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wang, Cong-Zhi; Wu, Qun-Yan; Lan, Jian-Hui; Shi, Wei-Qun [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing (China). Laboratory of Nuclear Energy Chemistry and Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety; Chai, Zhi-Fang [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing (China). Laboratory of Nuclear Energy Chemistry and Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety; Soochow Univ., Suzhou (China). School of Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X); Gibson, John K. [Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, CA (United States). Chemical Sciences Division

2017-03-01

Although the first organoactinide chloride Cp{sub 3}UCl (Cp = η{sup 5}-C{sub 5}H{sub 5}) was synthesized more than 50 years ago, binuclear uranium halides remain very rare in organoactinide chemistry. Herein, a series of binuclear trivalent and tetravalent uranium halides and cyanides with cyclooctatetraene ligands, (COT){sub 2}U{sub 2}X{sub n} (COT = η{sup 8}-C{sub 8}H{sub 8}; X=F, Cl, CN; n=2, 4), have been systematically studied using scalar-relativistic density functional theory (DFT). The structures with bridging halide or cyanide ligands were predicted to be the most stable complexes of (COT){sub 2}U{sub 2}X{sub n}, and all the complexes show weak antiferromagnetic interactions between the uranium centers. However, for each species, there is no significant uranium-uranium bonding interaction. The bonding between the metal and the ligands shows some degree of covalent character, especially between the metal and terminal halide or cyanide ligands. The U-5f and 6d orbitals are predominantly involved in the metal-ligand bonding. All the (COT){sub 2}U{sub 2}X{sub n} species were predicted to be more stable compared to the mononuclear half-sandwich complexes at room temperature in the gas phase such that (COT){sub 2}U{sub 2}X{sub 4} might be accessible through the known (COT){sub 2}U complex. The tetravalent derivatives (COT){sub 2}U{sub 2}X{sub 4} are more energetically favorable than the trivalent (COT){sub 2}U{sub 2}X{sub 2} analogs, which may be attributed to the greater number of strong metal-ligand bonds in the former complexes.

Initial process development for uranium bioprecipitation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Truex, M.; Peyton, B.; Gorby, Y.; Valentine, N.

1994-01-01

Some bacteria can destabilize soluble metal complexes by enzymatically reducing the metal to a valence state where insoluble compounds are formed. For instance, oxidized uranium (VI) is highly soluble, but it precipitates from solution as the U(IV) oxide uraninite after microbial reduction. The advantage of this technology is that the uranium is easily separated from the aqueous phase, resulting in a small volume of relatively pure uraninite waste. A dissimilatory iron-reducing bacterium capable of uranium reduction was found to have a maximum growth rate of 0.142/hr, a Monod half-saturation constant of 3.4 mg/L, and a cellular yield of 0.071 mg-biomass/mg-iron for iron reduction at 30 C and pH 6.8. The kinetics of iron reduction were used to predict the performance of several reactor configurations for reduction of metals of interest such as uranium. A stirred-tank reactor in series with a plug-flow reactor was determined to be the best configuration for application of the bioprecipitation technology in a continuous-flow process

Reduction of uranium hexafluoride to uranium tetrafluoride

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chang, I.S.; Do, J.B.; Choi, Y.D.; Park, M.H.; Yun, H.H.; Kim, E.H.; Kim, Y.W.

1982-01-01

The single step continuous reduction of uranium hexafluoride (UF 6 ) to uranium tetrafluoride (UF 4 ) has been investigated. Heat required to initiate and maintain the reaction in the reactor is supplied by the highly exothermic reaction of hydrogen with a small amount of elemental fluorine which is added to the uranium hexafluoride stream. When gases uranium hexafluoride and hydrogen react in a vertical monel pipe reactor, the green product, UF 4 has 2.5g/cc in bulk density and is partly contaminated by incomplete reduction products (UF 5 ,U 2 F 9 ) and the corrosion product, presumably, of monel pipe of the reactor itself, but its assay (93% of UF 4 ) is acceptable for the preparation of uranium metal with magnesium metal. Remaining problems are the handling of uranium hexafluoride, which is easily clogging the flowmeter and gas feeding lines because of extreme sensitivity toward moisture, and a development of gas nozzel for free flow of uranium hexafluoride gas. (Author)

Proterozoic strata-bound uranium deposits of Zambia and Zaire

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Meneghel, L.

1984-01-01

The Katanga System, host to uranium and copper mineralisation, is several thousands of metres thick and rests unconformably on an older complex of crystalline rocks and metasediments and is locally covered by Karoo sandstones or Kalahari sands. The deposition of the Katanga System took place during the Late Proterozoic in a wide complex basin extending from Shaba province in Zaire through a large part of Zambia and into eastern Angola. The sediments were affected by different grades of metamorphism, tectonic events, and by thermal events associated with post-tectonic metamorphism. At the base of Katanga system there are 84 known copper deposits and 42 uranium occurrences. It is suggested that all the known uranium and copper occurrences are of an essentially syngenetic sedimentary origin. The mineralisation is found in the Lower Roan Formation near the base of the Katanga System occurring in rocks produced in similar environmental conditions and thus being stratigraphic controlled, however, their areal distribution is localised producing a regional metal zonation. Many of the uranium occurrences have a typical vein aspect. These transgressive relationships are not inconsistent with a syngenetic origin as evidenced by the vein morphology. (author)

Technical Basis for Assessing Uranium Bioremediation Performance

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

PE Long; SB Yabusaki; PD Meyer; CJ Murray; AL N'Guessan

2008-01-01

In situ bioremediation of uranium holds significant promise for effective stabilization of U(VI) from groundwater at reduced cost compared to conventional pump and treat. This promise is unlikely to be realized unless researchers and practitioners successfully predict and demonstrate the long-term effectiveness of uranium bioremediation protocols. Field research to date has focused on both proof of principle and a mechanistic level of understanding. Current practice typically involves an engineering approach using proprietary amendments that focuses mainly on monitoring U(VI) concentration for a limited time period. Given the complexity of uranium biogeochemistry and uranium secondary minerals, and the lack of documented case studies, a systematic monitoring approach using multiple performance indicators is needed. This document provides an overview of uranium bioremediation, summarizes design considerations, and identifies and prioritizes field performance indicators for the application of uranium bioremediation. The performance indicators provided as part of this document are based on current biogeochemical understanding of uranium and will enable practitioners to monitor the performance of their system and make a strong case to clients, regulators, and the public that the future performance of the system can be assured and changes in performance addressed as needed. The performance indicators established by this document and the information gained by using these indicators do add to the cost of uranium bioremediation. However, they are vital to the long-term success of the application of uranium bioremediation and provide a significant assurance that regulatory goals will be met. The document also emphasizes the need for systematic development of key information from bench scale tests and pilot scales tests prior to full-scale implementation

Technical Basis for Assessing Uranium Bioremediation Performance

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

PE Long; SB Yabusaki; PD Meyer; CJ Murray; AL N’Guessan

2008-04-01

In situ bioremediation of uranium holds significant promise for effective stabilization of U(VI) from groundwater at reduced cost compared to conventional pump and treat. This promise is unlikely to be realized unless researchers and practitioners successfully predict and demonstrate the long-term effectiveness of uranium bioremediation protocols. Field research to date has focused on both proof of principle and a mechanistic level of understanding. Current practice typically involves an engineering approach using proprietary amendments that focuses mainly on monitoring U(VI) concentration for a limited time period. Given the complexity of uranium biogeochemistry and uranium secondary minerals, and the lack of documented case studies, a systematic monitoring approach using multiple performance indicators is needed. This document provides an overview of uranium bioremediation, summarizes design considerations, and identifies and prioritizes field performance indicators for the application of uranium bioremediation. The performance indicators provided as part of this document are based on current biogeochemical understanding of uranium and will enable practitioners to monitor the performance of their system and make a strong case to clients, regulators, and the public that the future performance of the system can be assured and changes in performance addressed as needed. The performance indicators established by this document and the information gained by using these indicators do add to the cost of uranium bioremediation. However, they are vital to the long-term success of the application of uranium bioremediation and provide a significant assurance that regulatory goals will be met. The document also emphasizes the need for systematic development of key information from bench scale tests and pilot scales tests prior to full-scale implementation.

Precise coulometric titration of uranium in a high-purity uranium metal and in uranium compounds

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tanaka, Tatsuhiko; Yoshimori, Takayoshi

1975-01-01

Uranium in uranyl nitrate, uranium trioxide and a high-purity uranium metal was assayed by the coulometric titration with biamperometric end-point detection. Uranium (VI) was reduced to uranium (IV) by solid bismuth amalgam in 5M sulfuric acid solution. The reduced uranium was reoxidized to uranium (VI) with a large excess of ferric ion at a room temperature, and the ferrous ion produced was titrated with the electrogenerated manganese(III) fluoride. In the analyses of uranium nitrate and uranium trioxide, the results were precise enough when the error from uncertainty in water content in the samples was considered. The standard sample of pure uranium metal (JAERI-U4) was assayed by the proposed method. The sample was cut into small chips of about 0.2g. Oxides on the metal surface were removed by the procedure shown by National Bureau of Standards just before weighing. The mean assay value of eleven determinations corrected for 3ppm of iron was (99.998+-0.012) % (the 95% confidence interval for the mean), with a standard deviation of 0.018%. The proposed coulometric method is simple and permits accurate and precise determination of uranium which is matrix constituent in a sample. (auth.)

31 CFR 540.317 - Uranium feed; natural uranium feed.

Science.gov (United States)

2010-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance: Treasury 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Uranium feed; natural uranium feed... (Continued) OFFICE OF FOREIGN ASSETS CONTROL, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY HIGHLY ENRICHED URANIUM (HEU) AGREEMENT ASSETS CONTROL REGULATIONS General Definitions § 540.317 Uranium feed; natural uranium feed. The...

Uranium exploration

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

De Voto, R.H.

1984-01-01

This paper is a review of the methodology and technology that are currently being used in varying degrees in uranium exploration activities worldwide. Since uranium is ubiquitous and occurs in trace amounts (0.2 to 5 ppm) in virtually all rocks of the crust of the earth, exploration for uranium is essentially the search of geologic environments in which geologic processes have produced unusual concentrations of uranium. Since the level of concentration of uranium of economic interest is dependent on the present and future price of uranium, it is appropriate here to review briefly the economic realities of uranium-fueled power generation. (author)

Uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1982-01-01

The development, prospecting, research, processing and marketing of South Africa's uranium industry and the national policies surrounding this industry form the headlines of this work. The geology of South Africa's uranium occurences and their positions, the processes used in the extraction of South Africa's uranium and the utilisation of uranium for power production as represented by the Koeberg nuclear power station near Cape Town are included in this publication

Uranium(VI) speciation: modelling, uncertainty and relevance to bioavailability models. Application to uranium uptake by the gills of a freshwater bivalve

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Denison, F.H.

2004-07-01

The effects of varying solution composition on the interactions between uranium(VI) and excised gills of the freshwater bivalve Corbicula fluminea have been investigated in well defined solution media. A significant reduction in the uptake of uranium was observed on increasing the concentrations of the uranium complexing ligands citrate and carbonate. Saturation kinetics as a function of uranium concentration at a pH value of 5.0 were observed, indicating that the uptake of uranium is a facilitated process, probably involving one or several trans-membrane transport systems. A relatively small change in the uptake of uranium was found as a function of pH (factor of ca. 2), despite the extremely large changes to the solution speciation of uranium within the range of pH investigated (5.0 - 7.5). A comprehensive review of the thermodynamic data relevant to the solution composition domain employed for this study was performed. Estimates of the uncertainties for the formation constants of aqueous uranium(VI) species were integrated into a thermodynamic database. A computer program was written to predict the equilibrium distribution of uranium(VI) in simple aqueous systems, using thermodynamic parameter mean-values. The program was extended to perform Monte Carlo and Quasi Monte Carlo uncertainty analyses, incorporating the thermodynamic database uncertainty estimates, to quantitatively predict the uncertainties inherent in predicting the solution speciation of uranium. The use of thermodynamic equilibrium modelling as a tool for interpreting the bioavailability of uranium(VI) was investigated. Observed uranium(VI) uptake behaviour was interpreted as a function of the predicted changes to the solution speciation of uranium. Different steady-state or pre-equilibrium approaches to modelling uranium uptake were tested. Alternative modelling approaches were also tested, considering the potential changes to membrane transport system activity or sorption characteristics on

Influence of uranium hydride oxidation on uranium metal behaviour

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Patel, N.; Hambley, D.; Clarke, S.A.; Simpson, K.

2013-01-01

This work addresses concerns that the rapid, exothermic oxidation of active uranium hydride in air could stimulate an exothermic reaction (burning) involving any adjacent uranium metal, so as to increase the potential hazard arising from a hydride reaction. The effect of the thermal reaction of active uranium hydride, especially in contact with uranium metal, does not increase in proportion with hydride mass, particularly when considering large quantities of hydride. Whether uranium metal continues to burn in the long term is a function of the uranium metal and its surroundings. The source of the initial heat input to the uranium, if sufficient to cause ignition, is not important. Sustained burning of uranium requires the rate of heat generation to be sufficient to offset the total rate of heat loss so as to maintain an elevated temperature. For dense uranium, this is very difficult to achieve in naturally occurring circumstances. Areas of the uranium surface can lose heat but not generate heat. Heat can be lost by conduction, through contact with other materials, and by convection and radiation, e.g. from areas where the uranium surface is covered with a layer of oxidised material, such as burned-out hydride or from fuel cladding. These rates of heat loss are highly significant in relation to the rate of heat generation by sustained oxidation of uranium in air. Finite volume modelling has been used to examine the behaviour of a magnesium-clad uranium metal fuel element within a bottle surrounded by other un-bottled fuel elements. In the event that the bottle is breached, suddenly, in air, it can be concluded that the bulk uranium metal oxidation reaction will not reach a self-sustaining level and the mass of uranium oxidised will likely to be small in relation to mass of uranium hydride oxidised. (authors)

Influence of uranium hydride oxidation on uranium metal behaviour

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Patel, N.; Hambley, D. [National Nuclear Laboratory (United Kingdom); Clarke, S.A. [Sellafield Ltd (United Kingdom); Simpson, K.

2013-07-01

This work addresses concerns that the rapid, exothermic oxidation of active uranium hydride in air could stimulate an exothermic reaction (burning) involving any adjacent uranium metal, so as to increase the potential hazard arising from a hydride reaction. The effect of the thermal reaction of active uranium hydride, especially in contact with uranium metal, does not increase in proportion with hydride mass, particularly when considering large quantities of hydride. Whether uranium metal continues to burn in the long term is a function of the uranium metal and its surroundings. The source of the initial heat input to the uranium, if sufficient to cause ignition, is not important. Sustained burning of uranium requires the rate of heat generation to be sufficient to offset the total rate of heat loss so as to maintain an elevated temperature. For dense uranium, this is very difficult to achieve in naturally occurring circumstances. Areas of the uranium surface can lose heat but not generate heat. Heat can be lost by conduction, through contact with other materials, and by convection and radiation, e.g. from areas where the uranium surface is covered with a layer of oxidised material, such as burned-out hydride or from fuel cladding. These rates of heat loss are highly significant in relation to the rate of heat generation by sustained oxidation of uranium in air. Finite volume modelling has been used to examine the behaviour of a magnesium-clad uranium metal fuel element within a bottle surrounded by other un-bottled fuel elements. In the event that the bottle is breached, suddenly, in air, it can be concluded that the bulk uranium metal oxidation reaction will not reach a self-sustaining level and the mass of uranium oxidised will likely to be small in relation to mass of uranium hydride oxidised. (authors)

Uranium sorption to natural substrates-insights provided by isotope exchange, selective extraction and surface complexation modelling approaches

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Waite, T.D.; Payne T.E.; Davis, J.A.

1993-01-01

An extensive experimental program has been conducted over the last three years into the interaction of U(VI) with both single oxides and clays and complex natural substrates from the weathered zone in the vicinity of a uranium ore body in northern Australia. While iron oxides have frequently been considered to account for much of the uptake on such natural substrates, the results of laboratory open-quotes pH edgeclose quotes studies and of isotope exchange and selective extraction studies suggest that other phases must also play a significant role in controlling the partitioning of U(VI) between solid and solution phases. Supporting studies on kaolinite, the dominant clay in this system, provide insight into the most appropriate method of modelling the interaction of U(VI) with these natural substrates. The problems still remaining in adequately describing sorption of radionuclides and trace elements to complex natural substrates are discussed

Trivalent metallocene chemistry of some uranium, titanium, and zirconium complexes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lukens, Jr., Wayne Wendell [Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA (United States)

1995-05-01

Dicyclopentadienyluranium halide dimers have been prepared and their solution behavior examined. These molecules exist as dimers in solution, and the halide ligands undergo rapid site exchange on the NMR timescale above 50 C. Analogous dicyclopentadienyluranium hydroxide dimers have also been prepared; they oxidatively eliminate hydrogen to give the corresponding oxide dimers. Mechanism of this reaction is consistent with αmigration of one of the hydroxide hydrogen atoms to a uranium center followed by elimination of hydrogen. Ground state of [(Me₃Si)₂C₅H₃]₃M M = Nd, U and their base adducts has been examined by variable temperature magnetic susceptibility and EPR spectroscopy. The ground state is found to be ⁴I_9/2 with a crystal field state consisting largely of J_z = 1/2 lowest, in agreement with previous studies on tris-cyclopentadienylneodymium complexes. The zirconium metallocene Cp₃Zr has been prepared, characterized crystallographically, and its reactivity studied. Its chemical behavior is controlled by presence of an electron in the non-bonding, d_z2 orbital which prevents formation of base adducts Of Cp₃Zr, but allows Cp₃Zr to abstract atoms from other molecules. Electonic and EPR spectra of Cp*₂TiX complexes, where Cp* is Me₅C₅ and X is a monodentate, anionic ligand such as halide, have been studied. A π-bonding spectrochemical series is developed, and trends in π-bonding ability are found similar to those in other inorganic complexes. The β-agostic interactions in Cp*₂TiN(Me)Ph have been examined using variable temperature EPR spectroscopy, and the enthalpy/entropy of the interaction determined. In Cp*₂TiEt, enthalpy of the β-agostic interaction is -1.9 kcal/mol. The titanocene anion, Cp*₂TiLi(TMEDA) (TMEDA is N,N,N`,N`-tetramethylethylenediamine), has been

Design of polymetallic uranium assemblies for the development of single molecule magnets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chatelain, Lucile

2016-01-01

The study of actinide chemistry is not only essential for the development of nuclear fuel, nuclear fuel reprocessing or environmental clean up, but also for the understanding of fundamental actinide/ligand interactions and multiple bounding. The magnetic properties of polynuclear actinide molecules are of significant interest to investigate the magnetic communication between the metallic centres. Furthermore, they are highly promising for the design of molecular magnets. Uranium undergoes redox reactions due to a wide range of available oxidation states and easily forms polynuclear assemblies. However, only a few controlled synthetic routes towards these polynuclear uranium assemblies are described in the literature. In this context, the first part of this work was dedicated to the synthesis of oxo/hydroxo uranium clusters from the controlled hydrolysis of tetravalent uranium in the presence of an environmentally relevant ligand. This led to the synthesis of clusters with novel topologies, for which size could be varied as a function of the reaction conditions employed. However, the obtained clusters do not behave as SMM. In order to gain a stronger interaction between metallic centres, the cation-cation interaction was used to rationally design polynuclear uranyl(V) complexes. The isolation of uranyl(V) complexes had been limited in the past by its disproportionation, however, a fine tuning of the organic ligand and reaction conditions finally allowed to stabilise uranyl(V). We used stable uranyl(V) units as building block to form heteronuclear complexes with 3d and 4f metals with polymeric or discrete structures. The study of the magnetic properties of the uranium polynuclear assemblies was carried out and revealed single molecule or chain magnet behaviours with high energy barriers. The uranyl(V) unit was also used as a structural model for the more radioactive neptunium element, allowing the isolation of an isostructural trinuclear neptunyl(V) assembly in

Uranium occurence in California near Bucaramanga (Columbia)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Heider Polania, J.

1980-01-01

The mining district of California, Bucaramanga, is on the west side of the Cordillera Oriental in the Santander massif region. The oldest rocks of the area form a complex of metamorphites and migmatites of the predevonic age. Amphibolite various types of paragneiss and orthogneiss are represented. Several stages of metamorphism can be documented in some rocks, as well as double anatexis. Triassic to jurassic quarz diorites and leukogranites show wide distribution. Porphyric rocks of granodioritic to granitic composition, to which the uranium mineralization is mainly bonded, intruded into the sediments of the lower cretaceous. Atomic absorption spectral analyses were carried out for the elements Cu, Zn and Li, as well as the uranium contents of some samples using fluorimetry. Uranium is primarily bonded to pitch blende and coffinite. The latter mostly occur in fine distribution grown in quarz and belong to the most recent mineralization phase. Autunite, meta-autunite, torbernite, meta-torbernite, zeunerite, meta-zeunerite and meta uranocircite detected as secondary uranium minerals. (orig./HP) [de

Uranium conversion; Urankonvertering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Oliver, Lena; Peterson, Jenny; Wilhelmsen, Katarina [Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI), Stockholm (Sweden)

2006-03-15

FOI, has performed a study on uranium conversion processes that are of importance in the production of different uranium compounds in the nuclear industry. The same conversion processes are of interest both when production of nuclear fuel and production of fissile material for nuclear weapons are considered. Countries that have nuclear weapons ambitions, with the intention to produce highly enriched uranium for weapons purposes, need some degree of uranium conversion capability depending on the uranium feed material available. This report describes the processes that are needed from uranium mining and milling to the different conversion processes for converting uranium ore concentrate to uranium hexafluoride. Uranium hexafluoride is the uranium compound used in most enrichment facilities. The processes needed to produce uranium dioxide for use in nuclear fuel and the processes needed to convert different uranium compounds to uranium metal - the form of uranium that is used in a nuclear weapon - are also presented. The production of uranium ore concentrate from uranium ore is included since uranium ore concentrate is the feed material required for a uranium conversion facility. Both the chemistry and principles or the different uranium conversion processes and the equipment needed in the processes are described. Since most of the equipment that is used in a uranium conversion facility is similar to that used in conventional chemical industry, it is difficult to determine if certain equipment is considered for uranium conversion or not. However, the chemical conversion processes where UF{sub 6} and UF{sub 4} are present require equipment that is made of corrosion resistant material.

Validation of the WATEQ4 geochemical model for uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Krupka, K.M.; Jenne, E.A.; Deutsch, W.J.

1983-09-01

As part of the Geochemical Modeling and Nuclide/Rock/Groundwater Interactions Studies Program, a study was conducted to partially validate the WATEQ4 aqueous speciation-solubility geochemical model for uranium. The solubility controls determined with the WATEQ4 geochemical model were in excellent agreement with those laboratory studies in which the solids schoepite [UO 2 (OH) 2 . H 2 O], UO 2 (OH) 2 , and rutherfordine ((UO 2 CO 3 ) were identified as actual solubility controls for uranium. The results of modeling solution analyses from laboratory studies of uranyl phosphate solids, however, identified possible errors in the characterization of solids in the original solubility experiments. As part of this study, significant deficiencies in the WATEQ4 thermodynamic data base for uranium solutes and solids were corrected. Revisions included recalculation of selected uranium reactions. Additionally, thermodynamic data for the hydroxyl complexes of U(VI), including anionic (VI) species, were evaluated (to the extent permitted by the available data). Vanadium reactions were also added to the thermodynamic data base because uranium-vanadium solids can exist in natural ground-water systems. This study is only a partial validation of the WATEQ4 geochemical model because the available laboratory solubility studies do not cover the range of solid phases, alkaline pH values, and concentrations of inorganic complexing ligands needed to evaluate the potential solubility of uranium in ground waters associated with various proposed nuclear waste repositories. Further validation of this or other geochemical models for uranium will require careful determinations of uraninite solubility over the pH range of 7 to 10 under highly reducing conditions and of uranyl hydroxide and phosphate solubilities over the pH range of 7 to 10 under oxygenated conditions

Isolation and characterization of a uranium(VI)-nitride triple bond

Science.gov (United States)

King, David M.; Tuna, Floriana; McInnes, Eric J. L.; McMaster, Jonathan; Lewis, William; Blake, Alexander J.; Liddle, Stephen T.

2013-06-01

The nature and extent of covalency in uranium bonding is still unclear compared with that of transition metals, and there is great interest in studying uranium-ligand multiple bonds. Although U=O and U=NR double bonds (where R is an alkyl group) are well-known analogues to transition-metal oxo and imido complexes, the uranium(VI)-nitride triple bond has long remained a synthetic target in actinide chemistry. Here, we report the preparation of a uranium(VI)-nitride triple bond. We highlight the importance of (1) ancillary ligand design, (2) employing mild redox reactions instead of harsh photochemical methods that decompose transiently formed uranium(VI) nitrides, (3) an electrostatically stabilizing sodium ion during nitride installation, (4) selecting the right sodium sequestering reagent, (5) inner versus outer sphere oxidation and (6) stability with respect to the uranium oxidation state. Computational analyses suggest covalent contributions to U≡N triple bonds that are surprisingly comparable to those of their group 6 transition-metal nitride counterparts.

Uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mackay, G.A.

1978-01-01

The author discusses the contribution made by various energy sources in the production of electricity. Estimates are made of the future nuclear contribution, the future demand for uranium and future sales of Australian uranium. Nuclear power growth in the United States, Japan and Western Europe is discussed. The present status of the six major Australian uranium deposits (Ranger, Jabiluka, Nabarlek, Koongarra, Yeelerrie and Beverley) is given. Australian legislation relevant to the uranium mining industry is also outlined

DOE's Stewardship of Government-Owned Uranium Materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jackson, J. Dale; Donaldson, Dale E.

2002-01-01

Beginning in the 1980's, a significant number of Department of Energy facilities have been shut down and are in the decommissioning process. The shutdown of additional facilities is planned. In addition, during the past several decades, the Department of Energy has loaned nuclear material to a wide variety of private and governmental institutions for research and educational purposes. Subsequent changes in the Department's priorities have reduced the need for nuclear materials to support the Department's programs. Similarly, there has been a reduction in the need for borrowed nuclear materials by organizations and institutions using nuclear materials 'on loan' from the Department. As a result, inventories of uranium material from the Department's facilities and 'on loan' must be removed and returned to the Department. This material is in the form of low enriched uranium (LEU), normal uranium (NU), and depleted uranium (DU) in various forms. This uranium material is located at over one hundred sites within the United States and overseas, including universities and laboratories. Much of this uranium is not needed to support national priorities and programs. The Department of Energy has assumed a stewardship role in managing nuclear materials throughout their life cycle, from acquisition to storage. Surplus uranium has created challenges for DOE in managing and storing the material as well as identifying opportunities for its further use. On behalf of the Department, the Oak Ridge Operations Office has been given the responsibility to implement the Department responsibilities in meeting these challenges and managing the Department's uranium materials. To support this effort, the Office of Nuclear Fuel Security and Uranium Technology within the ORO complex coordinates uranium management functions across the Department of Energy. This coordination provides DOE with a number of important benefits, among which are: consolidated management and storage of uranium; improved

Czechoslovak uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pluskal, O.

1992-01-01

Data and knowledge related to the prospecting, mining, processing and export of uranium ores in Czechoslovakia are presented. In the years between 1945 and January 1, 1991, 98,461.1 t of uranium were extracted. In the period 1965-1990 the uranium industry was subsidized from the state budget to a total of 38.5 billion CSK. The subsidies were put into extraction, investments and geologic prospecting; the latter was at first, ie. till 1960 financed by the former USSR, later on the two parties shared costs on a 1:1 basis. Since 1981 the prospecting has been entirely financed from the Czechoslovak state budget. On Czechoslovak territory uranium has been extracted from deposits which may be classified as vein-type deposits, deposits in uranium-bearing sandstones and deposits connected with weathering processes. The future of mining, however, is almost exclusively being connected with deposits in uranium-bearing sandstones. A brief description and characteristic is given of all uranium deposits on Czechoslovak territory, and the organization of uranium mining in Czechoslovakia is described as is the approach used in the world to evaluate uranium deposits; uranium prices and actual resources are also given. (Z.S.) 3 figs

Vein-type and similar uranium deposits of Argentina

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stipanicic, P.

1982-01-01

Some vein-type and similar uranium deposits and occurrences are briefly described to show different models identified in Argentina. Practically all of them were formerly thought to be related to hydrothermal-magmatic processes, but at present few are considered to be so; some are classified as typically exogenous and opinions differ about the genesis of the remaining ones, especially because of a lack of sufficient research on the matter since this group of accumulations only contributes less than 10% to the entire uranium resources of Argentina. The typical vein-type ore bodies are small (including less than 200t U) with grades varying from 0.1 to near 1%U. Other deposits, resolved as stockworks, could be from small to medium size (more than 200t U to 2000t U) with a uranium content from 0.7 to 0.03%, respectively. The mineralogical associations are variable, from complex ones in veins considered as magmatic-endogenous (with U, Ni, Co, Pb, Cu, Zn, etc.) to very simple ones in the exogenetic accumulations, which only comprise uranium minerals. The paragenetic studies available are not complete enough to define the possible relation of uranium with the other metals in the complex ores. The age of the mineralization has been defined in some cases, but not in others. There are examples of mineralizing processes occurring from Palaeozoic to very recent times. Some of the uranium deposits mentioned here have been exploited in the past; one of them will be re-opened very shortly; and a new one will be put into operation in 1981. The geological composition of Argentina is not favourable for uranium deposits related to the Proterozoic unconformity, and the best possibilities for finding interesting accumulations of vein and similar type are in the large Hercynian granitic environments which have outcrops that cover more than 150,000km 2 (Pampean Hills and North Patagonian Massif). (author)

Uranium in Niger; L'uranium au Niger

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gabelmann, E

1978-03-15

This document presents government policy in the enhancement of uranium resources, existing mining companies and their productions, exploitation projects and economical outcome related to the uranium mining and auxiliary activities. [French] Le document presente la politique de l'Etat dans le cadre de la mise en valeur des ressources d'uranium, les societes minieres existantes et leurs productions, les projets d'exploitation d'uranium et les retombees economiques liees aux activites uraniferes et connexes.

Uranium recovery and uranium remove from acid mine waters by ion exchange resin; Remocao e recuperacao de uranio de aguas acidas de mina com resina de troca ionica

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nascimento, Marcos R.L. [Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear (CNEN), Pocos de Caldas, MG (Brazil). Coordenacao do Laborarorio; Fatibello Filho, Orlando [Sao Carlos Univ., SP (Brazil). Dept. de Quimica

1999-11-01

Ion exchange using resins is one of few processes capable of reducing contaminants in effluents to very low levels according to environmental legislation. In this study the process was used to remove and recovery uranium from acid mine waters at Pocos de Caldas-MG Uranium Mining and Milling Plant. The presence of pyrite in the waste rock piles, resulting acid drainage with several pollutants. Including uranium ranging from 6 to 14 mg/l, as sulfate complex, that can be removed by an anionic exchanger. Studies of uranium sorption without treatment, and with lime pretreatment of water to precipitate the iron and recovery uranium as commercial product, are presented. Uranium elution was done with NaCl solutions. Saline concentration and retention time were the parameters studied. the uranium decontaminations level in the effluents from acid mine water was 94%. (author) 10 refs., 6 tabs., 3 figs.

Uranium Metal to Oxide Conversion by Air Oxidation –Process Development

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Duncan, A

2001-12-31

Published technical information for the process of metal-to-oxide conversion of uranium components has been reviewed and summarized for the purpose of supporting critical decisions for new processes and facilities for the Y-12 National Security Complex. The science of uranium oxidation under low, intermediate, and high temperature conditions is reviewed. A process and system concept is outlined and process parameters identified for uranium oxide production rates. Recommendations for additional investigations to support a conceptual design of a new facility are outlined.

Evolution of ore-bearing material sources of endogenous uranium deposits

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kazansk, V.I.; Laverov, N.P.; Tugarinov, A.I.

1976-01-01

Considered are the regularities of changes in types and conditions of uranium deposit formation in connection with the general development of the earth crust tectonic structures. Out of pre-Kembrian uranium deposits considered are Vitwatersrand conglomerates, hydrothermal deposits in pre-Kembrian iron quartzites in the areas of regional fractures in exocontacts of big multiphase granitoid massifs of Proterozoic age and in the fundament folded structures. The hydrothermal-metamorphogen theory is supported of the origin of uranium-bearing sodium metasomatite of Proterozoic, including uranium deposits in the area of the Atabaska lake. Four genetic classes of Palaeozoic deposits are considered. Four periods are singled out in the development of Palaeozoic uranium provinces. Most of the Palaeozoic deposits are shown to be of polygenous origin. Mesozoic deposits are also polygenous, but the combination of ore substance sources in them is more complex

Estimating Uranium Partition Coefficients from Laboratory Adsorption Isotherms

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hull, L.C.; Grossman, C.; Fjeld, R.A.; Coates, J.T.; Elzerman, A.W.

2002-01-01

An estimated 330 metric tons of uranium have been buried in the radioactive waste Subsurface Disposal Area (SDA) at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL). An assessment of uranium transport parameters is being performed to decrease the uncertainty in risk and dose predictions derived from computer simulations of uranium fate and transport to the underlying Snake River Plain Aquifer. Uranium adsorption isotherms have been measured in the laboratory and fit with a Freundlich isotherm. The Freundlich n parameter was statistically identical for 14 sediment samples. The Freundlich Kf for seven samples, where material properties have been measured, is correlated to sediment surface area. Based on these empirical observations, a model has been derived for adsorption of uranium on INEEL sedimentary materials using surface complexation theory. The model was then used to predict the range of adsorption conditions to be expected at the SDA. Adsorption in the deep vadose zone is predicted to be stronger than in near-surface sediments because the total dissolved carbonate decreases with depth

Spectrophotometric determination of trace uranium in phosphate ore samples from kurum and uro areas, Nuba mountains, Sudan

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mohamed, A. A.; Ali, A. H.; Altayeb, M. A. H.

2004-01-01

A method was proposed for the spectrophotometric determination of uranium content in phosphate ores. the method is based on the use of nitrogen (v) acid for leaching the rock, and treatment with ammonium carbonate solution, whereby uranium (Vi) is kept in solution as its carbonate complex. The ion-exchange technique was used for the recovery of uranium. Uranium was determined spectrophotometrically by measurement of the absorbance of the yellow uranium (Vi)-8-hydroxyquinolate complex at λ 425 nm. The procedure was used for the determination of trace uranium content in 30 phosphate ore samples collected from Kurun and Uro areas in Nuba mountains in Sudan. X-ray fluorescence technique was employed for the assessment of the method used. The spectrophotometric method results show a high similarity with those obtained by XRF technique. This agreement indicates that the procedure proposed here has been successfully applied for the determination of uranium in phosphate ores. (Author)

A clean environment approach to uranium mining

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Grancea, Luminita

2015-01-01

A global and multi-faceted response to climate change is essential if meaningful and cost-effective progress is to be made in reducing the effects of climate change around the world. There is no doubt that the uranium mining sector has an important role to play in such a goal. Uranium is the raw material used to produce fuel for long-lived nuclear facilities, necessary for the generation of significant amounts of baseload low-carbon electricity for decades to come. Given expectations of growth in nuclear generating capacity and the associated uranium demand, enhancing awareness of leading practices in uranium mining is indispensable. Actors in the uranium mining sector operate in a complex world, throughout different geographies, and involving global supply chains. They manage climate-sensitive water, land and energy resources and balance the interests of various stakeholders. Managed well, uranium mining delivers sustainable value for economic growth, employment and infrastructure, with specific attention given to the preservation of the environment. In the early phases of the industry, however, downside risks existed, which created legacy environmental and health issues that still can be recalled today. This article addresses key aspects of modern uranium mining operations that have been introduced as regulations and practices have evolved in response to societal attitudes about health, safety and environmental protection. Such aspects of mine management were seldom, if ever, respected in the early stages of uranium mining. With the implementation of modern mine lifecycle parameters and regulatory requirements, uranium mining has become a leader in safety and environmental management. Today, uranium mining is conducted under significantly different circumstances and is now the most regulated and one of the safest forms of mining in the world. Experiences from modern uranium mines show that successful companies develop innovative strategies to manage all the

Determination of traces of uranium in sea water after separation by froth flotation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sekine, K.

1975-01-01

Uranium in sea water is separated by froth flotation of the uranium (VI)-Arsenazo III-Zephiramine ion-adduct and then determined by neutron activation or spectrophotometric method using the uranium(IV)-Arsenazo III complex. Results of the analysis of Pacific coastal samples by the two methods are in good agreement; an average value of 3.0μg U/per liter was obtained. (author)

Risk evaluation of uranium mining: a new kinetic approach

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Scislewski, Alexandro [Brazilian Nuclear Energy Comission (CNEN), Avenida Santana, 680, Centro, Caetite-Bahia, 46400-000 (Brazil); Zuddas, Pierpaolo [Universite Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris-Sorbonne, ISTEP place Jussieu, Tour 56-55, case 116, F75252 Paris Cedex 05 (France)

2013-07-01

Release of uranium and associated heavy metals is the main environmental concern regarding exploitation and processing of U-ore. Increasing uranium mining activities potentially increase the risks linked to radiation exposure. As a tool to evaluate these risks, a geochemical inverse modeling approach was developed to estimate the water-mineral interaction in the presence of uranium. Our methodology is based on the estimation of dissolution rate and reactive surface area of the different minerals participating in the reaction by reconstructing the chemical evolution of the interacting fluids. We found that the reactive surface area of parent-rock minerals changes over several orders of magnitude during the investigated reaction time. We propose that the formation of coatings on dissolving mineral surfaces significantly reduces reactivity. Our results show that negatively charged uranium complexes decrease when alkalinity and rock buffer capacity is similarly lower, indicating that the dissolved carbonate is an important parameter impacting uranium mobility. (authors)

Risk evaluation of uranium mining: a new kinetic approach

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Scislewski, Alexandro; Zuddas, Pierpaolo

2013-01-01

Release of uranium and associated heavy metals is the main environmental concern regarding exploitation and processing of U-ore. Increasing uranium mining activities potentially increase the risks linked to radiation exposure. As a tool to evaluate these risks, a geochemical inverse modeling approach was developed to estimate the water-mineral interaction in the presence of uranium. Our methodology is based on the estimation of dissolution rate and reactive surface area of the different minerals participating in the reaction by reconstructing the chemical evolution of the interacting fluids. We found that the reactive surface area of parent-rock minerals changes over several orders of magnitude during the investigated reaction time. We propose that the formation of coatings on dissolving mineral surfaces significantly reduces reactivity. Our results show that negatively charged uranium complexes decrease when alkalinity and rock buffer capacity is similarly lower, indicating that the dissolved carbonate is an important parameter impacting uranium mobility. (authors)

Contribution to uranium geochemistry in intrusive granites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Coulomb, R.

1959-01-01

This work aims to define the position of a certain number of French granitic deposits within the field of the geochemistry of granites in general, and of the geochemistry of uranium in particular. The regions concerned are: - 3 French Hercynian ranges, in the Vendee, in Brittany and in the Morvan, - 1 African range, probably precambrian, of the Hoggar. For each range, the petrochemical framework is first of all determined and then the degree of chemical homogeneity of the rocks is evaluated. In the petrochemical groups thus obtained the geochemical behaviour of the uranium is studied. From a point of view of the geochemistry of the granites under investigation, a comparison of the laws of distribution of the major elements in the 4 ranges shows up a convergence of average composition which was not anticipated by geological and petrographic considerations alone. The statistical and geochemical distribution laws of the total uranium as a function of the petrochemical variations are established. A study of the chemical forms of uranium in the rocks has drawn an attention to the qualitative and quantitative importance of the fraction of this uranium soluble in dilute acids. We have therefore reconsidered on the one hand, the laws of distribution of the insoluble uranium, which represents essentially the uranium fixed in crystalline structures (zircon, allanite...), and we have justified on the other hand the interest presented by the soluble uranium: this, although more complex in character, presents a geochemical unity in post magmatic phenomena which makes possible to find a genetic connection between the uraniferous deposits and the intrusive massifs. Finally we have given a plan of the geochemical cycle of uranium, in which we hope to have provided some more accurate data on the igneous phase. (author) [fr

Uranium ores

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Poty, B.; Roux, J.

1998-01-01

The processing of uranium ores for uranium extraction and concentration is not much different than the processing of other metallic ores. However, thanks to its radioactive property, the prospecting of uranium ores can be performed using geophysical methods. Surface and sub-surface detection methods are a combination of radioactive measurement methods (radium, radon etc..) and classical mining and petroleum prospecting methods. Worldwide uranium prospecting has been more or less active during the last 50 years, but the rise of raw material and energy prices between 1970 and 1980 has incited several countries to develop their nuclear industry in order to diversify their resources and improve their energy independence. The result is a considerable increase of nuclear fuels demand between 1980 and 1990. This paper describes successively: the uranium prospecting methods (direct, indirect and methodology), the uranium deposits (economical definition, uranium ores, and deposits), the exploitation of uranium ores (use of radioactivity, radioprotection, effluents), the worldwide uranium resources (definition of the different categories and present day state of worldwide resources). (J.S.)

Preconcentration and determination of uranium on to polyurethane foam functionalized with salicylate

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sousa, Alvaro S.F. de; Ferreira, Elizabeth de M.M.; Cassella, Ricardo J.

2009-01-01

Salicylate was covalently linking with a commercial polyurethane foam (PUF) through -N=N-group generating a stable chelating sorbent (PUFS). The synthesized sorbent was characterized by Infrared Spectrometry (IR) measurement. Good stability towards various solvents was noticed. The pH influence and equilibration shaking time adsorption onto foam functionalized was studied as factors influencing the extraction process of the uranium ion solution. Extraction of uranium was accomplished in 10 minutes. Uranium at ppb level was absorbed as the salicylate complex on powered PUFS at pH about 8.0. Uranium could be achieved in 85 % from a 500 mL uranium solution (0.1 μgmL -1 ) which shows the suitability of salicylate foam for preconcentration analysis. (author)

Further study of extraction equilibrium of uranium(VI) with dicyclohexano-18-crown-6 and its application to separating uranium and thorium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang Wenji; Sun Qing; Chen Bozhong

1987-01-01

The extraction equilibrium of uranium(VI) from aqueous hydrochloric acid solution with dicyclohexano-18-crown-6 isomer A (Ia) and isomer B (Ib) in 1,2-dichloroethane is presented. The extracted species are found to be 1:2 (metal/crown) for Ia and 2:3 for Ib from slope analysis and direct determination of extracted complexes. The extraction equilibrium constants (Kex) were determined at 25 deg C, and were equal to 29.5 for the former and 0.208 for the latter. It is concluded that Ia has stronger coordinate ability for uranium than Ib. The method is effective and selective. The results can be used for the separation of uranium and thorium. (author)

Literature information applicable to the reaction of uranium oxides with chlorine to prepare uranium tetrachloride

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Haas, P.A.

1992-02-01

The reaction of uranium oxides and chlorine to prepare anhydrous uranium tetrachloride (UCl 4 ) are important to more economical preparation of uranium metal. The most practical reactions require carbon or carbon monoxide (CO) to give CO or carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) as waste gases. The chemistry of U-O-Cl compounds is very complex with valances of 3, 4, 5, and 6 and with stable oxychlorides. Literature was reviewed to collect thermochemical data, phase equilibrium information, and results of experimental studies. Calculations using thermodynamic data can identify the probable reactions, but the results are uncertain. All the U-O-Cl compounds have large free energies of formation and the calculations give uncertain small differences of large numbers. The phase diagram for UCl 4 -UO 2 shows a reaction to form uranium oxychloride (UOCl 2 ) that has a good solubility in molten UCl 4 . This appears more favorable to good rates of reaction than reaction of solids and gases. There is limited information on U-O-Cl salt properties. Information on the preparation of titanium, zirconium, silicon, and thorium tetrachlorides (TiCl 4 , ZrCl 4 , SiCl 4 , ThCl 4 ) by reaction of oxides with chlorine (Cl 2 ) and carbon has application to the preparation of UCl 4

Influence of uranyl dibutylphosphate on the UV/VIS spectrophotometric online monitoring of uranium in tributylphosphate/hydrocarbon solvent

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Creech, E.T.; Rutenberg, A.C.; Smithwick, R.W.; Seals, R.D.

1984-01-01

In the uranium recovery process at the Y-12 Plant uranium is recovered from aqueous uranyl solutions by extraction into a solvent consisting of 30% tributylphosphate (TBP) and 70% hydrocarbon solvent. Within this process the uranium is continuously monitored by a UV/VIS absorbance measurement of the uranyl/tributylphosphate complex in the organic phase. The uranium is then further extracted from the organic phase to a final water phase. Dibutylphosphate (DBP), which is a decomposition product of TBP, builds up in the organic solvent. A very strong complex of uranyl/dibutylphosphate is formed which cannot be extracted into the aqueous phase. Prior to this work the uranyl/dibutylphosphate complex absorbance was assumed to be the same as the uranyl tributylphosphate complex. To determine the effect of the presence of uranyl/dibutylphosphate on the continuous UV/VIS monitor required (a) the purification of commercial dibutylphosphate, (b) the synthesis, and (c) the characterization of uranyl/dibutylphosphate

Portsmouth Uranium Enrichment Complex environmental monitoring report for calendar year 1985

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1986-05-01

At the Portsmouth Uranium Enrichment Complex all effluent streams are sampled regularly and analyzed to assess compliance with applicable environmental standards. Radioactivity is measured in air, water, fish, produce, soil, sediments and vegetation; and radiation doses to the public are calculated. The calculated public radiation doses from process effluents are within US Department of Energy (DOE) and US Environmental protection Agency (USEPA) standards. An extensive amount of engineering effort is underway to modify existing airborne radioactivity emissions sources to further reduce emissions in compliance with DOE policy. Non-radioactive effluents either presently comply with federal standards or will comply upon completion of planned projects. CY-1985 was the fifth full year under the current National Pullutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for liquid effluents, and the third year since the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) assumed responsibility for administering the NPDES program. Compliance with the permit's discharge limits, with the exception of violations due to the Coal Pile Treatment Facility and the Biodenitrification Plant for which projects to improve performance are currently underway, did not present any significant problems. Overall compliance was 95.5%. There was increased activity in the areas of groundwater monitoring, hazardous waste and PCB waste management to comply with Federal regulations

Determination of Background Uranium Concentration in the Snake River Plain Aquifer under the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory's Radioactive Waste Management Complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Molly K. Leecaster; L. Don Koeppen; Gail L. Olson

2003-01-01

Uranium occurs naturally in the environment and is also a contaminant that is disposed of at the Radioactive Waste Management Complex (RWMC) at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory. To determine whether uranium concentrations in the Snake River Plain Aquifer, which underlies the laboratory, are elevated as a result of migration of anthropogenic uranium from the Subsurface Disposal Area in the RWMC, uranium background concentrations are necessary. Guideline values are calculated for total uranium, 234U, 235U, and 238U from analytical results from up to five datasets. Three of the datasets include results of samples analyzed using isotope dilution thermal ionization mass spectrometry (ID-TIMS) and two of the datasets include results obtained using alpha spectrometry. All samples included in the statistical testing were collected from aquifer monitoring wells located within 10 miles of the RWMC. Results from ID-TIMS and alpha spectrometry are combined when the data are not statistically different. Guideline values for total uranium were calculated using four of the datasets, while guideline values for 234U were calculated using only the alpha spectrometry results (2 datasets). Data from all five datasets were used to calculate 238U guideline values. No limit is calculated for 235U because the ID-TIMS results are not useful for comparison with routine monitoring data, and the alpha spectrometry results are too close to the detection limit to be deemed accurate or reliable for calculating a 235U guideline value. All guideline values presented represent the upper 95% coverage 95% confidence tolerance limits for background concentration. If a future monitoring result is above this guideline, then the exceedance will be noted in the quarterly monitoring report and assessed with respect to other aquifer information. The guidelines (tolerance limits) for total U, 234U, and 238U are 2.75 pCi/L, 1.92 pCi/L, and 0.90 pCi/L, respectively

Pengaruh Kandungan Uranium Dalam Umpan Terhadap Efisiensi Pengendapan Uranium

OpenAIRE

Torowati

2010-01-01

PENGARUH KANDUNGAN URANIUM DALAM UMPAN TERHADAP EFISIENSI PENGENDAPAN URANIUM. Setiap aktivitas analisis di Laboratorium Kendali Kualitas, Bidang Bahan Bakar Nuklir selalu dihasilkan limbah radioaktif cair. Limbah radioaktif cair di laboratorium masih mengandung uranium yang cukup besar ± 0,600 g U/l dengan keasamaan yang cukup besar pula. Karena uranium mempunyai nilai ekonomis yang cukup tinggi maka perlu USAha untuk mengambil kembali uranium tersebut. Pada kegiatan ini telah dilak...

Ten years of the uranium mines at Hamr na Jezere

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stehlik, J.

1976-01-01

The ten-year long history of the uranium mine at Hamr na Jezere near Ceska Lipa (Czechoslovakia) is briefly discussed. The deposit is of the sedimentary-epigenetic origin and is located in complex hydrogeologic conditions in the so-called Lusatian Cretaceous system in the Bohemian Cretaceous Plateau. The deposit is characteristic of a considerable proportion of zirconium which forms complex minerals with uranium. The ore is exploited using two mining procedures. In areas with favourable geologic and hydrogeologic conditions it is the conventional mining method, in other parts chemical in-situ leaching is employed. The main demands placed on the two mining technologies include the undisturbed Turonian drinking water aquifer, minimum intrusion into the landscape and the treatment of radioactive waters before discharge into public water supplies. The importance of the Hamr deposit and the further development of the Uranium Mines Concern are indicated. (B.S.)

Extraction equilibrium of uranium(VI) with dicyclohexano-18-crown-6 and its application for separating uranium and thorium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang Wenji; Sun Quing; Chen Bozhong

1986-01-01

The extraction of uranium with dicyclohexano-18-crown-6 (mixed isomers) is described. The extraction equilibrium of uranium(VI) from aqueous hydrochloric acid solution with dicyclohexano-18-crown-6 isomer A (Isub(a)) and isomer B (Isub(b)) in 1,2-dichloroethane is presented. The extracted species were found to be 1:2 (metal/crown) for Isub(a) and 2:3 for Isub(b) from slope analysis and direct determination of extracted complexes. The extraction equilibrium constants (Ksub(ex)) were determined at 25 deg C and are equal to 29.5 and 0.208, respectively. It is concluded that Isub(a) has a stronger coordination ability for uranium than Isub(b). The different orientation of lone pairs of the oxygen atoms in both isomers has to be taken into account for interpereting the above results. (author)

Uranium producer region of Lagoa Real, Brazil. Guarantee of supply of uranium concentrated (DUA) for the brazilian needs

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Matos, Evandro Carele de; Franco, Jamyle Praxedes

2008-01-01

This work focus at the Uranium Province of Lagoa Real, notably considering the geological reserves of uranium already defined (100,000 tones of U 3 O 8 ) and the respective autonomy in providing raw material needed for making fuel elements. The province, based on geo economical parameters, supported by three main vectors (geological model/grade, mining/process route, investment/finance) has been elected to supply the required brazilian demand. Supplying of uranium for the brazilian power plants is in charge of Industrias Nucleares do Brasil - INB and is based on national production. Thus the Industrial Complex of Caetite has been implemented in the state of Bahia, aiming primarily to supply the needs of Angra 1 and Angra 2 power plants. This new production center has the capacity of producing up to 400 tones/yr. of U 3 O 8 . (author)

Glances on uranium. From uranium in the earth to electric power

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Valsardieu, C.

1995-01-01

This book is a technical, scientific and historical analysis of the nuclear fuel cycle from the origin of uranium in the earth and the exploitation of uranium ores to the ultimate storage of radioactive wastes. It comprises 6 chapters dealing with: 1) the different steps of uranium history (discovery, history of uranium chemistry, the radium era, the physicists and the structure of matter, the military uses, the nuclear power, the uranium industry and economics), 2) the uranium in nature (nuclear structure, physical-chemical properties, radioactivity, ores, resources, cycle, deposits), 3) the sidelights on uranium history (mining, prospecting, experience, ore processing, resources, reserves, costs), 4) the uranium in the fuel cycle, energy source and industrial product (fuel cycle, fission, refining, enrichment, fuel processing and reprocessing, nuclear reactors, wastes management), 5) the other energies in competition and the uranium market (other uranium uses, fossil fuels and renewable energies, uranium market), and 6) the future of uranium (forecasting, ecology, economics). (J.S.)

Crystal and molecular structures of thorium and uranium tetrakis(hexafluoroacetonylpyrazolide) complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Volz, K.; Zalkin, A.; Templeton, D.H.

1976-01-01

Triclinic crystals of thorium(IV) and uranium(IV) tetrakis(hexafluoroacetonylpyrazolide) are isostructural, with space group P1 and Z = 2. At 23 0 C for Th(C 6 H 3 ON 2 F 6 ) 4 α = 11.282 (5) A, b = 16.245 (7) A, c = 10.836 (5) A, α = 90.14 (5) 0 , β = 108.75 (5) 0 , and γ = 107.07 (5) 0 . For the uranium compound a = 11.302 (5) A, b = 16.377 (8) A, c = 11.000 (5) A, α = 87.85 (5) 0 , β = 111.02 (5) 0 , and γ = 109.95 (5) 0 . X-ray diffraction data were measured with a scintillation counter, theta-2theta scans, and Mo Kα radiation. For thorium the conventional R value is 0.026 for 2966 unique data with I greater than sigma(I), and for uranium it is 0.027 for 4125 unique data with I greater than sigma(I). The full-matrix least-squares refinement of the 598 parameters of each structure included anisotropic thermal parameters for the 61 nonhydrogen atoms and isotropic ones for the 12 hydrogen atoms. The actinide ion is at the center of an irregular polyhedron of four oxygen and four nitrogen atoms. The average Th-O, Th-N, U-O, and U-N distances are 2.291 (4), 2.637 (5), 2.237 (3), and 2.574 (5) A. The molecules are packed in a manner which resembles cubic closest packing but which is more nearly analogous to the body-centered tetragonal structure of protactinium metal

Laser based analytical spectroscopy of uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Argekar, A.A.; Kulkarni, M.J.; Godbole, S.V.; Page, A.G.; Samuel, J.K.; Paranjape, D.B.; Singh Mudher, K.D.

1992-01-01

Analytical spectroscopy of uranium has been studied using a XeCl excimer laser, using the fluorescence emission of U(VI) ions doped in a solid solution of sodium fluoride (NaF) and sodium chloride (NaCl) in 3:2 proportion. An electronic circuitry involving time-gating of the photomultiplier tube and facility to integrate the analytical signal over ten laser pulses has been developed to enable laser operation and signal detection with high S/N ratio. The matrix enhanced U(VI) fluorescence emission is free from chemical and spectral interferences due to the concomitant presence of ten metallic elements generally associated with uranium. The digital signal output is highly precise and does not saturate upto 5 ppm uranium concentration. X-ray diffraction patterns obtained for uranium doped compounds at 2.5% and 10% dopant concentrations are broadly similar to that of Na 2 U 2 O 7 . The detailed studies have, however, revealed fine structure for individual peaks, thereby, revealing the formation of sodium fluoro-uranate complex which is responsible for the enhanced intensity of fluorescence emission. (author). 10 refs., 6 figs., 2 tabs

Uranium prospecting; La prospection de l'uranium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Roubault, M [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1955-07-01

This report is an instruction book for uranium prospecting. It appeals to private prospecting. As prospecting is now a scientific and technical research, it cannot be done without preliminary studies. First of all, general prospecting methods are given with a recall of fundamental geologic data and some general principles which are common with all type of prospecting. The peculiarities of uranium prospecting are also presented and in particular the radioactivity property of uranium as well as the special aspect of uranium ores and the aspect of neighbouring ores. In a third part, a description of the different uranium ores is given and separated in two different categories: primary and secondary ores, according to the place of transformation, deep or near the crust surface respectively. In the first category, the primary ores include pitchblende, thorianite and rare uranium oxides as euxenite and fergusonite for example. In the second category, the secondary ores contain autunite and chalcolite for example. An exhaustive presentation of the geiger-Mueller counter is given with the presentation of its different components, its functioning and utilization and its maintenance. The radioactivity interpretation method is showed as well as the elaboration of a topographic map of the measured radioactivity. A brief presentation of other detection methods than geiger-Mueller counters is given: the measurement of fluorescence and a chemical test using the fluorescence properties of uranium salts. Finally, the main characteristics of uranium deposits are discussed. (M.P.)

The application of iterative transformation factor analysis to resolve multi-component EXAFS spectra of uranium(6) complexes with acetic acid as a function of pH

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Robberg, A.; Reich, T.

2002-01-01

Synchrotron-based EXAFS spectroscopy is a powerful technique to obtain structural information on radionuclide complexes in solution. Depending on the chemical conditions of the samples several radionuclide species can coexist in the solution as is often the case for environmentally related samples. All radionuclide species, which may have different near-neighbour environments, contribute to the measured EXAFS signal. In order to isolate the EXAFS spectra of the individual species (pure spectral components), it is necessary, in a first step, to measure a series of samples where their composition is changed by variation of one physico-chemical parameter (e.g. pH, concentration, etc.). For the spectral decomposition it is necessary that the EXAFS signal change as a function of the chosen physico-chemical parameter. In a second step, the series of EXAFS spectra is analysed with Eigen analysis and Iterative Transformation Factor Analysis (ITFA). As a result of the ITFA one obtains: a) for each sample the relative concentration of the structural distinguishable species and b) their corresponding pure spectral components. From the information obtained in a), one can construct a speciation diagram. The pure spectral components contain the structural information of the individual species, which can be extracted by conventional EXAFS analysis. To evaluate our ITFA algorithm for EXAFS analysis of mixtures, we prepared a series of eight solution samples of 0.05 M uranium(VI) and 1 M acetate (Ac) in the pH range of 0.1 to 4.5. From thermodynamic constants it is known that under these conditions up to four species can occur: uranyl hydrate, and the 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3 complexes of uranyl acetate. The uranium L III -edge EXAFS spectra were measured at room temperature in transmission mode at the Rossendorf Beamline (ROBL) at the ESRF. The average bond length between uranium and the equatorial oxygen atoms (O eq ) increases from 2.40 to 2.46 angstrom with increasing pH. This increase

Activation of Chalcogens and Chalcogenides at Reactive Uranium Centers

OpenAIRE

Franke, Sebastian

2015-01-01

The coordination chemistry of uranium has experienced a tremendous recent increase of interest within the last three decades, likely due to the fact that complexes of trivalent uranium can effectively engage activation and functionalization of small molecules, such as carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), dinitrogen (N2), or dioxygen (O2). Many small molecules are of great biochemical and industrial relevance, but their thermodynamical stability requires high pressures and temperatures...

Uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stewart, E.D.J.

1974-01-01

A discussion is given of uranium as an energy source in The Australian economy. Figures and predictions are presented on the world supply-demand position and also figures are given on the added value that can be achieved by the processing of uranium. Conclusions are drawn about Australia's future policy with regard to uranium (R.L.)

San Rafael mining and fabrication complex today

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Navarra, Pablo; Aldebert, Sergio R.

2005-01-01

In Mendoza province, 35 km West San Rafael city, is located a CNEA installation for uranium ore extraction and concentration: the San Rafael Mining and Fabrication Complex. By the middle of the nineties, as a consequence of the very low prices of uranium concentrate in the international market and of the high internal production costs, uranium extraction was stopped. To day, the international price of the concentrate had a very important increase and the Government has decided the completion of the Atucha II Nuclear Power Station construction. Moreover, studies have been started for new nuclear power plants. In such circumstances the reactivation of the Complex will make sure the uranium supply for our nuclear power stations, contributing to the improvement of the energy generation mix in our country. (author) [es

Contribution of analytical techniques coupled to the knowledge of the uranium speciation in natural conditions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Petit, J.

2009-06-01

To understand the transport mechanisms and the radionuclides behaviour in the bio-geosphere is necessary to evaluate healthy and environmental risks of nuclear industry. These mechanisms are monitored by radioelements speciation, namely the distribution between their different physico-chemical forms in the environment. From this perspective, this PhD thesis deals with uranium speciation in a natural background. A detailed summary of uranium biogeochemistry has been written, which enables to restrict the PhD issue to uranium complexation with oxalic acid, a hydrophilic organic acid with good binding properties, ubiquitous in soil waters. Analytical conditions have been established by means of speciation diagrams. The speciation diagrams building by means of literature stability constants has allowed to define the analytical conditions of complex formation. The chosen analytical technique is the hyphenation of a separative technique (liquid chromatography LC or capillary electrophoresis CE) with mass spectrometry (ICPMS). The studied complexes presence in the synthetic samples has been confirmed with UV/visible spectrophotometry. LC-ICPMS analyses have proved the lability of the uranyl-organic acid complexes, namely their tendency to dissociate during analysis, which prevents from studying uranium speciation. CE-ICPMS study of labile complexes from a metal-ligand system has been made possible by employing affinity capillary electrophoresis, which enables to determine stability constants and electrophoretic mobilities. This PhD thesis has allowed to compare the different mathematical treatments of binding isotherm and to take into account ionic strength and real ligand concentration. Affinity CE has been applied successfully to lanthanum-oxalate (model system) and uranium-oxalate systems. The obtained results have been applied to a real system (situated in Le Bouchet). This shows the contribution of the developed method to the modelling of uranium speciation. (author)

Uranium, depleted uranium, biological effects

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2001-01-01

Physicists, chemists and biologists at the CEA are developing scientific programs on the properties and uses of ionizing radiation. Since the CEA was created in 1945, a great deal of research has been carried out on the properties of natural, enriched and depleted uranium in cooperation with university laboratories and CNRS. There is a great deal of available data about uranium; thousands of analyses have been published in international reviews over more than 40 years. This presentation on uranium is a very brief summary of all these studies. (author)

Uranium-lead age determinations on granitic rocks from the eastern Bushveld Complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Faurie, J.N.

1978-08-01

Uranium-lead age determinations were carried out on four types of granitic rocks from the eastern Bushveld Complex. The oldest rocks in the area are gneisses and felsites - 2604 plus minus 100 m.y. old - which form the centre of the Dennilton dome. The Rooiberg felsites could not be dated directly because of the absence of zircon, however a porphyritic granite sill, which shows intrusive relations with the Rooiberg felsites, was dated at 2090 plus minus 40 m.y., an age which can also be regarded as a minimum age for the Rooiberg felsites. No reliable age could be determined for the granophyres because of the large amount of lead-loss reflected in the zircon. The majority of zircons from these granophyres showed a peculiar hieroglyphic texture, a phenomena which has not yet been recorded in literature. The samples collected from the granites gave an age of 1950 plus minus 80 m.y. and thus form part of the Nebo Granite. Attempts have been made to obtain more concordant zircon ages throughout the present study. Although some success was achieved by analysing different size fractions of a zircon population, the non-magnetic fractions gave the most promising results [af

Uranium redox transition pathways in acetate-amended sediments

Science.gov (United States)

Bargar, John R.; Williams, Kenneth H.; Campbell, Kate M.; Long, Philip E.; Stubbs, Joanne E.; Suvorova, Elenal I.; Lezama-Pacheco, Juan S.; Alessi, Daniel S.; Stylo, Malgorzata; Webb, Samuel M.; Davis, James A.; Giammar, Daniel E.; Blue, Lisa Y.; Bernier-Latmani, Rizlan

2013-01-01

Redox transitions of uranium [from U(VI) to U(IV)] in low-temperature sediments govern the mobility of uranium in the environment and the accumulation of uranium in ore bodies, and inform our understanding of Earth’s geochemical history. The molecular-scale mechanistic pathways of these transitions determine the U(IV) products formed, thus influencing uranium isotope fractionation, reoxidation, and transport in sediments. Studies that improve our understanding of these pathways have the potential to substantially advance process understanding across a number of earth sciences disciplines. Detailed mechanistic information regarding uranium redox transitions in field sediments is largely nonexistent, owing to the difficulty of directly observing molecular-scale processes in the subsurface and the compositional/physical complexity of subsurface systems. Here, we present results from an in situ study of uranium redox transitions occurring in aquifer sediments under sulfate-reducing conditions. Based on molecular-scale spectroscopic, pore-scale geochemical, and macroscale aqueous evidence, we propose a biotic–abiotic transition pathway in which biomass-hosted mackinawite (FeS) is an electron source to reduce U(VI) to U(IV), which subsequently reacts with biomass to produce monomeric U(IV) species. A species resembling nanoscale uraninite is also present, implying the operation of at least two redox transition pathways. The presence of multiple pathways in low-temperature sediments unifies apparently contrasting prior observations and helps to explain sustained uranium reduction under disparate biogeochemical conditions. These findings have direct implications for our understanding of uranium bioremediation, ore formation, and global geochemical processes.

Characterization and anion exchange removal of uranium from Hanford ground water

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Delegard, C.H.; Weiss, R.L.; Kimura, R.T.; Law, A.G.; Routson, R.C.

1986-01-01

In February 1985, uranium concentrations increased abruptly to 0.1 kgU/m/sup 3/ in ground waters underlying a retired liquid waste disposal facility in the United States Department of Energy-Richland Operations Hanford Site. Characterization tests showed the uranium was present as an anionic carbonate complex not sorbable by Hanford sediments. The uranium was mobilized by flow from a perched zone of water caused by recent nearby cooling water disposal above an impermeable sediment layer. In a unique demonstration of the concept of ''as low as reasonably achievable,'' efforts were immediately undertaken to minimize the spread of the plume and to reduce the amount of uranium in the ground water. An anion exchange-based uranium removal process flowsheet was rapidly developed and implemented. Operational for six months, the process has treated over 30,000 m/sup 3/ of ground water and collected 94% of the uranium while producing a treated effluent that meets criteria for discharge to the soil column

Meeting of the French geological society - Uranium: geology, geophysics, chemistry. Book of abstracts

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zakari, A.A.; Mima, S.; Bidaud, A.; Criqui, P.; Menanteau, P.; David, S.; Pagel, M.; Chagnes, A.; Cote, G.; Courtaud, B.; Thiry, J.; Miehe, J.M.; Gilbert, F.; Cuney, M.; Bruneton, P.; Ewington, D.; Vautrin-Ul, C.; Cannizzo, C.; Betelu, S.; Chausse, A.; Ly, J.; Bourgeois, D.; Maynadie, J.; Meyer, D.; Clavier, N.; Costin, D.T.; Cretaz, F.; Szenknect, S.; Ravaux, J.; Poinssot, C.; Dacheux, N.; Durupt, N.; Blanvillain, J.J.; Geffroy, F.; Aparicio, B.; Dubessy, J.; Nguyen-Trung, C.; Robert, P.; Uri, F.; Beaufort, D.; Lescuyer, J.L.; Morichon, E.; Allard, T.; Milesi, J.P.; Richard, A.; Rozsypal, C.; Mercadier, J.; Banks, D.A.; Boiron, M.C.; Cathelineau, M.; Dardel, J.; Billon, S.; Patrier, P.; Wattinne, A.; Vanderhaeghe, O.; Fabre, C.; Castillo, M.; Salvi, S.; Beziat, D.; Williams-Jones, A.E.; Trap, P.; Durand, C.; Goncalves, P.; Marquer, D.; Feybesse, J.L.; Richard, Y.; Orberger, B.; Hofmann, A.; Megneng, M.; Orberger, B.; Bouttemy, M.; Vigneron, J.; Etcheberry, A.; Perdicakis, M.; Prignon, N.; Toe, W.; Andre-Mayer, A.S.; Eglinger, A.; Jordaan, T.; Hocquet, S.; Ledru, P.; Selezneva, V.; Vendryes, G.; Lach, P.; Cuney, M.; Mercadier, J.; Brouand, M.; Duran, C.; Seydoux-Guillaume, A.M.; Bingen, B.; Parseval, P. de; Guillaume, D.; Bosse, V.; Paquette, J.L.; Ingrin, J.; Montel, J.M.; Giot, R.; Maucotel, F.; Hubert, S.; Gautheron, C.; Tassan-Got, L.; Pagel, M.; Barbarand, J.; Cuney, M.; Lach, P.; Bonhoure, J.; Leisen, M.; Kister, P.; Salaun, A.; Villemant, B.; Gerard, M.; Komorowski, J.C.; Michel, A.; Riegler, T.; Tartese, R.; Boulvais, P.; Poujols, M.; Gloaguen, E.; Mazzanti, M.; Mougel, V.; Nocton, G.; Biswas, B.; Pecaut, J.; Othmane, G.; Menguy, N.; Vercouter, T.; Morin, G.; Galoisy, L.; Calas, G.; Fayek, M.

2010-11-01

This document brings together the abstracts of the 39 presentations given at this meeting days on uranium, organized by the French geological society, and dealing with: 1 - Prospective study of the electronuclear technological transition; 2 - The front-end of the nuclear cycle: from the molecule to the process; 3 - Geophysics: recent changes; 4 - Use of well logging in uranium exploration; 5 - Genetical classification of thorium deposits; 6 - Genetical nomenclature of uranium sources; 7 - Uranium deposits linked to a Proterozoic discordance - retrospective; 8 - The use of spectral analysis techniques in uranium exploration: real-time mapping of clay alteration features; 9 - Development of functionalized silk-screened carbon electrodes for the analysis of uranium trace amounts; 10 - Study of the actinides solvation sphere in organic environment; 11 - Thermodynamic of uraniferous phases of interest for the nuclear cycle; 12 - Heap leaching of marginal minerals at Somair: from lab studies to the production of 700 t of uranium/year; 13 - Agglomeration phenomenology and role of iron in uranium heap leaching; 14 - Chloride uranyl complexes up to 300 deg. C along the saturation vapour curve: Raman spectroscopy analysis and metallogenic consequences; 15 - Weathering systems in the Shea Creek deposit (Athabasca, Canada): vertical variability of argillaceous weathering; 16 - Weathering systems in the Shea Creek deposit (Athabasca, Canada): contribution of irradiation defects in clays to the tracing of past uranium migrations; 17 - Uranium concentrations in mineralizing fluids of the Athabasca basin: analytical and experimental approach; 18 - Paleo-surfaces and metallic rooting: the autochthonous uranium of pre-Athabasca paleo-alterites, Canada; 19 - Distribution of argillaceous parageneses in the Imouraren deposit - Niger; 20 - Heat flux and radioelements concentration (U, Th, K) of precambrian basements: implications in terms of crust growth mechanisms, paleo

Potential Aquifer Vulnerability in Regions Down-Gradient from Uranium In Situ Recovery (ISR) Sites

Science.gov (United States)

Sandstone-hosted roll-front uranium ore deposits originate when U(VI) dissolved in groundwater is reduced and precipitated as insoluble U(IV) minerals. Groundwater redox geochemistry, aqueous complexation, and solute migration are instrumental in leaching uranium from source rock...

Fractal character of structural control on uranium mineralization in south china

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhou Quanyu; Tan Kaixuan; Xie Yanshi

2009-01-01

South China is the most important uranium producer in the country. Most uranium ore deposits in south China are strictly controlled by NE-NNE trending regional fracture structure. Fractal analyses on spatial distribution of uranium ore deposits and regional fracture structure in south China have been done in this paper. It indicates that the spatial distribution of both uranium ore deposits and regional fracture structure in south China show fractal character. The fractal dimension D=1.414 2 for the spatial distribution of regional fracture structure in the whole area indicate a higher ripening degree in the fracture structure evolution and an advantages to fluid flow and uranium mineralization. The fractal dimension D=1.052 7 for the spatial distribution of uranium ore deposits in south China show a lower complexity than regional fracture structure. The fractal dimensions in three sub-areas in south China on spatial distribution of uranium ore deposits show a positive correlation to which of regional fracture structure. The fractal spatial distribution of uranium ore deposits in south China is the result of the evolution of the fractal fracture structure system. (authors)

The genesis of surficial uranium deposits

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boyle, D.R.

1984-01-01

Surficial uranium deposits can form in such diverse environments as calcareous-dolomitic-gypsiferous fluvial and aeolian valley sediments in hot arid and semi-arid regions, oxidizing and reducing alkaline and saline playas, highly organic and/or clay-rich wetland areas, calcareous regoliths in arid terranes, laterites, lake sediments, and highly fractured zones in igneous and metamorphic basement complexes. Formation of ore is governed by the interrelationships between source of ore-forming elements, mechanisms of migration, environment of deposition, climate, preservation, tectonic history and structural framework. The principal factors controlling mobilization of ore-forming elements from source to site of deposition are the availability of elements in source rocks, presence of complexing agents, climate, nature of source rock regolith and structure of source rock terrane. The major processes governing precipitation of uranium in the surficial environment are reduction mechanisms, sorption processes, dissociation of uranyl complexes, change in redox states of ore-forming constituents, evaporation of surface and groundwaters, change in partial pressure of dissolved carbon dioxide, changes in pH, colloidal precipitation, and mixing of two or more surface and groundwaters. One or a number of these processes may be actively involved in ore formation. (author)

Uranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Toens, P.D.

1981-03-01

The geological setting of uranium resources in the world can be divided in two basic categories of resources and are defined as reasonably assured resources, estimated additional resources and speculative resources. Tables are given to illustrate these definitions. The increasing world production of uranium despite the cutback in the nuclear industry and the uranium requirements of the future concluded these lecture notes

Depleted uranium disposal options evaluation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hertzler, T.J.; Nishimoto, D.D.; Otis, M.D.

1994-05-01

The Department of Energy (DOE), Office of Environmental Restoration and Waste Management, has chartered a study to evaluate alternative management strategies for depleted uranium (DU) currently stored throughout the DOE complex. Historically, DU has been maintained as a strategic resource because of uses for DU metal and potential uses for further enrichment or for uranium oxide as breeder reactor blanket fuel. This study has focused on evaluating the disposal options for DU if it were considered a waste. This report is in no way declaring these DU reserves a ''waste,'' but is intended to provide baseline data for comparison with other management options for use of DU. To PICS considered in this report include: Retrievable disposal; permanent disposal; health hazards; radiation toxicity and chemical toxicity

Bottom-up construction of a superstructure in a porous uranium-organic crystal

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Li, Peng; Vermeulen, Nicolaas A.; Malliakas, Christos D.; G?mez-Gualdr?n, Diego A.; Howarth, Ashlee J.; Mehdi, B. Layla; Dohnalkova, Alice; Browning, Nigel D.; O?Keeffe, Michael; Farha, Omar K.

2017-04-20

Bottom-up construction of highly intricate structures from simple building blocks remains one of the most difficult challenges in chemistry. We report a structurally complex, mesoporous uranium-based metal-organic framework (MOF) made from simple starting components. The structure comprises 10 uranium nodes and seven tricarboxylate ligands (both crystallographically nonequivalent), resulting in a 173.3-angstrom cubic unit cell enclosing 816 uranium nodes and 816 organic linkers—the largest unit cell found to date for any nonbiological material. The cuboctahedra organize into pentagonal and hexagonal prismatic secondary structures, which then form tetrahedral and diamond quaternary topologies with unprecedented complexity. This packing results in the formation of colossal icosidodecahedral and rectified hexakaidecahedral cavities with internal diameters of 5.0 nanometers and 6.2 nanometers, respectively—ultimately giving rise to the lowest-density MOF reported to date.

Recovery of uranium from uranium bearing black shale

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Das, Amrita; Yadav, Manoj; Singh, Ajay K.

2016-01-01

Black shale is the unconventional resource of uranium. Recovery of uranium from black shale has been carried out by the following steps: i) size reduction, ii) leaching of uranium in the aqueous medium, iii) fluoride ion removal, iv) solvent extraction of uranium from the aqueous leach solution, v) scrubbing of the loaded solvent after extraction to remove impurities as much as possible and vi) stripping of uranium from the loaded organic into the aqueous phase. Leaching of black shale has been carried out in hydrochloric acid. Free acidity of the leach solution has been determined by potentiometric titration method. Removal of fluoride ions has been done using sodium chloride. Solvent extraction has been carried out by both tributyl phosphate and alamine-336 as extractants. Scrubbing has been tried with oxalic acid and sulphuric acid. Stripping with sodium carbonate solution has been carried out. Overall recovery of uranium is 95%. (author)

Uranium resources, 1983

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1983-01-01

The specific character of uranium as energy resources, the history of development of uranium resources, the production and reserve of uranium in the world, the prospect regarding the demand and supply of uranium, Japanese activity of exploring uranium resources in foreign countries and the state of development of uranium resources in various countries are reported. The formation of uranium deposits, the classification of uranium deposits and the reserve quantity of each type are described. As the geological environment of uranium deposits, there are six types, that is, quartz medium gravel conglomerate deposit, the deposit related to the unconformity in Proterozoic era, the dissemination type magma deposit, pegmatite deposit and contact deposit in igneaus rocks and metamorphic rocks, vein deposit, sandstone type deposit and the other types of deposit. The main features of respective types are explained. The most important uranium resources in Japan are those in the Tertiary formations, and most of the found reserve belongs to this type. The geological features, the state of yield and the scale of the deposits in Ningyotoge, Tono and Kanmon Mesozoic formation are reported. Uranium minerals, the promising districts in the world, and the matters related to the exploration and mining of uranium are described. (Kako, I.)

Developing a rapid method for the determination of uranium in pure phosphoric acid and D2 EHPA

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Koudsi, Y.; Stas, J.; Al-Merey, R.; shaddoud, G.

1996-02-01

Arsenazo (III) used in titrate uranium spectrophotometrically in phosphoric acid after its extraction into organic phase. In this work we used arsenazo(III) to complex uranyl ion in pure phosphoric acid and in the aqueous phase. The spectrum of the complex shows that λ max is at 650 nm. The linearity of the method is corelated with acid molarity, it is (1 -4, 10 - 30, 10 - 40) ppm uranium for (0.2, 1, 2) M of phosphoric acid respectively. Uranium in D 2 EHPA stripped by phosphoric acid and then determined by this method. Also it has been applied to determine uranium in pure perchloric acid. The method is direct, rapid, very cheap and relatively accurate. (author)

Sensitivity analysis of uranium solubility under strongly oxidizing conditions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu, L.; Neretnieks, I.

1999-01-01

To evaluate the effect of geochemical conditions in the repository on the solubility of uranium under strongly oxidizing conditions, a mathematical model has been developed to determine the solubility, by utilizing a set of nonlinear algebraic equations to describe the chemical equilibria in the groundwater environment. The model takes into account the predominant precipitation-dissolution reactions, hydrolysis reactions and complexation reactions that may occur under strongly oxidizing conditions. The model also includes the solubility-limiting solids induced by the presence of carbonate, phosphate, silicate, calcium, and sodium in the groundwater. The thermodynamic equilibrium constants used in the solubility calculations are essentially taken from the NEA Thermochemical Data Base of Uranium, with some modification and some uranium minerals added, such as soddyite, rutherfordite, uranophane, uranyl orthophosphate, and becquerelite. By applying this model, the sensitivities of uranium solubility to variations in the concentrations of various groundwater component species are systematically investigated. The results show that the total analytical concentrations of carbonate, phosphate, silicate, and calcium in deep groundwater play the most important role in determining the solubility of uranium under strongly oxidizing conditions

Simultaneous determination of uranium and thorium with Arsenazo III by second-derivative spectrophotometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kuroda, Rokuro; Kurosaki, Mayumi; Hayashibe, Yutaka; Ishimaru, Satomi

1990-01-01

A derivative spectrophotometric method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of microgram quantities of uranium and thorium with Arsenazo III in hydrochloric acid medium. The second-derivative absorbances of the uranium and thorium Arsenazo III complexes at 679.5 and 684.4 nm are used for their quantification. Uranium and thorium, both in the range 0.1-0.7 μg/ml have been determined simultaneously with good precision. The procedure does not require separation of uranium and thorium, and allows the determination of both metals in the presence of alkaline-earth metals and zirconium, but lanthanides interfere. (author)

Study of the impact of environmental bacteria ob uranium speciation in order to engage bioremediation process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Untereiner, G.

2008-11-01

Uranium is both a radiological and a chemical toxic. Its concentration in the environment is low except when human activities have caused pollution. Uranium is a heavy reactive element, and thus it is easily complexed with soil component like minerals or organic molecules. These different complexes can be more or less bioavailable for microorganisms and plants, and then get in the human food chain. The knowledge and the understanding of transfer mechanisms and also the fate of toxic elements in the biosphere are a key issue to estimate health and ecological hazards. The knowledge of the speciation is very important for bioremediation processes. Here, we focused on the microorganisms effects onto uranium speciation in environment. Bacteria can accumulate and/or transform uranium depending on the initial form of the element. Thus, its bioavailability could be changed. The species used in this work are Cupriavidus metallidurans CH34, which is an environmental bacteria with a high resistance to heavy metal, Deinococcus radiodurans R1, which is known for his radiological resistance, and Rhodopseudomonas palustris, which is a purple photo-trophic bacteria capable of degrading aromatic compounds. Two forms of uranium were used with these bacteria, a mineral one, uranyl carbonate, and an organic one, uranyl citrate. In a first step, the growth media were modified in order to stabilize uranium complexes thanks to a simulation program. Then, the capacity of the bacteria to accumulate or transform uranium was studied. We saw a difference between minimal inhibition concentrations of these two speciation which is due to a difference between phosphate bioavailability. No accumulation was observed with environmental pH but uranium precipitation was observed with acidic pH (pH 1). Uranium speciation seemed to be well controlled in the growth media and the precipitates were uranyl phosphate. (author)

Uranium chemistry in blood and aqueous media. Techniques of studies; Chimie de l`uranium en milieux aqueux et sanguin. Techniques d`etudes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Scapolan, St

1996-11-01

The object of this report in a first step, is to understand the chemistry of uranium in aqueous phase by specifying the behavior of this element in function of several parameters such PH, concentration of present species, temperature, ionic force. In a second step, investigation techniques are reviewed: X rays diffraction, potentiometric titrations, polarography, spectrophotometry, NMR of {sup 13}C, {sup 31}P, {sup 17}O, capillary electrophoresis, laser detection. The third part brings elements to understand the uranium complexation in blood medium.