Bench scale experiments were conducted to determine the dissolution characteristics of uranium oxide powders (UO2, U3O8, and UO3) in aqueous peroxide-carbonate solutions. Experimental parameters included H2O2 concentration, carbonate counter cation (NH4+, Na+, K+, and Rb+), and pH. Results indicate the dissolution rate of UO2 in 1 M (NH4)2CO3 increases linearly with peroxide concentration ranging from 0.05 – 2 M. The three uranium oxide powders exhibited different dissolution patterns however, UO3 exhibited prompt complete dissolution. Carbonate counter cation affected the dissolution kinetics. There is minimal impact of solution pH, over the range 8.8 to 10.6, on initial dissolution rate.
Revised: October 7, 2011 |
Published: November 1, 2009
Citation
Smith S.C., S.M. Peper, M. Douglas, K.L. Ziegelgruber, and E.C. Finn. 2009.Dissolution of Uranium Oxides Under Alkaline Oxidizing Conditions.Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry 282, no. 2:617-621.PNNL-SA-66033.doi:10.1007/s10967-009-0182-8