PNNL

Abstract

The Plutonium Uranium Extraction (PUREX) solvent system was developed for the separation of plutonium and uranium from irradiated fuel. Since the implementation of this process, the degradation chemistry associated with the irradiated solvent system, tributyl phosphate (TBP)/n-dodecane/nitric acid has been extensively studied as the integrity of the organic solvent is paramount for reproducible performance of the separation flowsheet (extraction/scrub/strip) during multiple cycles. In PUREX-like processes, the extent of decomposition is dependent not only upon the solvent, but also upon the presence of constituents, such as nitric acid, that interact with TBP and increase its susceptibility to radiolytic degradation. The build-up of degradation products in the organic phase alters process flowsheet performance via modification of the metal ions speciation, loss of solvent components, and enhanced water transport into the organic phase. On-line identification and quantification of the solvent degradation products would provide the necessary information for more detailed process control as well as providing the basis for timing solvent washing or replacement. In our research, we are exploring the potential of on-line monitoring for the PUREX solvent radiolytic degradation products. To identify degradation products, TBP/n-dodecane solvent, contacted with aqueous nitric acid solutions of variable concentrations are subjected to various gamma radiation external doses then analyzed by electro-spray ionization mass spectrometry (ESMS). In addition, vibrational spectroscopy is utilized to monitor and quantify major degradation products including dibutyl phosphoric acid (HDBP) and monobutyl phosphoric acid (H2MBP) in TBP/n-dodecane solvent. The compiled spectroscopic databases serve for developing interpretive and predictive chemometric models for the quantification of the PUREX solvent degradation products.