Abstract
The Uranium Extraction (UREX) family of processes uses solvent extraction techniques designed to partition spent uranium and transuranic (TRU) isotopes from fission product waste. Once separated, the collective TRU elements (Np, Pu, Am, and Cm) can be recycled in advanced nuclear energy systems. A zirconium matrix cermet is proposed as a fuel form for this application. Processing methods have been designed to convert the TRU product and spent Zircaloy cladding into feed materials for the hot extrusion of the cermet fuel pins. The TRU conversion process is being developed using a surrogate mixture of uranium and cerium nitrate solutions to generate mixed oxide microspheres. The Zircaloy recovery process is a hydride-dehydride method that is being demonstrated at the bench scale. The powder products from these methods may be combined through hot extrusion into a cermet composite; demonstration experiments using zirconium powder and zirconia microspheres have been completed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
