We have measured the standard potentials of the system U(III)/U(0), in the molten LiCl‐KCl eutectic, within the temperature range from 400 to 550°C. The cell used has been the following:
The work has been carried out in glove‐boxes, under inert atmosphere, and special care has been taken in preventing even the slightest oxidation of U(III).
A comparison has been made with previous results, obtained by different Authors.
The reaction U(IV)+e⇆U(III) in molten LiCl‐KCl eutectic has been investigated by means of chronopotentiometry. The diffusion coefficient of U(IV) passes from 4.46 . 10−6 to 12.15 . 10−6 cm2/sec. when the temperature increases from 400°C to 500°C.
The diffusion coefficient of U(III) passes from 4.14 . 10−6 to 13.62 . 10−6 cm2/sec. when the temperature increases from 400°C to 550°C.
The mechanism of diffusion is discussed and the hypothesis is put forward that for each ion there is a temperature at which the diffusion takes place according to the viscous flow mechanism.
Some aspects of the kinetics of the reaction are also clarified.
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