Energy transfer in the gamma radiolytic decomposition of sodium and potassium nitrates dispersed in phosphate, sulfate and carbonate matrices in solid state

Abstract

Gamma radiolytic decomposition of sodium and potassium nitrates dispersed in respective phosphate, sulfate and carbonate matrices has been studied over a wide absorbed dose range upto 300 kGy. Decomposition of nitrates increases with the concentration of the additive in the admixtures. G(N0;) values, calculated on the basis of electron fraction of the nitrate decreases with the absorbed dose and with the increasing concentration (or mol %) of the nitrate. Thermoluminescence (TL) and Electron Spin Resonance (ESR) studies suggest the formation of radical species which may interact with NO; causing enhancement in the decomposition process. A comparison of G-values for three additives suggests that the efficiency of the energy transfer decreases in the order PO:. > COf > SO: -and depends on the nature and the concentration of the additive as well as the nature of catiodanion.

Enhancement in gamma-ray induced decomposition of sodium and potassium nitrates by borate and cyanide additives

“…14 Electron spin resonance (ESR) and thermoluminiscence (TL) measurements have shown the formation of radical species in oxyanions by the absorption of radiation. 5,7,14 The present work deals with the ,/-ray induced decomposition of sodium and potassium nitrates with respective to borates and cyanides at varying compositions and absorbed doses. In order to confirm the role of radical species in decomposition process ESR measurements have been carried out.…”