Studies on Pu238 induced alpha radiolysis of the solvent TBP

Abstract

Radiolysis and degradation of a 30 % volume mixture of TBP in n-dodecane has been studied by means of alpha radiation from Pu 238 . Radiolysis effects are quantitatively estimated by the percent of Pu 238 retained in the irradiated organic phase after the washing procedure. The effects of radiation dose, nitric acid concentration, and the presence of UO 2 2? and Zr 4? , have been investigated. The results indicate that Zr 4? accelerates the alpha-particle degradation of the organic phase, and that both UO 2 2? and Pu 4? complex with the degradation products formed by the absorbed radiation.

UV-a photocatalytic degradation of the radionuclide complexants tributylphosphate and dibutylphosphate

“…The nitric acid, extractant and solvent used in these processes have to be recycled and the liquid and gaseous effluents and solid waste have to be managed. Furthermore, the irradiation of TBP during the extraction process by the actinides and fission products, leads to the formation of radiolysis products, namely dibutylphosphate (DBP), monobutylphosphate, organic acids and butanol [3,4]. Therefore, the secondary liquid waste could contain residual TBP and DBP, which can cause emulsification and act as actinide complexants.…”

Status Summary of Chemical Processing Development in Plutonium-238 Supply Program

“…The rate of solvent degradation, its impact on separation performance, and the capability for solvent regeneration have not yet been quantified. Calculations of anticipated radiation dose to solvent during a short (~24 h) test indicates there may not be significant degradation compared to recently published information (Gao et al 2015).…”