Characterization of Chemical Changes Observed for Uranium Particulate Materials
EMSL Project ID
46396
Abstract
Small uranium particulates emanating from nuclear fuel cycle and weaponization processes can be collected at significant distances from their source. The chemical and physical characteristics of these particles will depend on the production environment while their stability is determined by internal reactions with themselves, other environmental conditions and matrices in which they settle on. Therefore, a greater understanding of dispersed uranium bearing particulate chemistry will allow more accurate fate and transport models, enhanced design of collection systems, and improved analytical characterization methodologies. This information could be applied to differentiate anthropogenic from naturally occurring materials, allowing identification of production source based upon the chemical species present in the sample and reducing isotopic ratio dilution of source material. The project will focus on generation of uranium particulate materials from high probability nuclear fuel cycle or weaponization processes (e.g., PUREX and metal fabrication). These particulates will be compared to available samples of opportunity collected in collaboration with existing projects at Y-12, LANL, SRS H-canyon, and/or other facilities. Samples will be characterized with a suite of microscopy and spectroscopy tools to examine changes in chemical species after exposure to environmental matrices (e.g. iron oxides) and stresses (e.g. humidity). Complete characterization of the weathered materials may lead to unique signatures that could be employed to suggest a source for collected material. This knowledge will allow for development of more advanced collection technology, improved separation and analysis capabilities, and an ability to link detected species to specific processes of interest.
Project Details
Project type
Exploratory Research
Start Date
2012-01-02
End Date
2013-02-12
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members