The full development and implementation of solvent extraction-based nuclear waste reprocessing separations requires an understanding of the radiation-induced ligand degradation occurring.  Radiation effects on solvent extraction formulations may result in decreased ligand concentration, lower metal distribution ratios, reduced separation factors through the generation of undesired complexing products, and impaired solvent performance due to films, precipitates, and increased viscosity.  Recently, we have undertaken a systematic investigation into the kinetics of some of the important radicals (hydroxyl, ?OH, and nitrate, NO3?) with extraction ligands (e.g. TBP, DTPA) and modifier/buffers (e.g. Cs-7SB, lactic acid).  These measured rate constants are also compared to distribution ratio values for solvent systems irradiated by both gamma and alpha irradiation.

Radiation-induced radical degradation kinetics of separations ligands

244th National Meeting (2012)

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