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Title: The Radiation Chemistry of Radiochemical Separations: A Review

Journal Article · · Radiochimica Acta

Radiochemistry deals with the chemistry of the radioactive elements, especially with regard to separations, while radiation chemistry is concerned with the chemical effects of ionizing radiation. The most common types of radiation encountered by the radiochemist are low linear energy transfer (LET) ß- and ? radiation, and higher LET a radiation. These radiations can have profound and important effects on radiochemistry, including changes in metal oxidation states and degradation of the organic ligands designed to complex radioelements. This may occur by direct action of the incident radiation on compounds present with high abundance or by reaction with radiolytically produced reactive species for trace components, such as the complexing agents used in separations. This review examines the role of reactive species created in irradiated aqueous and organic solution and their effects on radiochemistry. Examples are provided related to solvent extraction from acidic solution, metal complexation in alkaline tank waste, and the corrosion of spent fuel stored in repository brine. Radiolytic actinide and fission product metal redox reactions are also discussed.

Research Organization:
Idaho National Lab. (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
DOE - NE
DOE Contract Number:
DE-AC07-05ID14517
OSTI ID:
969055
Report Number(s):
INL/JOU-08-14635; RAACAP; TRN: US1000096
Journal Information:
Radiochimica Acta, Vol. 97, Issue 9; ISSN 0033-8230
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English