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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

DISSOLUTION OF ZIRCONIUM AND ALLOYS THEREFOR

Patent ·
OSTI ID:4065756

The dissolution of zirconium cladding in a water solution of ammonium fluoride and ammonium nitrate is described. The method finds particular utility in processing spent fuel elements for nuclear reactors. The zirconium cladding is first dissolved in a water solution of ammonium fluoride and ammonium nitrate; insoluble uranium and plutonium fiuorides formed by attack of the solvent on the fuel materiai of the fuel element are then separated from the solution, and the fuel materiai is dissolved in another solution.

Research Organization:
Originating Research Org. not identified
NSA Number:
NSA-15-022381
Assignee:
U.S. Atomic Energy Commission
Patent Number(s):
US 2992067
OSTI ID:
4065756
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English