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U.S. Department of Energy
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PROCESS OF PREPARING A FLUORIDE OF TETRAVLENT URANIUM

Patent ·
OSTI ID:4252992

A method is described for producing a fluoride salt pf tetravalent uranium suitable for bomb reduction to metallic uranium. An aqueous solution of uranyl nitrate is treated with acetic acid and a nitrite-suppressor and then contacted with metallic lead whereby uranium is reduced from the hexavalent to the tetravalent state and soluble lead acetate is formed. Sulfate ions are then added to the solution to precipitate and remove the lead values. Hydrofluoric acid and alkali metal ions are then added causing the formation of an alkali metal uranium double-fluoride in which the uranium is in the tetravalent state. After recovery, this precipitate is suitable for using in the limited production of metallic uranium.

Research Organization:
Naval Research Lab., Washington, D.C.
NSA Number:
NSA-13-015128
Assignee:
U.S. Atomic Energy Commission
Patent Number(s):
IGR 109(O/W); US 2874026
OSTI ID:
4252992
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English