POWDERS FOR EXTINGUISHING FIRES
The development of a powder suitable for extinguishing fires of burning U, Pu, or Th is described. The powder consists of a mixture of powdered inorganic chlorides and/or fluorides inert towards the bunning metal. The mixture has a melting point below the melting point of the burning metal such that fusion of the powder takes place locally where the powder contacts the burning metal. A frit is formed around the locally fused portion of the powder, excluding the ambient atmosphere from the metal. Absorption of latent heat by fusion of the locally fused portion of the powder exerts a chilling effect on the metal. Examples of preferred powder mixtures are given. The mixture can be prepared by grinding the components together, but preferably the components are fused together before grinding to facilitate melting upon application to a fire. After a fire has been extinguished, U or Pu may be recovered from the residues by leaching with water to remove the soluble chlorides. (P.C.H.)
- Research Organization:
- Originating Research Org. not identified
- NSA Number:
- NSA-17-029154
- Assignee:
- United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority
- Patent Number(s):
- US 3095372
- OSTI ID:
- 4702260
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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