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Electrolytic Production of Uranium Metal from Uranium Oxides

Journal Article · · Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, Process Design and Development
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/i260003a009· OSTI ID:4816474

Massive uranium metal which exceeds AEC specifications for purity was produced with nearly 100% recovery from uranium oxides. Electrolysis at 1150 deg C in a fused fluoride electrolyte produces molten metal. Oxides are excluded from the metal product to obtain well coalesced metal, by incorporating the oxide to be reduced in a consumable uranium oxide-- carbon anode. Means of preparing uranium oxide-- carbon anodes with electrical resistivities of less than 0.03 ohm- cm were found. Cell designs amenable to continuous operation were developed on a laboratory scale.

Research Organization:
Mallinckrodt Chemical Works, St. Charles, Mo.
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
NSA Number:
NSA-16-020527
OSTI ID:
4816474
Journal Information:
Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, Process Design and Development, Journal Name: Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, Process Design and Development Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 1; ISSN 0196-4305
Country of Publication:
Country unknown/Code not available
Language:
English