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

Method for providing uranium articles with a corrosion resistant anodized coating

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5170359

Uranium articles are provided with anodized oxide coatings in an aqueous solution of an electrolyte selected from the group consisting of potassium phosphate, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, and a mixture of potassium tetraborate and boric acid. The uranium articles are anodized at a temperature greater than about 75 degrees C. With a current flow of less than about 0.036 A/cm2 of surface area while the Ph of the solution is maintained in a range of about 2 to 11.5. The Ph values of the aqueous solution and the low current density utilized during the electrolysis prevent excessive dissolution of the uranium and porosity in the film or watering. The relatively high temperature of the electrolyte bath inhibits hydration and the attendant deleterious pitting so as to enhance corrosion resistance of the anodized coating.

Assignee:
Dept. Of Energy
Patent Number(s):
US 4325791
OSTI ID:
5170359
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English