Oxidation kinetics of plutonium in air: Consequences for environmental dispersal
Kinetic studies show that plutonium corrosion in air is catalyzed by plutonium hydride on the metal surface and suggest that the process has caused storage containers to fail. The catalyzed reaction initiates at 25{degrees}C, indiscriminately consumes both O{sub 2} and N{sub 2}, and transforms metal into a dispersible product at a 10{sup 7}-10{sup 10} faster rate (0.6 {+-} 0.1 g Pu/cm{sup 2} min) than normal air oxidation. The catalyzed Pu+O{sub 2} reaction advances into the metal at a linear rate of 2.9 m/h. Rate equations and particle size data, which are presented for catalyzed and atmospheric corrosion at temperatures up to 3500{degrees}C, provide a technical basis for more accurately assessing the dispersal hazard posed by plutonium metal.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Lab., NM (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Environmental Restoration and Waste Management, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-36
- OSTI ID:
- 538053
- Report Number(s):
- LA-UR--97-2592; CONF-970907--; ON: DE97008884
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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