Determination of neptunium by controlled-potential coulometry

Conference · Sun Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1989

OSTI ID:6210577

Holland, M. K.; Dorsett, R. S.

The capability for reliable neptunium-237 measurement is important for nuclear material reprocessing and production. The Savannah River computer-controlled, controlled-potential coulometer has been successfully applied to the measurement/characterization of pure neptunium solutions. The definitive measurement capability achieved is especially important because of the lack of a neptunium primary reference material. The coulometer is calibrated electrically based upon Ohm's Law, Faraday's Law, and the Nernst Equation, and two measurement methods are used. A neptunium measurement, which uses an electrochemical oxidation state adjustment, nitric acid supporting electrolyte, and a gold stationary electrode, was developed by the authors and automated. The neptunium measurement methodology that uses ceric ion oxidation state adjustment sulfuric acid supporting electrolyte and a platinum stationary electrode was automated for use as a second, confirmatory measurement method. Measurement reliability of 99.9% has been demonstrated. The significant aspects of these development efforts are discussed. 16 refs., 2 tabs.

• Research Organization: Du Pont de Nemours (E.I.) and Co., Aiken, SC (USA). Savannah River Plant
• DOE Contract Number: AC09-76SR00001; AC09-89SR18035
• OSTI ID: 6210577
• Report Number(s): DP-MS-88-218; CONF-890617-1; ON: DE89011627
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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