Determination of neptunium by controlled-potential coulometry
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 working electrode, was developed by the authors and automated. The neptunium measurement methodology by Stromatt et al., which 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., 1 tab.
- Research Organization:
- Westinghouse Savannah River Co., Aiken, SC (USA)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- DOE/DP
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC09-89SR18035
- OSTI ID:
- 6345978
- Report Number(s):
- DP-MS-88-218-Rev.1; CONF-890617--1-Rev.1; ON: DE91005681
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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