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Thermal decomposition of curium tetrafluoride and terbium tetrafluoride

Journal Article · · J. Solid State Chem.; (United States)
The thermal decomposition of both curium and terbium tetrafluorides have been studied using mass spectrometry to monitor the effusate from a Knudsen cell containing the condensed fluoride. Curium tetrafluoride was found to decompose at 330-430/sup 0/C in vacuum. A Second Law enthalpy of 26.3 +/- 2 kcal/mole (at 370/sup 0/C) is derived from van't Hoff plots of results obtained for the decomposition reaction: CmF/sub 4/(s) ..-->.. CmF/sub 3/(s) + 1/2F/sub 2/(g). Decomposition fluorine pressures are derived and comparison is made with related studies of terbium tetrafluoride carried out in conjunction with the curium experiments. The results are compared both with data reported in the literature for lanthanide and actinide tetrafluorides and with predictions that have been made for CmF/sub 4/.
Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-84OR21400
OSTI ID:
7004142
Journal Information:
J. Solid State Chem.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Solid State Chem.; (United States) Vol. 73:2; ISSN JSSCB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English