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FPEX gamma-Radiolysis in the Presence of Nitric Acid

Journal Article · · Solvent Extraction and Ion Exchange

Abstract: The solvent formulation known as FPEX (Fission Product Extraction) contains calix[4]arene-bis-(tert-octylbenzo-crown-6) (BOBCalixC6) for Cs extraction; 4,4’,(5’)-di-(t-butyldicyclohexano)-18-crown-6 (DtBuCH18C6) for Sr extraction; 1-(2,2,3,3,-tetrafluoropropoxy)-3-(4-sec-butylphenoxy)-2-propanol (Cs-7SB) modifier and trioctylamine (TOA) to aid in Cs stripping, all in Isopar L diluent. This formulation has favorable extraction efficiency for Cs and Sr from acidic solution, and was investigated here for ?-radiation stability. When FPEX was irradiated in contact with aqueous nitric acid, extraction efficiency decreased only slightly when irradiated to absorbed doses as high as 200 kGy. The color of the organic phase changed to a deep yellow-orange, and several new peaks related to radiolysis of the Cs-7SB modifier were detected by GC-ECD analysis. This had little effect on solvent extraction distribution ratios. Possible reasons for this unexpected robustness under conditions of high radiation and acidity are discussed.

Research Organization:
Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
Sponsoring Organization:
DOE - NE
DOE Contract Number:
AC07-99ID13727
OSTI ID:
917073
Report Number(s):
INL/JOU-07-12327
Journal Information:
Solvent Extraction and Ion Exchange, Journal Name: Solvent Extraction and Ion Exchange Journal Issue: 5 Vol. 25; ISSN 0736-6299; ISSN SEIEDB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English