Year
2013
Abstract
This work builds upon previous related studies of UV-Visible spectroscopic online monitoring that were applied for safeguards and materials accountability in traditional used nuclear fuel separation techniques[1–6]. Currently, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is investigating flowsheets to enhance efficiencies and address waste streams associated with Mark-42 target material processing. For this task, an ideal tool for material tracking and process control would provide real-time, online measurements of relevant elements and chemical conditions in process streams at a separations facility. To meet this goal, UV-Visible-NIR spectroscopy has been adapted for use in the hot cell mixer-settler contactors in ORNL’s Radiochemical Engineering Development Center (REDC). Spectral measurements were taken over the course of a reverse TALSPEAK (Trivalent Actinide Lanthanide Separation by Phosphorous reagent Extraction from Aqueous Komplexes) process intended to produce separate americium/curium (Am/Cm) and lanthanide (Ln) products. These spectra show that the flowsheet behaved as intended and successfully extracted Am, Cm, and lanthanides, followed by selectively stripping an actinide product followed by a Ln product. There was good correlation between UV-Visible-NIR collected spectra and subsequent radiochemical analysis.