Electrochemical Signal Measurement and Analysis for Metal Deposition in Molten LiCl-KCl Eutectic

Electrochemistry is being studied by many researchers in multiple countries as a viable means for IAEA inspectors or host country operators to monitor nuclear material in pyroprocessing. In order to use electrochemistry to accurately monitor nuclear material, electrochemical parameters and properties need to be accurately and consistently quantified. Parameters such as working electrode surface area and reference electrode potential can dramatically impact the concentration predictions made using electrochemical signals. If they are inaccurately and inconsistently quantified, significant errors can be introduced. Likewise, inaccurate and inconsistent species properties, such as diffusion coefficient and standard apparent potential, can impact predictions. Yet, currently, the electrochemical experiments being performed to quantify these important parameters and properties are being carried out and analyzed inconsistently. In order to help form a consistent approach to measuring and analyzing electrochemical signals, the current experimental and analytical methods being used for high- temperature electrochemistry in molten eutectic LiCl-KCl are reviewed. Common errors and inconsistencies and their impact on concentration predictions are identified and demonstrated to promote the need for a consensus in this area.