| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2020 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Materials and Chemistry for Molten Salt Systems
|
| Presentation Title |
H-18: Maximization of Reduction Cell Efficiency for Spent Uranium Oxide Fuel |
| Author(s) |
Jarom L. Chamberlain, Michael Simpson |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Jarom L. Chamberlain |
| Abstract Scope |
In support of closing the nuclear fuel cycle, spent uranium oxide-based fuel undergoes a pyroprocessing operation to produce metallic fast reactor fuel. In this process UO2 is reduced either metallothermically after Li metal is generated or via direct electrolytic reduction. We report successful control over the mechanism by which the reduction proceeds. The mechanisms are controlled by configuring the electric lead in the cathode basket to contact either the UO2 or molten salt. To maximize current efficiency in the reduction cell, the reaction of O2 with reduced metals (Li or U) should be minimized along with elimination of hydroxides in the salt. An anode shroud has been tested to prevent oxygen from reoxidizing the reduced uranium metal or lithium. Salt purification has been developed to remove hydroxides that reduce current efficiency. We present cell efficiency data based on UO2 reduction measurements made using both thermogravimetric analysis and LECO oxygen analysis. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: Supplemental Proceedings volume |