This lecture introduces the chemistry of americium and curium. Both elements are discussed due to their similar chemical behavior, particularly in separations. However, important differences in their chemistry are highlighted. For americium pentavalent and hexavalent species are achievable. For curium, its unique fluorescence properties are highlighted. The nuclear properties of americium and curium isotopes are provided. Isotope production focus on those formed from multiple neutron capture. These isotopes, 241Am, 243Am, 244Cm and 248Cm, are used to explore americium and curium chemistry. The basic solution chemistry is described, along with implications for fuel cycle separations. Methods for the separation of americium and curium are provided, including solvent extractions, anion exchange, precipitation, and molten salt techniques. Synthesis and characterization of americium and curium metals, alloys, and compounds are provided, with emphasis placed on those compounds of importance to the nuclear fuel cycle. The non-aqueous and coordination chemistry of these elements are introduced. The limited available data offers an avenue for novel explorations and future research directions.
PDF Quiz 15 posted
ReplyDeleteI don't quite understand the explanation of the 9 coordination sites of Cm with water being due to its "fluorescence lifetimes" as described in both the lecture and the readings. I had trouble tracking down the 2 Kimura papers cited in the reading and was just curious as to what connection there was between Cm coordination with water and its fluorescent properties.
ReplyDeleteYes, the 2 Kimura papers were difficult to find and I too would appreciate a further explanation on the 9 coordination sites.
DeleteIt is amazing how similar, yet different Americium and Curium are. I am glad these were the last elements we covered, because learning the properties of the other elements helped to understand most of the properties of these and reasonings behind them.
ReplyDeletethanks for the comments. While we could discuss Bk and the elements beyond, the synthetic chemistry and role in the fuel cycle becomes greatly reduced.
DeleteInteresting lecture considering there are many ways to extract Americium.
ReplyDeletethanks for the comments!
DeleteInformative lecture especially regarding extraction techniques and ligands for Am and Cm
ReplyDeletethe complexation chemistry of Am and Cm has been a topic of interest for the nuclear fuel cycle.
DeleteIt was interesting to see the comparison between Americium and Curium.
ReplyDeleteI like that we use Am in smoke detectors. It makes me wonder how many people are unaware of the radioactive material in their home.
ReplyDeleteI would venture to guess many people do not know about Am in smoke detectors.
DeleteThe comments to PDF Quiz 15 are posted.
ReplyDeleteThis was a very good lecture, as always. I liked learning about the different ways to extract Americium.
ReplyDeletethanks for your comments!
DeleteAgreeing with Kevin, I always thought that it was odd how people don't seem to realize how certain radioactive substances can be found in a house like a smoke detector.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments and viewing the other blog comments
DeleteI enjoyed working on this quiz because we had to use the UV-visible absorbence spectrum again. I also enjoyed learning about the coordination chemistry for Americium.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed learning about molten salts in this lecture. I've done research related to the liquid phase of ionic compounds in the past, but I've never dealt with anything of the sort in a class before.
ReplyDeleteI have read about the process for molten salts before and did not understand it too well until after watching this lecture it gave me a better understanding on it.
ReplyDelete