Method to produce salts containing actinide halides
US11104585B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 6, 2018 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 6, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02W30/50
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of producing uranium halides is disclosed in which chlorine gas is introduced into a liquid uranium-nickel alloy. NaCl salt is surrounding the crucible containing the liquid uranium-nickel alloy, producing a eutectic mixture of NaCl—UCl3. Upon chlorination, the metal halide dissolves in the matrix salt forming a solution. Adding the reactant metal, uranium to the nickel, the alloy is able to remain molten throughout processing. The liquid metal alloy may be removed from the salt bath, while the halogen gas continues to enter the system through the sparge until the desired composition of NaCl—UCl3—UCl4 is achieved. The method and system can be used to produce other metal halide salts such as actinide, lanthanide or transition metal halides contained in a matrix salt consisting of alkali and/or alkaline earth halides.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.