Temperature dependence and effect of oxide anion on the americium chemistry in the molten LiCl-KCl eutectic

Abstract

Summary The chemical properties of americium chlorides have been studied in the fused eutectic LiCl-KCl as a function of temperature ranging from 743K to 943K. Titration of Am(III) chlorocomplex by O 2- demonstrated the existence of soluble AmO + species as well as the precipitation of AmOCl and Am 2 O 3 solid compounds. The corresponding solubility products of AmOCl and Am 2 O 3 have been determined. Calculated Am(II) disproportionation equilibrium constant indicates that the stability of Am(II) chlorocomplex increases with the increase of temperature.