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Dissociation of the UF6 molecule under the action of fragments from fission of the uranium nucleus

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The Soviet Journal of Atomic Energy Aims and scope

Abstract

It was shown that when irradiated with neutrons, uranium hexafluoride decomposed to intermediate uranium fluorides (presumably UF5 and fluorine).The rateof decomposition was∼G = 0.5 mole/l00 ev or 0.21mole/hr per kw of power liberated in the gas. It was also shown that in addition to dissociation of UF6 during irradiation there was also recombination of the decomposition products. As a result, equilibrium concentrations of fluorine and UF6 are set up, and these depend on the strength of the radiation. When mixed with fluorine, uranium hexafluoride is a radiation-stable compound even at room temperature and may be used as a fuel in a nuclear reactor.

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Literature cited

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Authors
  1. V. A. Dmitrievskii
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  2. A. I. Migachev
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Additional information

In conclusion, the authors consider it their pleasant duty to thank I. K. Kikoin for his interest and valuable advice.

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Dmitrievskii, V.A., Migachev, A.I. Dissociation of the UF6 molecule under the action of fragments from fission of the uranium nucleus. The Soviet Journal of Atomic Energy 6, 385–390 (1960). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01491374

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01491374

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