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 O2- demonstrated the existence of soluble AmO+ species as well as the precipitation of AmOCl and Am2O3 solid compounds. The corresponding solubility products of AmOCl and Am2O3 have been determined. Calculated Am(II) disproportionation equilibrium constant indicates that the stability of Am(II) chlorocomplex increases with the increase of temperature.