DEVELOPMENT OF AN ELECTROLYTIC CELL FOR REMOVAL OF NICKEL FROM HRT FUEL SOLUTIONS

摘要

An HRT prototype electrolytic cell with a mercury cathode and a platinum anode was tested for nickel and manganese removal from simulated HRT fuel solution. Approximately 90% nickel removal and 80% manganese removal was accomplished in 290 amp-hr per liter. The manganese removal required replace¬ment of the liquid mercury cathode after one half of the nickel was removed. In the course of this electrolysis, essentially all of the copper was removed and 6o% of the uranium was reduced to the four valence state. Further work will be required to improve the radiation stability of the insulators and to reduce the corrosion of the cell.