Use of Redox Reagents for Stabilization of Pu and Np Valence Forms in Aqueous Reprocessing of Spent Nuclear Fuel: Chemical and Technological Aspects

Published data on properties of reagents used in aqueous reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel for controlling the Pu and Np valence are summarized. The chemical principles of the reactions of U(IV), NH2OH, HNO2 (nitrogen oxides), and H2O2 with Pu and Np ions in nitric acid solutions and specific features of the behavior of these elements in the course of fuel reprocessing are considered. The properties of new promising organic redox reagents for stabilization of Pu and Np valence forms in the PUREX process are briefly described.