Uranium aerodynamic process

UPfi is the only compound of uraruum volatile at room temperature. It is used as working fluid in the gaseous diffusion, gas centrifuge, and aerodynamic processes for uranium enrichment discussed in Chap. 14. Its principal physical and chemical properties are summarized in Sec. 4.7. 

Mailing, G. F., and E. Von Halle Aerodynamic Isotope Separation Processes for Uranium Enrichment, U.S. ERDA Report K/OA-2872, Oct. 7, 1976. 

In another smdy, samples of depleted uranium oxide manufactured through different processes were characterized (Hastings et al. 2008). Three types of uranium oxides were prepared from uranyl nitrate hexahydrate (U02(N03)2-6H20) at different temperatures UO2 at 500°C-700°C, UjOg at 800°C-1100°C, and UO3 at 350°C-450°C. Optical spectroscopy and particle fractionation were used to characterize the oxides. The color of the oxides, their density, and granular appearance (aerodynamic diameter and size distribution) were somewhat affected by the preparation conditions. The gamma spectrum of the samples was also recorded. The conclusion was that variations in the processing conditions of the uranium oxides were reflected in the density and particle size distribution and these characteristics could be used for nuclear forensics. 

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