This research report outlines the current status and progress associated with the electrochemical separation of Curium and Americium.
Results
• We have completed the electrochemical investigation in of the Ce3+/Ce4+ redox couple and have determined the optimum experimental conditions.
• Computer modeling of the cerium using the JChess speciation-modeling program has been completed for the Ce redox couple. Traditional complexing ligands such as EDTA, oxalate, NTA, phosphate, acetate, and sulfate have been purchased and will be used to initiate the complexation and electrochemical characterization.
• Electrochemical investigations have continued on the Eu2+/Eu3+ redox system in HClO4 supporting electrolyte at a glassy carbon working electrode. The redox couple has been electrochemically resolved using cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry. The data suggests that the couple is stable with reversible oxidation/reduction occurring.
• Complex formation has been initiated and theoretical calculations regarding the stability of species has been used to target the solution conditions required to view the oxidation/reduction processes
