Nuclear Lifecycle 2

Which of these is NOT a method of SORTING uranium ore?

• Radiometric sorting

• Photometric sorting

• Magnetic sorting

• Flotation

• Roasting

Match the description to the correct process.

Groups:

(a) Ion exchange

,

(b) Solvent extraction

• A complexing agent in an organic phase is used to selectively extract the uranyl ions

• Cannot be used if chloride concentrations are above 6g/L

• Generates organic waste which is difficult to dispose of

• A resin is used to selectively adsorb the uranyl ions

• Must be used if chloride concentrations are above 6g/L

• Cheaper

In both IX and SX what is used to neutralise the solution after the process?

• Water only
• Gaseous ammonia

• Salt solution
• Sulphuric acid

Which milling technique involves removal of uranium mineral coating from sand?

• Ablation

• Crushing
• Centrifugation
• Flotation

Put these milling steps in order.

• Ore is gathered and screened.

• Ore is crushed and mixed with H2SO4.

• The U is stripped, precipitated and dried.

• IX or SX

• Tailings are left to settle out. and the solution is filtered.

What is the common name for U3O8?

• Greencake

• Yellowcake

• Bluecake

• Redcake

Which of these is an example of an indirect cost?

• Changing interest rates on loans

• Labour

• Construction costs

• Decommissioning

Which of these methods can be used to remove impurities in U?

• Flotation

• Roasting

• Solvent extraction

• Ion exchange

How are ISL mines decommissioned?

• Wells are capped

• Groundwater is treated/left to return to its original condition

• Water from the tailings dam is evaporated

• Chemicals are recycled

Why is UO2 oxidised to UO3 for IX or SX?

• UO2 is not soluble in acid

• UO2 is too radioactive

• UO3 is an alkali

• UO2 is more electronegative