Nuclear Lifecycle 9

What are the benefits of reprocessing?

• To prevent exhaustion of U

• To reduce radiotoxicity of waste

• To reduce quantity of waste

• To produce extra energy from transuranics

Which is the only commercially used reprocessing method currently?

• PUREX

• TALSPEAK

• TRUEX

• DIAMEX

Why has the USA developed the UREX process instead of using PUREX?

• It is cheaper

• Pu is not isolated so less risk of proliferation

• It does not use as much strong acid

• It gives better separation

Stage 2 reprocessing involves separating the minor actinides and lanthanides from stage 1 raffinate. Which of the following are stage 2 processes?

• NPEX

• TALSPEAK

• TRUEX

• DIAMEX

Stage 3 reprocessing involves separating minor actinides and lanthanides from each other. Which of the following are stage 3 processes?

• TALSPEAK

• SANEX

• COEX

• TRUEX

Why do lanthanides (Ln) and minor actinides (MA) need to be separated from each other?

• Ln are neutron poisons so prevent transmutation of MA

• Ln react with MA

• Ln have extremely long half lives

• MA are neutron poisons so prevent transmutation of Ln

Which separation method aims to carry out all 3 stages in one process?

• LUCA

• GANEX

• TRPO

• NPEX

How is the success of solvent extraction reprocessing measured?

• Separation Factor

• Distribution Ratio

• Weight % of target element

• Dose Rate

What are the main disadvantages of reprocessing by solvent extraction?

• The use of P reagents - difficult to dispose of

• High acid concentrations

• Poor separation of elements

• Organic phases can't be reused

What is the main alternative to reprocessing by solvent extraction?

• Pyroprocessing

• Electroprocessing

• Magnetoprocessing

• Hydroprocessing