Electrochemical study of the influence of pH and carbonate species concentration on the dissolution of depleted UO2

Research outputpeer-review

Abstract

In Belgium, the current reference concept for the final disposal of spent nuclear fuel is the so-called supercontainer design, in which spent nuclear fuel is placed in a watertight carbon steel container which will be surrounded by a concrete buffer. In this context, this work compares the electrochemical analysis of depleted UO2 in alkaline and anaerobic conditions with and without carbonate species. In presence of carbonates, the open circuit potential is lower and can reach a potential where the oxidative dissolution is no more present. At pH 9.5 without carbonate species, 1/Rp is the lowest, while it increases with the increase of the carbonate concentration. However, whatever the system studied the uranium concentration in solution remains below the solubility level of UIV. Finally, cyclic voltammetry shows a similar behaviour for all test conditions. Graphical abstract: (Figure presented.)

Original languageEnglish
JournalMRS Advances
DOIs
StatePublished - 2024

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Materials Science
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Mechanical Engineering

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