Non-Aqueous Processing

Abstract

Next generation nuclear reactors may require alternative processing flowsheets, and one area of particular interest is around non-aqueous process flowsheets. These flowsheets utilize high temperatures and molten salt systems to solubilize the spent fuel and the fission products. Separations are then achieved primarily through electrochemical processes. These processes can either be off-line, such as pyro processing, where the spent fuel charge is processed after removal from the reactor, or potentially in-line in a molten salt reactor configuration. There are a large number of process options that can be explored using these non-aqueous processing options. A brief summary of both chloride and fluoride salt processing approaches is provided as background for how these process flowsheets could be developed