SADOWAY TARGET METAL
Consider uranium
Uranium 92
U
Many contemporary uses of uranium exploit its unique nuclear properties. However, because of the low abundance of uranium-235 in natural uranium (which is overwhelmingly uranium-238), uranium needs to undergo enrichment so that enough uranium-235 is present for use in nuclear power. The Sadoway Laboratory is not engaged in work involving uranium enrichment. Environment, Health, and Safety professionals oversee the work performed at Sadoway Incorporated to ensure the company protects workers, the community, and the natural environment.
PROOF OF CONCEPT
Uranium experiments carried out at Sadoway Labs
Based on work directed by Prof. Sadoway at Sadoway Labs Foundation, presented below is evidence of conversion of uranium oxide into liquid uranium by high-temperature electrolysis.
Consider a process in which uranium oxide (U3O8) which is found in uranim ores is dissolved in a solvent composed of a solution of metal oxides into which are immersed two electrodes. By the action of electric current uranium oxidies decomposed into liquid uranium which pools on the bottom of the cell and into oxygen which is vented through the top of the cell. No carbo chlorination, no acid dissolution, no CO2, no dioxins.
Experimental conditions
Melt- U3O8 - CaF2 – mixture of lanthanates
Cathode – graphite crucible
Anode- suspended PGM (possibly platinum or iridium rod
Electrolysis carried out at 1225℃.
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
In one step we move from dirt to liquid metal of requisite purity, and at or below the market price point. One-pot smelting. Processing compression.