Electroreduction of U(VI) in nitric acid solution: Efficiency optimization and the impact of impurities
摘要
To effective reduce U(VI) to U(IV) in HNO3 solution, constant-potential electrolysis was conducted in different conditions to optimize the electrolysis conditions. The results show that U(VI) reduction efficiency was highest at − 300 mV in 3–6 M HNO3 solution. Ru(III), Zr(IV), and Fe(III) all reduced U(VI) reduction efficiency, particularly Fe(III). Adding hydrazine to solution containing U(VI) and Fe(III) suppressed HNO2 accumulation and enhanced U(VI) electroreduction. The electroreduction of U(VI) in the presence of multiple impurity ions and different HNO3 concentrations was also conducted, indicating that 6 M HNO3 is optimal for U(VI) reduction.