PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF CERTAIN NP(VII) COMPOUNDS

The effect of ultrasound on the kinetics and yield of the oxidation of Np(V) hydroxide by ozone as a function of [MOH], where M = Li, Na, K, Rb, and Cs, is studied. Application of an acoustic field has practica lly no effect on the course of the process in 1-3 M LiOH, NaOH, and KO H. In RbOH and CsOH solutions under otherwise equal conditions, a mixt ure of solid Np(VII) compounds identified as MNpO4, where M = Rb and C s, is formed in a yield near 90%. The x-ray powder pattern is recorded and the unit-cell constants are determined for RbNpO4. The data for M NpO4, where M = K, Rb, and Cs, are given in order to compare the unit- cell constants for related Np(VII) compounds. Concentrated stable solu tions of Np(VII) result from oxidation of Np(V) by ozone in an ultraso und field in RbOH and CsOH with concentrations > 3 M. Slow evaporation produces well-formed dark green platelike single crystals of M3NPO4(O H)2.xH2O, where M = Rb and Cs. The IR spectra of these are recorded.