Recovery of transplutonium elements from high-level radioactive wastes with diphenyl(dibutylcarbamoylmethyl)phosphine oxide

The separate stages of the total process for extraction recovery of transpl utonium elements (TPEs) from high-level wastes of radiochemical plants (HI, Ws) are considered. The criteria used in selection of diphenyl(dibutylcarba moylmethyl)phosphine oxide (Ph2Bu2) as an extractant from a series of (carb amoylmethyl)phosphine oxides are analyzed. Distribution of TPEs and concomi tant metals between the model HLW solution and Ph2Bu2 solution in m-nitrobe nzotrifluoride (Fluoropol) was examined. The technique for separation of TP Es from concomitant metals and simultaneous reextraction of TPEs and REEs w as developed. Based on experimental results, the process scheme for TPE rec overy from nonevaporated raffinate of processing VVER fuel was developed. T he liquid chromatography with a free stationary phase was used for the grou p separation of TPEs and REEs in the weakly acidic reextract.