Abstract
This short comment highlights the importance of volatile ruthenium compounds in the nuclear fuel cycle and nuclear power generation. Focusing on its volatile properties, we elucidate its behavior in reprocessing and radiotherapy and explore its impact on safety and efficiency improvements. This study focuses on the partitioning behavior of ruthenium and europium in organic solvents under fire of reprocessing plants and their release behavior during organic solvent combustion, providing important data from a safety perspective. A thorough study of the chemistry of radioactive Ru was conducted, providing detailed information on its behavior and reactions. This study provides essential information for nuclear waste management and other nuclear-related fields. Concerning the behavior of Ru in nitric acid solutions during evaporation and drying, the influence of coexisting nitrates on the formation of ruthenium tetroxide (RuO4) is mentioned in detail. In addition, a staining method for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) using RuO4 is commonly used to observe the microstructure of polymeric materials. Furthermore, two crystal structures of RuO4 were discovered regardless of their volatile properties. The information collected here will contribute to the chemical knowledge of effective strategies for fire safety in power generation and waste treatment.
© 2024 Center for Fire Science and Technology, Research Institute for Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science
