Chemistry at the Indicator Level - Radiochemistry

This course covers various aspects of radiochemistry and chemistry at the tracer level. After describing the chemical properties of radioelements and discussing the scaling factors associated with the use of radioelements/radionuclides at the tracer level, the concepts of microcomponents and macrocomponents will be addressed, along with the kinetic and thermodynamic effects on reaction kinetics. Next, the various commonly used radiochemical methods will be introduced: extraction and purification methods, the use of radioactive stocks, methods such as electrodeposition, co-crystallization, or entrainment precipitation, as well as isotopic labeling and dilution.

Hourly volumes*:

            CM: 12:00 p.m.

            TD: 8:00 a.m.

The objective of this course unit is, first, to describe the chemical properties of radioelements and then to address the scaling factors associated with the use of radioelements/radionuclides at the indicator level (the concepts of microcomponents and macrocomponents, and the kinetics and thermodynamics of reactions). The second part will focus on mastering the various methods used in radiochemistry (extraction, purification, electrodeposition, co-precipitation, entrainment precipitation, isotopic labeling, and isotopic dilution).

Basics of Radioactivity

Solution Chemistry Applied to Actinides

Comprehensive Continuous Monitoring

• Chemical Properties of Radioelements:
• The Case of Natural Radioactive Elements and Their Impact on Natural Occurrence
• Chemical Properties of Technetium and Promethium
• Chemical Properties of Transuranic Elements
• Radiochemistry and chemistry at the indicator scale:
• Definition of Scales
• The concepts of microcomponents and macrocomponents. Implications for the development of chemical reactions
• Reaction Kinetics at the Indicator Level
• Reaction Thermodynamics: Validity of the Mass Action Law and Equilibrium
• Isotope-exchange reactions
• Radiochemical methods:
• Production of radionuclides with or without a carrier
• Radioactive Cows
• Purification: co-crystallization and entrainment precipitation methods
• Isotopic labeling and dilution
• Electroplating

Instruction will take the form of lectures and tutorials focused on case studies from various fields of application in radiochemistry, geochemistry, and metrology under environmental conditions. It may also be supplemented by bibliographic tutorials.

Administrative contact(s): Chemistry Master's Program Office

Master's in Chemistry @ umontpellier.fr