Chemistry at the scale of indicators - Radiochemistry

This teaching unit covers various aspects related to radiochemistry and chemistry at the indicator level. After describing the chemical properties of radioelements and discussing the scale factors related to the use of radioelements/radionuclides at the indicator scale, the concepts of microcomponents and macrocomponents will be addressed, as well as the kinetic and thermodynamic consequences on the development of reactions. Next, the various commonly used radiochemical methods will be introduced: extraction and purification methods, use of radioactive cows, electrodeposition, syncrystallization, or entrainment precipitation methods, isotopic labeling and dilution.

Hourly volumes:

            CM: 12 p.m.

            Tutorial: 8 hours

The objective of this teaching unit is, first, to describe the chemical properties of radioelements and then to address the scale factors related to the use of radioelements/radionuclides at the indicator level (concept of microcomponents and macrocomponents, kinetics and thermodynamics of reactions). The second step will be to master the various methods used in radiochemistry (extraction, purification, electrodeposition, co-crystallization, precipitation by entrainment, isotopic labeling and dilution).

Basic elements of radioactivity

Chemistry of solutions applied to actinides

Continuous assessment

• Chemical properties of radioelements:
• Case of natural radioelements and consequences on natural occurrence
• Chemical properties of technetium and promethium
• Chemical properties of transuranic elements
• Radiochemistry and chemistry at the scale of indicators:
• Definition of scales
• Concept of microcomponents and macrocomponents. Consequences for the development of chemical reactions.
• Reaction kinetics at the indicator level
• Reaction thermodynamics: validity of mass action and equilibrium
• Isotopic exchange reactions
• Radiochemical methods:
• Production of radionuclides with or without a carrier
• Radioactive cows
• Purification: methods of co-crystallization and precipitation by entrainment
• Isotopic labeling and dilution
• Electrodepositing

Teaching will take the form of lectures and tutorials applied to cases relating to various fields of application of radiochemistry, geochemistry, or metrology in environmental conditions. It may also be supplemented by bibliographic tutorials.

Administrative contact(s): Master's in Chemistry Secretariat

Master's degree in Chemistry @ umontpellier.fr