High-temperature chemistry

In this teaching unit, a general approach to chemistry in non-aqueous solvents at high temperatures will be developed through concepts of chemical reactivity and the physicochemical and thermochemical properties of oxides, salts, and molten metals. Several case studies will be discussed, particularly in relation to the fuel cycle and recycling chemistry.

Hourly volumes:

            CM: 12 p.m.

            Tutorial: 8 hours

The objective of this teaching unit is to present the properties of non-aqueous solvents at high temperatures (molten salts excluding oxides, liquid metals) and physicochemical phenomena (solvation, non-protonic acidity, oxidation-reduction) in order to aid understanding of the processes involved in glass production and material purification by pyrometallurgical means.

Basic elements of radioactivity

Chemistry of solutions applied to actinides

Terminal control

Description of characterization methods and analytical tools for reactions carried out at high temperatures.

• General properties of oxides, salts, or molten metals
• Thermochemical properties: Cp,_ΔHf, S
• Concept of non-protonic acidity (oxo-acidity, halogen-acidity) - Experimental methods
• Melting control: synthesis protocol, high-temperature redox reactions - Examples of industrial processes.
• Chemical activity in molten salts and liquid metals—Experimental methods
• Chemical reactivity of precursors at high temperatures and structural models of glasses
• Phase partition coefficients
• Electrical and thermal conductivity, diffusion phenomena
• Structures and dynamics of molten oxides, rheological behavior (experimental methods)
• Thermal stability of cast irons: germination, growth, demixing, devitrification
• Case studies:

- Oxide castings

- Production and purification of highly reactive metals (Al, Li, Zr, etc.) and/or radioactive metals (U, Pu).

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

Master's degree in Chemistry @ umontpellier.fr