An electrochemical oxidation process of Am (III) into Am (VI) used to separate the americium of spent fuels reprocessing solutions

The aim of this invention is to oxidize by an electrochemical process Am (III) to Am (VI). This process can be used to separate the americium of spent fuels reprocessing solutions. The method consists to add to the aqueous nitric solution containing Am (III) an heteropolyanion able to complex the americium (as for instance the potassium tungstophosphate) and the Ag (II) ion. The Ag (II) ion oxidizes the Am (III) and is reduced into an Ag (I) ion. It is then regenerated by the electrolysis of the solution. After the oxidation of Am (III) into Am (VI), this last ion can be extracted by an adapted organic solvent. With this electrochemical method a yield of 100% Am (VI) is obtained in half a hour. (O.M.). 5 refs., 5 figs., 2 tabs