The Important Role of Separations in Nuclear Science and Technology--Needs and Future Outlook
James D. Navratil, Environmental Engineering and Science, Clemson University, 342 Computer Court, Anderson, South Carolina 29625-6510 USA

 

Separation science and technology plays an important role in most aspects of nuclear engineering and science.  Physical and chemical separation methods are used in analytical chemistry, environmental studies, medical isotope production, the nuclear fuel cycle, radioactive cleanup operations, etc.  There is a need for improved separation methods and materials in all aspects of nuclear science and technology.  This paper will summarize these needs and provide an outlook to the future.  Chemical separations in nuclear analytical separations will be highlighted with examples from recent work on improving actinide separation methods for nuclear safeguard analysis of environmental samples.