Informatics Publishing Limited

A. G. Kumbhar ¹, Y. K. Bhardwaj ², D. B. Naik ³

Affiliations
1 Water and Steam Chemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai 400 085, IN
2 Radiation TeBhabha Atomic Research Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai 400 085, IN
3 Radiation and Photochemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai 400 085, IN

Abstract

Aqueous suspension of nano zirconia with methanol was irradiated with gamma (γ ) rays. Hydrogen (H₂) generated in this process was studied as a function of pH and γ-dose. In the presence of 1 M methanol and at pH 3.0, low gamma dose irradiation showed optimum H₂ generation. This is explained on the basis zeta potential and surface charge on zirconia particles. Positive surface charge at low pH could be the reason for enhanced H₂ generation. Maximum H₂ yield G(H₂) of 3.7 was observed. This is 400 times more compared to nano pure water. The method can be utilized for building a medium-scale H₂ generation plant.

Keywords

Gamma Radiolysis, Hydrogen Generation, Nano Zirconia, Water Splitting.

Full Text

   

S. J. Keny ¹, A. G. Kumbhar ¹, A. Sanjukta ², S. Pandey ², S. Ramanathan ³, G. Venkateswaran ²

Affiliations
1 Water and Steam Chemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400 085, IN
2 Analytical Chemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400 085, IN
3 Material Science Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400 085, IN

Abstract

In nuclear power plants corrosion and activation of structural material and its re-deposition on out-ofcore surfaces is of significance as far as structural integrity and radiation exposure to the employees are concerned. Recently, Indian Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors have faced a typical problem of activation of antimony (Sb) from primary heat transport pump seals containing ∼10% Sb. This Sb cannot be removed easily and its deposition mechanism is yet to be clearly understood. This article deals with studies related to the understanding of this process and a solution for the removal of Sb.

Keywords

Antimony, Absorption and Removal, Carbon Steel, Magnetite, Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors.

Full Text