Abstract and subjects
This chapter discusses in context the separations processes of actinides that involve primarily solvent extraction. A brief overview of separations processes utilized in the early of transuranic separations is provided with an eye toward understanding the lessons learned from these processes. This framework will set a dialogue for currently considered transuranic separations processes and how they depend upon a complex suite of chemistries ligand covalency and interfacial science. Using differences in coordination thermodynamics has been a staple in completing elemental separations of the actinides. When designing selective ligands for separation, it is important to realize the difference between coordination numbers (CNs) for various oxidation states. The chapter also deals with simple coordination in dilute water systems (hydration), followed by cation‐cation interactions in concentrated solution, and then discusses the effects of counter ions and mixed solvents.