Credit: Julie E. Niklas et al.
Researchers have developed a novel method to increase the oxidation potential of radioactive elements. The research will provide a methodology for future analysis of the chemical reactivities and redox properties of the radioactive elements.
Many radioactive elements such as neptunium and plutonium have proven difficult to oxidize in the past. In the research, published in Inorganic Chemistry and Angewandte Chemie, the researchers designed donor ligands to stabilize the radioactive elements as they become electron-poor. This stabilization leads to an increase in oxidation potential, providing a means to study unusual complexes of elements such as cerium, uranium, and neptunium.
Historically, characterization of the actinides has been difficult due to the increase of the barrier to oxidation increasing significantly after uranium. The research conducted will allow for more accurate crystallographic data and a more thorough spectroscopic analysis of the structure of these complexes.
Through additional electrochemical studies, the researchers have shown that the ligand developed makes the oxidation potential of species such as cerium, uranium, and neptunium significantly more accessible. Ultimately establishing a methodology for studying and characterizing novel high oxidation state actinide complexes.
The methods presented in these studies will allow for the development of safer nuclear waste disposal facilities by increasing the understanding of how these materials behave when stored.