Chemistry
Dr. Manning described some of the work in chemistry, indicating that
a reasonable fraction was basic research.
He mentioned research on heavy
element chemistry (being pursued with increased emphasis), tritium, and
He-3 at low temperatures.
As more programmatic studies, he cited experi-
ments to be done with the MTR on successive neutron reactions on plutoniun,
of intercst because of the possibility that curlum-244 might be suitable
for initiators.
He also described the long range fission detection
program, based on measuring 9.4 year fission product Kr85 in the atmos—
phere,
From the latter measurements it is estimated that integrated
external production of plutoniun does not exceed O,2 of the U.S, amount.
He stressed the desirability that Hanford contain its Kr effluent, and .
Commissioner Pike ssid that this is being started.
Dr. Manning went on to say that chemical research on raw materials
Materials
.
Research problems is being started; they expect to concentrate on treatment of
Florida phosphates,
He mentioned difficulties in getting needed informa-
tion but felt the situation was improving, except for industrial process
information.
Dr. MeDaniel said hold-back on the latter would probably
continue ; Commissioner Pike felt that such inform:tion would be of only
limited value anyway.
Dr. McDaniel gaid that the Division of Research -
expects to be able to supply funds in support of raw materials research.
Dr, Lawroski mentioned the work on volatility separations using |
BrF3 and similar compounds as fluorinating agents, and cited several
advantages of the method,
He felt it could probably not be usedwith the
Savannah River reactors, partly because of further development required,
and partly because of the Bri3 resistance of the Al can; Dr. Libby
is aimed at pilot plant design... .... men
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Present work on this process
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suggested the cans ‘be opened mechanically.