Problems in plutonium chemistry: Generalized proportional equations and polymer formation

Summary

This paper illustrates a generalized form of the method of proportional equations. It permits equilibrium calculations for Pu disproportionation reactions at any oxidation number and any pH by means of combining arbitrary proportions of tri- and hexavalent plutonium. Two methods for estimating the work of Pu polymer formation are illustrated. One method uses the work of disproportionation of tetravalent plutonium. The other method suggests the transition between hydrous Pu(IV) oxide and polymer is accompanied by a small change in free energy.