Chemistry: physical processes – Physical processes
Patent
1973-08-14
1982-06-15
Kyle, Deborah L.
Chemistry: physical processes
Physical processes
2041571R, 2041571H, 423 3, 423258, B01D 5900
Patent
active
043348831
ABSTRACT:
A process for separating isotopes by selective excitation of isotopic species of a volatile compound by tuned laser light. A highly cooled gas of the volatile compound is produced in which the isotopic shift is sharpened and defined. Before substantial condensation occurs, the cooled gas is irradiated with laser light precisely tuned to a desired wavelength to selectively excite a particular isotopic species in the cooled gas. The laser light may impart sufficient energy to the excited species to cause it to undergo photochemical reaction or even to photoionize. Alternatively, a two-photon irradiation may be applied to the cooled gas to induce photochemical reaction or photoionization. The process is particularly applicable to the separation of isotopes of uranium and plutonium.
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Boyer Keith
Cotter Theodore P.
Greiner Norman R.
Jensen Reed J.
Robinson C. Paul
Besha Richard G.
Denny James E.
Kyle Deborah L.
The United States of America as represented by the United States
Walterscheid Edward C.
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