Mineral and energy resources of the Roswell Resource Area, East-Central New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bartsch-Winkler, Susan B.; Donatich, Alessandro J.

1995-01-01

The sedimentary formations of the Roswell Resource Area have significant mineral and energy resources. Some of the pre-Pennsylvanian sequences in the Northwestern Shelf of the Permian Basin are oil and gas reservoirs, and Pennsylvanian rocks in Tucumcari Basin are reservoirs of oil and gas as well as source rocks for oil and gas in Triassic rocks. Pre-Permian rocks also contain minor deposits of uranium and vanadium, limestone, and gases. Hydrocarbon reservoirs in Permian rocks include associated gases such as carbon dioxide, helium, and nitrogen. Permian rocks are mineralized adjacent to the Lincoln County porphyry belt, and include deposits of copper, uranium, manganese, iron, polymetallic veins, and Mississippi-Valley-type lead-zinc. Industrial minerals in Permian rocks include fluorite, barite, potash, halite, polyhalite, gypsum, anhydrite, sulfur, limestone, dolomite, brine deposits (iodine and bromine), aggregate (sand), and dimension stone. Doubly terminated quartz crystals, called 'Pecos diamonds' and collected as mineral specimens, occur in Permian rocks along the Pecos River. Mesozoic sedimentary rocks are hosts for copper, uranium, and small quantities of gold-silver-tellurium veins, as well as significant deposits of oil and gas, carbon dioxide, asphalt, coal, and dimension stone. Mesozoic rocks contain limited amounts of limestone, gypsum, petrified wood, and clay. Tertiary rocks host ore deposits commonly associated with intrusive rocks, including platinum-group elements, iron skarns, manganese, uranium and vanadium, molybdenum, polymetallic vein deposits, gold-silver-tellurium veins, and thorium-rare-earth veins. Museum-quality quartz crystals are associated with Tertiary intrusive rocks. Industrial minerals in Tertiary rocks include fluorite, vein- and bedded-barite, caliche, limestone, and aggregate. Tertiary and Quaternary sediments host important placer deposits of gold and titanium, and occurrences of silver and uranium. Important industrial commodities include caliche, limestone and dolomite, and aggregate. Quaternary basalt contains sub-ore-grade uranium, scoria, and clay deposits.

Geologic report on the San Rafael Swell Drilling Project, San Rafael Swell, Utah

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bluhm, C.T.; Rundle, J.G.

1981-08-01

Twenty-two holes totaling 34,874 feet (10,629.6 meters) were rotary and core drilled on the northern and western flanks of the San Rafael Swell to test fluvial-lacustrine sequences of the Morrison Formation and the lower part of the Chinle Formation. The objective of the project was to obtain subsurface data so that improved uranium resource estimates could be determined for the area. Although the Brushy Basin and the Salt Wash Members of the Morrison Formation are not considered favorable in this area for the occurrence of significant uranium deposits, uranium minerals were encountered in several of the holes. Some spotty ormore » very low-grade mineralization was also encountered in the White Star Trunk area. The lower part of the Chinle Formation is considered to be favorable for potentially significant uranium deposits along the west flank of the San Rafael Swell. One hole (SR-202) east of Ferron, Utah, intersected uranium, silver, molybdenum, and copper mineralization. More exploratory drilling in the vicinity of this hole is recommended. As a result of the study of many geochemical analyses and a careful determination of the lithology shown by drilling, a sabkha environment is suggested for the concentration of uranium, zinc, iron, lead, copper, silver, and perhaps other elements in parts of the Moody Canyon Member of the Moenkopi Formation.« less

Method for producing uranium atomic beam source

DOEpatents

Krikorian, Oscar H.

1976-06-15

A method for producing a beam of neutral uranium atoms is obtained by vaporizing uranium from a compound UM.sub.x heated to produce U vapor from an M boat or from some other suitable refractory container such as a tungsten boat, where M is a metal whose vapor pressure is negligible compared to that of uranium at the vaporization temperature. The compound, for example, may be the uranium-rhenium compound, URe.sub.2. An evaporation rate in excess of about 10 times that of conventional uranium beam sources is produced.

Mineral resource potential map of the Pyramid Roadless Area, El Dorado County, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Armstrong, Augustus K.; Chaffee, Maurice A.; Scott, Douglas F.

1983-01-01

Studies show., there is low potential for small deposits of gold, silver, and base metals in the Pyramid Roadless Area. There are two uranium claims (Cliff Ridge mining claims) located within the roadless area, but samples from this site showed no uranium. There are no indications of geothermal resources, coal, oil, or gas.

Preliminary report on the Comet area, Jefferson County, Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Becraft, George Earle

1953-01-01

Several radioactivity anomalies and a few specimens of sooty pitchblende and other uranium minerals have been found on the mine dumps of formerly productive base- and precious-metal mines along the Comet-Gray Eagle shear zone in the Comet area in southwestern Montana. The shear zone is from 50 to 200 feet wide and has been traced for at least 5? miles. It trends N. 80 ? W. across the northern part of the area and cuts the quartz monzonitic rocks of the Boulder batholith and younger silicic intrusive rocks, as well as prebatholithic volcanic rocks, and is in turn cut by dacite and andesite dikes. The youngest period of mineralization is represented by chalcedonic vein zones comprising one or more discontinuous stringers and veins of cryptocrystalline silica in silicified quartz monzonite and in alaskite that has not been appreciably silicified. In some places these zones contain no distinct chalcedonic veins but are represented only by silicified quartz monzonite. These zones locally contain uranium in association with very small amounts of pyrite, galena, ruby silver, arqentite, native silver, molybdenite, chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, and barite. At the Free Enterprise mine, uranium has been produced from a narrow chalcedonic vein that contains disseminated secondary uranium minerals and local small pods of pitchblende and also from disseminated secondary uranium ,minerals in the adjacent quartz monzonite. Undiscovered deposits of uranium ore may occur spatially associated with the base- and precious-metal deposits along the Comet-Gray Eagle shear zone and with chalcedonic vein zones similar to the Free Enterprise.

Geology of the area adjacent to the Free Enterprise uranium-silver Mine, Boulder District, Jefferson County, Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Roberts, W.A.; Gude, A.J.

1952-01-01

Uranium minerals.occur in pods associated with cryptocrystalline silica, silver minerals, and scattered sulfide mineral grains in a hydrothermal vein that cuts quartz monzonite and alaskite at the Free Enterprise mine, 2 miles west of Boulder, Mont. The Free Enterprise vein is one of many silicified reef-like structures in this area, most of which trend about N. 60° E. The cryptocrystalline silica zones of the area are lenticular and are bordered by an altered zone where quartz monzonite is the wall rock. No alteration was noticed where alaskite is adjacent to silica zones. No uranium minerals were observed at the surface, but radioactivity anomalies were noted at 57 outcrops. Underground mining has shown that leaching by downward percolating waters has removed most of the uranium from the near-surface part of the Free Enterprise vein and probably has enriched slightly, parts of the vein and the adjacent wall rock from the bottom of the leached zone to the ground-water level. It is possible that other veins that show low to moderate radioactivity at the surface may contain significant concentrations of uranium minerals at relatively shallow depth. The quartz monzonite appears to be a more favorable host rock for the cryptocrystalline silica and associated uranium minerals than the alaskite. The alaskite occurs as vertical_dikes plug-like masses, and as irregularly shaped, gently dipping masses that are believed to have been intruded into open fractures formed during the cooling of the quartz monzonite.

Distribution of Pd, Ag & U in the SiC Layer of an Irradiated TRISO Fuel Particle

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thomas M. Lillo; Isabella J. van Rooyen

2014-08-01

The distribution of silver, uranium and palladium in the silicon carbide (SiC) layer of an irradiated TRISO fuel particle was studied using samples extracted from the SiC layer using focused ion beam (FIB) techniques. Transmission electron microscopy in conjunction with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy was used to identify the presence of the specific elements of interest at grain boundaries, triple junctions and precipitates in the interior of SiC grains. Details on sample fabrication, errors associated with measurements of elemental migration distances and the distances migrated by silver, palladium and uranium in the SiC layer of an irradiated TRISO particle frommore » the AGR-1 program are reported.« less

New complexes of silver (I) with N-hydroxy-succinimide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sibiescu, Doina; Mîţǎ, Carmen; Vizitiu, Mihaela; Crudu, Andra Manuela

2016-12-01

Over the last period of time silver was considerably studied due to its lower resistivity. In the field of materials science, silver was used in applications such as: microelectronics components of high - temperature superconductiviting materials, bactericidal coatings and others domains. This study presents the process of obtaining and characterization the new complexes of silver (I) with Nhydroxy- succinimide. In the process of obtaining the new complex compounds in aqous solution, first we have to look at conductometry and UV-Vis absorbtion spectroscopy in order to determine the molar ratio silver : N-hydroxysuccinimide and the stability constants. The obtained solid coordination compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy and also was investigated of their thermostability. The X-ray powder diffraction reflects that the complexes compounds of silver (I) with N-hydroxysuccinimide are amorphous. In our further studies we want to determine if the new synthetized compounds will present the same or improuved properties as in the above mentioned silver characteristics.

PRODUCTION OF PURIFIED URANIUM

DOEpatents

Burris, L. Jr.; Knighton, J.B.; Feder, H.M.

1960-01-26

A pyrometallurgical method for processing nuclear reactor fuel elements containing uranium and fission products and for reducing uranium compound; to metallic uranium is reported. If the material proccssed is essentially metallic uranium, it is dissolved in zinc, the sulution is cooled to crystallize UZn/sub 9/ , and the UZn/sub 9/ is distilled to obtain uranium free of fission products. If the material processed is a uranium compound, the sollvent is an alloy of zinc and magnesium and the remaining steps are the same.

URANIUM LEACHING AND RECOVERY PROCESS

DOEpatents

McClaine, L.A.

1959-08-18

A process is described for recovering uranium from carbonate leach solutions by precipitating uranium as a mixed oxidation state compound. Uranium is recovered by adding a quadrivalent uranium carbon;te solution to the carbonate solution, adjusting the pH to 13 or greater, and precipitating the uranium as a filterable mixed oxidation state compound. In the event vanadium occurs with the uranium, the vanadium is unaffected by the uranium precipitation step and remains in the carbonate solution. The uranium-free solution is electrolyzed in the cathode compartment of a mercury cathode diaphragm cell to reduce and precipitate the vanadium.

Thermogravimetric Control of Intermediate Products in the Metallurgy of Uranium; CONTROL TERMOGRAVIMETRICO DE PRODUCTOS INTERMEDIOS DE LA METALURGIA DEL URANIO

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sanchez, L.G.; Cellini, R.F.

1959-01-01

The thermal decomposition of some intermediate compounds in the metallurgy of uranium such as uranium peroxide, ammonium uranate, ammonium uranium pentafluoride, uranium tetrafluoride, and UO/sub 2/, were studied using Chevenard's thermobalance. Some data on the pyrolysis of synthetic mixtures of intermediate compounds which may appear during the industrial processing are given. Thermogravimetric methods of control are suggested for use in uranium metallurgy. (tr-auth)

Antibacterial Effect of Silver Diamine Fluoride on Cariogenic Organisms.

PubMed

Lou, Yali; Darvell, Brain W; Botelho, Michael G

2018-05-01

To screen the possible antimicrobial activity of a range of clinically used, silver-based compounds on cariogenic organisms: silver diamine fluoride (SDF), silver fluoride, and silver nitrate. Preliminary screening disk-diffusion susceptibility tests were conducted on Mueller-Hinton agar plates inoculated with Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Actinomyces naeslundii, organisms known to be cariogenic. In order to identify which component of the silver compounds was responsible for any antibacterial (AB) effect, and to provide controls, the following were also investigated at high and low concentrations: sodium fluoride, ammonium fluoride, ammonium chloride, sodium fluoride, sodium chloride, and sodium nitrate, as well as deionized water as control. A volume of 10 pL of a test solution was dispensed onto a paper disk resting on the inoculated agar surface, and the plate incubated anaerobically at 37°C for 48 hours. The zones of inhibition were then measured. Silver diamine fluoride, silver fluoride, silver nitrate, and ammonium fluoride had significant AB effect (p < 0.05) on all three test organisms, although ammonium fluoride had no effect at low concentration; the remaining other compounds had no effect. Silver ions appear to be the principal AB agent at both high and low concentration; fluoride ions only have an AB effect at high concentration, while ammonium, nitrate, chloride and sodium ions have none. The anticaries effect of topical silver solutions appears restricted to that of the silver ions. Silver compounds, such as SDF, silver fluoride, and silver nitrate have AB effect against cariogenic organisms and these may have clinical impact in arresting or preventing dental decay. Sodium fluoride did not have AB effect under the conditions tested.

Preliminary report on the Comet area, Jefferson County, Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Becraft, George Earle

1952-01-01

Several radioactivity anomalies and a few specimens of sooty pitchblende and other uranium minerals have been found on the mine dumps of formerly productive base-and precious-metal mines along the Comet-Gray Eagle shear zone in the Comet area in southwestern Montana. The shear zone is from 50 to 200 feet wide and has been traced for at least 5 1/2 miles. It trends N. 80° W. across the northern part of the area and cuts the quartz monzonitic rocks of the Boulder batholith and younger silicic intrusive rocks, as well as the pre-batholitic volcanic rocks, and is in turn cut by dacite and andesite dikes. The youngest period of mineralization is represented by chalcedonic vein zones comprising one or more discontinuous stringers and veins of cryptocrystalline silica in silicified quartz monzonite and in alaskite that has not been appreciably silicified. In some places these zones contain no distinct chalcedonic veins, but are represented only by silicified quartz monzonite. These zones locally contain uranium in association with very small amounts of the following minerals: pyrite, galena, ruby silver, argentite, native silver, molybdenite, chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, and barite. At the Free Enterprise mine, uranium has been produced from a narrow chalcedonic vein that contains disseminated secondary uranium minerals and local small pods of pitchblende and from disseminated secondary uranium minerals in the adjacent quartz monzonite. Undiscovered commercial deposits of uranium ore may occur spatially associated with the base-and precious-metal deposits along the Comet-Gray Eagle shear zone, and chalcedonic vein zones similar to the Free Enterprise.

Identifying anthropogenic uranium compounds using soft X-ray near-edge absorption spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ward, Jesse D.; Bowden, Mark; Tom Resch, C.

2017-01-01

Uranium ores mined for industrial use are typically acid-leached to produce yellowcake and then converted into uranium halides for enrichment and purification. These anthropogenic chemical forms of uranium are distinct from their mineral counterparts. The purpose of this study is to use soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy to characterize several common anthropogenic uranium compounds important to the nuclear fuel cycle. Non-destructive chemical analyses of these compounds is important for process and environmental monitoring and X-ray absorption techniques have several advantages in this regard, including element-specificity, chemical sensitivity, and high spectral resolution. Oxygen K-edge spectra were collected for uranyl nitrate, uranyl fluoride,more » and uranyl chloride, and fluorine K-edge spectra were collected for uranyl fluoride and uranium tetrafluoride. Interpretation of the data is aided by comparisons to calculated spectra. These compounds have unique spectral signatures that can be used to identify unknown samples.« less

Determination of uranium in clinical and environmental samples by FIAS-ICPMS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Karpas, Z.; Lorber, A.; Halicz, L.

Uranium may enter the human body through ingestion or inhalation. Ingestion of uranium compounds through the diet, mainly drinking water, is a common occurrence, as these compounds are present in the biosphere. Inhalation of uranium-containing particles is mainly an occupational safety problem, but may also take place in areas where uranium compounds are abundant. The uranium concentration in urine samples may serve as an indication of the total uranium body content. A method based on flow injection and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (FIAS-ICPMS) was found to be most suitable for determination of uranium in clinical samples (urine and serum),more » environmental samples (seawater, wells and carbonate rocks) and in liquids consumed by humans (drinking water and commercial beverages). Some examples of the application of the FIAS-ICPMS method are reviewed and presented here.« less

WEST NEEDLE WILDERNESS STUDY AREA, COLORADO.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Van Loenen, Richard E.; Scott, David C.

1984-01-01

The West Needle Wilderness Study Area, southwestern Colorado, was evaluated for mineral-resource potential. An area extending westward into the wilderness near the Elk Park mine, has a probable mineral-resource potential for uranium. Uranium resources, and associated silver, nickel, cobalt, and copper, are located at the Elk Park mine, directly adjacent to the eastern study area boundary. No potential for other mineral or energy resources was identified in this study.

Mechanism of Prophylaxis by Silver Compounds against Infection of Burns

PubMed Central

Ricketts, C. R.; Lowbury, E. J. L.; Lawrence, J. C.; Hall, M.; Wilkins, M. D.

1970-01-01

To clarify tthe mechanism by which local application of silver compounds protects burns against infection, an ion-specific electrode was used to measùre the concentration of silver ions in solutions. By this method it was shown that in burn dressings silver ions were reduced to a very low level by precipitation as silver chloride. The antibacterial effect was found to depend on the availability of silver ions from solution in contact with precipitate. Between 10-5 and 10-6 molar silver nitrate solution in water was rapidly bactericidal. The minimal amount of silver nitrate causing inhibition of respiration of skin in tissue culture was about 25 times the minimal concentration of silver nitrate that inhibited growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. PMID:4986877

Defense Technical Information Center Thesaurus

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-10-01

acquisition radar 4 + Indicates existence of further generic levels of the term DTIC Thesaurus Actuators Acridines Actinide series (cont.) Activated sintering...BT Heterocyclic compounds+ Uranium+ BT Sintering Acrilan Actinide series compounds Activated sludge process use Acrylonitrile polymers RT Actinide...Waste treatment+ Protactinium compounds Acronyms Thorium compounds+ Activation use Abbreviations Transuranium compounds+ UF Energizing Uranium compounds

Organochlorine compounds and trace elements in fish tissue and ancillary data for the Connecticut, Housatonic, and Thames river basins study unit, 1992-94

USGS Publications Warehouse

Coles, J.F.

1996-01-01

Concentrations of organochlorine compounds and trace elements were assayed in fish tissue collected from the Connecticut, Housatonic, and Thames River Basins Study Unit, 1992-94. These data were collected to determine the occurrence and distribution of organochlorine compounds and trace elements in the study unit. Ancillary data included are land-use categories by percentage of the sampling-site basins and the size, gender, and age of the individual fish collected for this study. Concentrations of 28 organochlorine compounds in composited whole fish samples were measured at 32 sites, and concentrations of 22 trace elements in composited fish liver samples were measured at 14 of the 32 sites. Most frequently detected organochlorines were DDT related compounds at 31 sites, total PCBs at 28 sites, and chlordane related compounds at 25 sites. Concentrations of total PCBs in fish tissue were generally higher at the large river sites than at the smaller tributary sites. Concentrations of chlordane-related compounds in fish tissue were higher at sites from more urbanized basins than at sites from predominately agriculture and forested basins. Concentrations of the DDT related compounds were undifferentiated among sites comprising different land uses. Trace elements detected at all 14 sites included boron, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, and zinc. Trace elements detected at 10 or more sites included arsenic, mercury, silver, strontium, and vanadium. Antimony, beryllium, and uranium were not detected at any site.

METHOD OF RECOVERING URANIUM COMPOUNDS

DOEpatents

Poirier, R.H.

1957-10-29

S>The recovery of uranium compounds which have been adsorbed on anion exchange resins is discussed. The uranium and thorium-containing residues from monazite processed by alkali hydroxide are separated from solution, and leached with an alkali metal carbonate solution, whereby the uranium and thorium hydrorides are dissolved. The carbonate solution is then passed over an anion exchange resin causing the uranium to be adsorbed while the thorium remains in solution. The uranium may be recovered by contacting the uranium-holding resin with an aqueous ammonium carbonate solution whereby the uranium values are eluted from the resin and then heating the eluate whereby carbon dioxide and ammonia are given off, the pH value of the solution is lowered, and the uranium is precipitated.

Identifying anthropogenic uranium compounds using soft X-ray near-edge absorption spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ward, Jesse D.; Bowden, Mark; Tom Resch, C.; Eiden, Gregory C.; Pemmaraju, C. D.; Prendergast, David; Duffin, Andrew M.

2017-01-01

Uranium ores mined for industrial use are typically acid-leached to produce yellowcake and then converted into uranium halides for enrichment and purification. These anthropogenic chemical forms of uranium are distinct from their mineral counterparts. The purpose of this study is to use soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy to characterize several common anthropogenic uranium compounds important to the nuclear fuel cycle. Chemical analyses of these compounds are important for process and environmental monitoring. X-ray absorption techniques have several advantages in this regard, including element-specificity, chemical sensitivity, and high spectral resolution. Oxygen K-edge spectra were collected for uranyl nitrate, uranyl fluoride, and uranyl chloride, and fluorine K-edge spectra were collected for uranyl fluoride and uranium tetrafluoride. Interpretation of the data is aided by comparisons to calculated spectra. The effect of hydration state on the sample, a potential complication in interpreting oxygen K-edge spectra, is discussed. These compounds have unique spectral signatures that can be used to identify unknown samples.

CHAMA RIVER CANYON WILDERNESS AND CONTIGUOUS ROADLESS AREA, NEW MEXICO.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ridgley, Jennie L.; Light, Thomas D.

1984-01-01

Results of mineral surveys indicate that the Chama River Canyon Wilderness and contiguous roadless area in new Mexico have a probable mineral-resource potential for copper with associated uranium and silver. Gypsum occurs throughout the area, exposed in the canyon walls. Further study of the wilderness should concentrate on exploratory drilling to test the oil and gas potential of Pennsylvanian strata and evaluate vanadium anomalies in the Todilto as a prospecting guide for locating uranium.

Mortality (1968-2008) in a French cohort of uranium enrichment workers potentially exposed to rapidly soluble uranium compounds.

PubMed

Zhivin, Sergey; Guseva Canu, Irina; Samson, Eric; Laurent, Olivier; Grellier, James; Collomb, Philippe; Zablotska, Lydia B; Laurier, Dominique

2016-03-01

Until recently, enrichment of uranium for civil and military purposes in France was carried out by gaseous diffusion using rapidly soluble uranium compounds. We analysed the relationship between exposure to soluble uranium compounds and exposure to external γ-radiation and mortality in a cohort of 4688 French uranium enrichment workers who were employed between 1964 and 2006. Data on individual annual exposure to radiological and non-radiological hazards were collected for workers of the AREVA NC, CEA and Eurodif uranium enrichment plants from job-exposure matrixes and external dosimetry records, differentiating between natural, enriched and depleted uranium. Cause-specific mortality was compared with the French general population via standardised mortality ratios (SMR), and was analysed via Poisson regression using log-linear and linear excess relative risk models. Over the period of follow-up, 131 161 person-years at risk were accrued and 21% of the subjects had died. A strong healthy worker effect was observed: all causes SMR=0.69, 95% CI 0.65 to 0.74. SMR for pleural cancer was significantly increased (2.3, 95% CI 1.06 to 4.4), but was only based on nine cases. Internal uranium and external γ-radiation exposures were not significantly associated with any cause of mortality. This is the first study of French uranium enrichment workers. Although limited in statistical power, further follow-up of this cohort, estimation of internal uranium doses and pooling with similar cohorts should elucidate potential risks associated with exposure to soluble uranium compounds. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Exposure-related health effects of silver and silver compounds: a review.

PubMed

Drake, Pamela L; Hazelwood, Kyle J

2005-10-01

A critical review of studies examining exposures to the various forms of silver was conducted to determine if some silver species are more toxic than others. The impetus behind conducting this review is that several occupational exposure limits and guidelines exist for silver, but the values for each depend on the form of silver as well as the individual agency making the recommendations. For instance, the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists has established separate threshold limit values for metallic silver (0.1 mg/m3) and soluble compounds of silver (0.01 mg/m3). On the other hand, the permissible exposure limit (PEL) recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Mine Safety and Health Administration and the recommended exposure limit set by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is 0.01 mg/m3 for all forms of silver. The adverse effects of chronic exposure to silver are a permanent bluish-gray discoloration of the skin (argyria) or eyes (argyrosis). Most studies discuss cases of argyria and argyrosis that have resulted primarily from exposure to the soluble forms of silver. Besides argyria and argyrosis, exposure to soluble silver compounds may produce other toxic effects, including liver and kidney damage, irritation of the eyes, skin, respiratory, and intestinal tract, and changes in blood cells. Metallic silver appears to pose minimal risk to health. The current occupational exposure limits do not reflect the apparent difference in toxicities between soluble and metallic silver; thus, many researchers have recommended that separate PELs be established.

MOD silver metallization for photovoltaics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vest, G. M.; Vest, R. W.

1984-01-01

The development of flat plate solar arrays is reported. Photovoltaic cells require back side metallization and a collector grid system on the front surface. Metallo-organic decomposition (MOD) silver films can eliminate most of the present problems with silver conductors. The objectives are to: (1) identify and characterize suitable MO compounds; (2) develop generic synthesis procedures for the MO compounds; (3) develop generic fabrication procedures to screen printable MOD silver inks; (4) optimize processing conditions to produce grid patterns and photovoltaic cells; and (5) develop a model which describes the adhesion between the fired silver film and the silicon surface.

Bird Surveys at DARHT Before and During Operations: Comparison of Species Abundance and Composition and Trace Element Uptake

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

P. R. Fresquez, D. C. Keller, C. D. Hathcock

2007-11-30

The Dual-Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test (DARHT) Facility Mitigation Action Plan specifies the comparison of baseline conditions in biotic and abiotic media with those collected after operations have started. Operations at DARHT at Los Alamos National Laboratory started in 2000. In this study, the abundance and composition of birds collected near the DARHT facility from 2003 through 2006 were determined and compared to a preoperational period (1999). In addition, the levels of radionuclides and other inorganic chemicals in birds were compared to regional statistical reference levels (RSRLs). The number and diversity of bird species generally increased over preoperational levels with themore » greatest number of birds (412) and species (46) occurring in 2005. The most common bird species collected regardless of time periods were the chipping sparrow (Spizella passerina), the Virginia's warbler (Vermivora virginiae), the western bluebird (Sialia mexicana), the broad-tailed hummingbird (Selasphorus platycercus), the sage sparrow (Amphispiza belli), and the western tanager (Piranga ludoviciana). Most radionuclides, with the exception of uranium-234 and uranium-238, in (whole body) birds collected after operations began were either not detected or below RSRLs. Uranium-234 and uranium-238 concentrations in a few samples were far below screening levels and do not pose a potential unacceptable dose to the birds. In contrast, many inorganic chemicals, particularly arsenic and silver, in birds collected before and after operations began were in higher concentrations than RSRLs. Because birds (skin plus feathers) collected in the years before operations began contained higher levels of arsenic and silver than RSRLs and because there was no evidence of these metals in soil and sediment directly around the DARHT facility, the elevated levels of these metals in birds during early operations are probably not related to DARHT operations. Arsenic and silver in birds, however, have decreased over time to near background levels in 2007.« less

Measurement of the Auger parameter and Wagner plot for uranium compounds

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Holliday, Kiel S.; Siekhaus, Wigbert; Nelson, Art J.

2013-05-15

In this study, the photoemission from the U 4f{sub 7/2} and 4d{sub 5/2} states and the U N{sub 6}O{sub 45}O{sub 45} and N{sub 67}O{sub 45}V x-ray excited Auger transitions were measured for a range of uranium compounds. The data are presented in Wagner plots and the Auger parameter is calculated to determine the utility of this technique in the analysis of uranium materials. It was demonstrated that the equal core-level shift assumption holds for uranium. It was therefore possible to quantify the relative relaxation energies, and uranium was found to have localized core-hole shielding. The position of compounds within themore » Wagner plot made it possible to infer information on bonding character and local electron density. The relative ionicity of the uranium compounds studied follows the trend UF{sub 4} > UO{sub 3} > U{sub 3}O{sub 8} > U{sub 4}O{sub 9}/U{sub 3}O{sub 7} Almost-Equal-To UO{sub 2} > URu{sub 2}Si{sub 2}.« less

Recovery of tritium from tritiated molecules

DOEpatents

Swansiger, William A.

1987-01-01

A method of recovering tritium from tritiated compounds comprises the steps of heating tritiated water and other co-injected tritiated compounds in a preheater to temperatures of about 600.degree. C. The mixture is injected into a reactor charged with a mixture of uranium and uranium dioxide. The injected mixture undergoes highly exothermic reactions with the uranium causing reaction temperatures to occur in excess of the melting point of uranium, and complete decomposition of the tritiated compounds to remove tritium therefrom. The uranium dioxide functions as an insulating material and heat sink preventing the reactor side walls from attaining reaction temperatures to thereby minimize tritium permeation rates. The uranium dioxide also functions as a diluent to allow for volumetric expansion of the uranium as it is converted to uranium dioxide. The reactor vessel is preferably stainless steel of sufficient mass so as to function as a heat sink preventing the reactor side walls from approaching high temperatures. A disposable copper liner extends between the reaction chamber and stainless steel outer vessel to prevent alloying of the uranium with the outer vessel. Apparatus used to carry out the method of the invention is also disclosed.

Assessment of environmental and occupational exposure to heavy metals in Taranto and other provinces of Southern Italy by means of scalp hair analysis.

PubMed

Buononato, Elena Viola; De Luca, Daniela; Galeandro, Innocenzo Cataldo; Congedo, Maria Luisa; Cavone, Domenica; Intranuovo, Graziana; Guastadisegno, Chiara Monica; Corrado, Vincenzo; Ferri, Giovanni Maria

2016-06-01

The monitoring of heavy metals in industrialized areas to study their association with different occupational and environmental factors is carried out in different ways. In this study, scalp hair analysis was used for the assessment of exposure to these metals in the industrial city of Taranto, characterized by a severe environmental pollution. The highest median values were observed for aluminum, barium, cadmium, lead, mercury, and uranium. Moreover, in the industrial area of Taranto, high levels of barium, cadmium, lead, mercury, nickel, and silver were observed in comparison with other Apulia areas. The risk odds ratios (ORs) for observing values above the 50th percentile were elevated for mercury and fish consumption, uranium and milk consumption, lead and female sex, and aluminum and mineral water consumption. No significant increased risk was observed for occupational activities. In a dendrogram of a cluster analysis, three clusters were observed for the different areas of Taranto (Borgo, San Vito, and Statte). A scree plot and score variables plot underline the presence of two principal components: the first regarding antimony, lead, tin, aluminum and silver; the second regarding mercury and uranium. The observed clusters (Borgo, San Vito, and Statte) showed that lead, antimony, tin, aluminum, and silver were the main component. The highest values above the 50th percentile of these minerals, especially lead, were observed in the Borgo area. The observed metal concentration in the Borgo area is compatible with the presence in Taranto of a military dockyard and a reported increase of lung cancer risk among residents of that area.

Silver Complexes of Dihalogen Molecules.

PubMed

Malinowski, Przemysław J; Himmel, Daniel; Krossing, Ingo

2016-08-01

The perfluorohexane-soluble and donor-free silver compound Ag(A) (A=Al(OR(F) )4 ; R(F) =C(CF3 )3 ) prepared using a facile novel route has unprecedented capabilities to form unusual and weakly bound complexes. Here, we report on the three dihalogen-silver complexes Ag(Cl2 )A, Ag(Br2 )A, and Ag(I2 )A derived from the soluble silver compound Ag(A) (characterized by single-crystal/powder XRD, Raman spectra, and quantum-mechanical calculations). © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

MOD silver metallization for photovoltaics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vest, G. M.; Vest, R. W.

1985-01-01

The feasibility of utilizing metallo-organic decomposition (MOD) silver inks were investigated for front contact metallization of solar cells. Generic synthesis procedures were developed for all metallo-organic compounds investigated. Silver neodecanoate was found to be the most suitable silver metallo-organic compound for use in thick film inks, but the quality of the inks was found to be highly dependent on its purity. Although neither the process nor inks were completely optimized for solar cell front contact metallization, they show great promise for this application.

LIQUID METAL COMPOSITIONS CONTAINING URANIUM

DOEpatents

Teitel, R.J.

1959-04-21

Liquid metal compositions containing a solid uranium compound dispersed therein is described. Uranium combines with tin to form the intermetallic compound USn/sub 3/. It has been found that this compound may be incorporated into a liquid bath containing bismuth and lead-bismuth components, if a relatively small percentage of tin is also included in the bath. The composition has a low thermal neutron cross section which makes it suitable for use in a liquid metal fueled nuclear reactor.

Effect of nano silver and silver nitrate on seed yield of (Ocimum basilicum L.)

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nano silver and silver nitrate on yield of seed in basil plant. The study was carried out in a randomized block design with three replications. Results Four levels of either silver nitrate (0, 100, 200 and 300 ppm) or nano silver (0, 20, 40, and 60 ppm) were sprayed on basil plant at seed growth stage. The results showed that there was no significant difference between 100 ppm of silver nitrate and 60 ppm concentration of nano silver on the shoot silver concentration. However, increasing the concentration of silver nitrate from 100 to 300 ppm caused a decrease in seed yield. In contrast, a raise in the concentration of nano silver from 20 to 60 ppm has led to an improvement in the seed yield. Additionally, the lowest amount of seed yield was found with control plants. Conclusions Finally, with increasing level of silver nitrate, the polyphenol compound content was raised but the enhancing level of nano silver resulting in the reduction of these components. In conclusion, nano silver can be used instead of other compounds of silver. PMID:25383311

Decontamination of uranium-contaminated waste oil using supercritical fluid and nitric acid.

PubMed

Sung, Jinhyun; Kim, Jungsoo; Lee, Youngbae; Seol, Jeunggun; Ryu, Jaebong; Park, Kwangheon

2011-07-01

The waste oil used in nuclear fuel processing is contaminated with uranium because of its contact with materials or environments containing uranium. Under current law, waste oil that has been contaminated with uranium is very difficult to dispose of at a radioactive waste disposal site. To dispose of the uranium-contaminated waste oil, the uranium was separated from the contaminated waste oil. Supercritical R-22 is an excellent solvent for extracting clean oil from uranium-contaminated waste oil. The critical temperature of R-22 is 96.15 °C and the critical pressure is 49.9 bar. In this study, a process to remove uranium from the uranium-contaminated waste oil using supercritical R-22 was developed. The waste oil has a small amount of additives containing N, S or P, such as amines, dithiocarbamates and dialkyldithiophosphates. It seems that these organic additives form uranium-combined compounds. For this reason, dissolution of uranium from the uranium-combined compounds using nitric acid was needed. The efficiency of the removal of uranium from the uranium-contaminated waste oil using supercritical R-22 extraction and nitric acid treatment was determined.

Uranium induces oxidative stress in lung epithelial cells

PubMed Central

Periyakaruppan, Adaikkappan; Kumar, Felix; Sarkar, Shubhashish; Sharma, Chidananda S.

2009-01-01

Uranium compounds are widely used in the nuclear fuel cycle, antitank weapons, tank armor, and also as a pigment to color ceramics and glass. Effective management of waste uranium compounds is necessary to prevent exposure to avoid adverse health effects on the population. Health risks associated with uranium exposure includes kidney disease and respiratory disorders. In addition, several published results have shown uranium or depleted uranium causes DNA damage, mutagenicity, cancer and neurological defects. In the current study, uranium toxicity was evaluated in rat lung epithelial cells. The study shows uranium induces significant oxidative stress in rat lung epithelial cells followed by concomitant decrease in the antioxidant potential of the cells. Treatment with uranium to rat lung epithelial cells also decreased cell proliferation after 72 h in culture. The decrease in cell proliferation was attributed to loss of total glutathione and superoxide dismutase in the presence of uranium. Thus the results indicate the ineffectiveness of antioxidant system’s response to the oxidative stress induced by uranium in the cells. PMID:17124605

Antibacterial and DNA cleavage activity of carbonyl functionalized N-heterocyclic carbene-silver(I) and selenium compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haque, Rosenani A.; Iqbal, Muhammad Adnan; Mohamad, Faisal; Razali, Mohd R.

2018-03-01

The article describes syntheses and characterizations of carbonyl functionalized benzimidazolium salts, I-IV. While salts I-III are unstable at room temperature, salt IV remained stable and was further utilised to form N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) compounds of silver(I), V and VI, and selenium compound, VII respectively. Compounds IV-VII were tested for their antibacterial potential against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Salt IV shows a very low inhibition potential (minimum inhibitory concentration, MIC 500 μg/mL) compared to the respective silver(I)-NHC, V and VI (MIC 31.25 μg/mL against both, E. coli and S. aureus) and selenium compound, VII (MIC 125 μg/mL against E. coli and 62.50 μg/mL against S. aureus). In DNA cleavage abilities, all the test compounds cleave DNA in which the VII cleaves the DNA at the faster rate. Meanwhile, the silver(I)-NHC complexes V and VI act at the same mode and pattern of DNA cleavage while VII is similar to IV.

The uranium-bearing nickel-cobalt-native silver deposits in the Black Hawk district, Grant County, New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gillerman, Elliot; Whitebread, Donald H.

1953-01-01

The Black Hawk (Bullard Peak) district, Grant County, N. Mex., is 21 miles by road west of Silver City. From 1881 to 1893 more than $1,000,000.00 of high-grade silver ore is reported to have been shipped from the district. Since 1893 there has been no mining in the district except during a short period in 1917 when the Black Hawk mine was rehabilitated. Pre-Cambrian quartz diorite gneiss, which contains inclusions of quartzite, schist, monzonite, and quartz monzonite, is the most widespread rock in the district. The quartz diorite gneiss is intruded by many pre-Cambrian and younger rocks, including diorite granite, diabase, monzonite porphyry and andesite and is overlain by the Upper Cretaceous Beartooth quartzite. The monzonite porphyry, probably of late Cretaceous or early Tertiary age, forms a small stock along the northwestern edge of the district and numerous dikes and irregular masses throughout the district. The ore deposits are in fissure veins that contain silver, cobalt, and uranium. The ore minerals, which include native silver, niccolite, millerite, skutterudite, nickel skutterudite, bismuthinite, pitchblende, and sphalerite, are in a carbonate gangue in narrow, persistent veins, most of which trend northeasterly. Pitchblende has been identified in the Black Hawk and the Alhabra deposits and unidentified radioactive minerals were found at five other localities. The deposits that contain the radioactive minerals constitude a belt 600 to 1,500 feet wide that trends about N. 45° E., and is approximately parallel to the southeastern boundary of the monzonite porphyry stock. All the major ore deposits are in the quartz diorite gneiss in close proximity to the monzonite porphyry. The ore deposits are similar to the deposits at Great Bear Lake, Canada, and Joachimstahl, Czechoslovakia.

Semi-automatic version of the potentiometric titration method for characterization of uranium compounds.

PubMed

Cristiano, Bárbara F G; Delgado, José Ubiratan; da Silva, José Wanderley S; de Barros, Pedro D; de Araújo, Radier M S; Dias, Fábio C; Lopes, Ricardo T

2012-09-01

The potentiometric titration method was used for characterization of uranium compounds to be applied in intercomparison programs. The method is applied with traceability assured using a potassium dichromate primary standard. A semi-automatic version was developed to reduce the analysis time and the operator variation. The standard uncertainty in determining the total concentration of uranium was around 0.01%, which is suitable for uranium characterization and compatible with those obtained by manual techniques. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Identification of Uranyl Minerals Using Oxygen K-Edge X Ray Absorption Spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ward, Jesse D.; Bowden, Mark E.; Resch, Charles T.

2016-03-01

Uranium analysis is consistently needed throughout the fuel cycle, from mining to fuel fabrication to environmental monitoring. Although most of the world’s uranium is immobilized as pitchblende or uraninite, there exists a plethora of secondary uranium minerals, nearly all of which contain the uranyl cation. Analysis of uranyl compounds can provide clues as to a sample’s facility of origin and chemical history. X-ray absorption spectroscopy is one technique that could enhance our ability to identify uranium minerals. Although there is limited chemical information to be gained from the uranium X-ray absorption edges, recent studies have successfully used ligand NEXAFS tomore » study the physical chemistry of various uranium compounds. This study extends the use of ligand NEXAFS to analyze a suite of uranium minerals. We find that major classes of uranyl compounds (carbonate, oxyhydroxide, silicate, and phosphate) exhibit characteristic lineshapes in the oxygen K-edge absorption spectra. As a result, this work establishes a library of reference spectra that can be used to classify unknown uranyl minerals.« less

PRODUCTION OF URANIUM AND THORIUM COMPOUNDS

DOEpatents

Arden, T.V.; Burstall, F.H.; Linstead, R.P.; Wells, R.A.

1955-12-27

Compounds of Th and U are extracted with an organic solvent in the presence of an adsorbent substance which has greater retentivity for impurities present than for the uranium and/or thorium. The preferred adsorbent material is noted as being cellulose. The uranium and thoriumcontaining substances treated are preferably in the form of dissolved nitrates, and the preferred organic solvent is diethyl ether.

Conversion of depleted uranium hexafluoride to a solid uranium compound

DOEpatents

Rothman, Alan B.; Graczyk, Donald G.; Essling, Alice M.; Horwitz, E. Philip

2001-01-01

A process for converting UF.sub.6 to a solid uranium compound such as UO.sub.2 and CaF. The UF.sub.6 vapor form is contacted with an aqueous solution of NH.sub.4 OH at a pH greater than 7 to precipitate at least some solid uranium values as a solid leaving an aqueous solution containing NH.sub.4 OH and NH.sub.4 F and remaining uranium values. The solid uranium values are separated from the aqueous solution of NH.sub.4 OH and NH.sub.4 F and remaining uranium values which is then diluted with additional water precipitating more uranium values as a solid leaving trace quantities of uranium in a dilute aqueous solution. The dilute aqueous solution is contacted with an ion-exchange resin to remove substantially all the uranium values from the dilute aqueous solution. The dilute solution being contacted with Ca(OH).sub.2 to precipitate CaF.sub.2 leaving dilute NH.sub.4 OH.

Harnessing redox activity for the formation of uranium tris(imido) compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, Nickolas H.; Odoh, Samuel O.; Yao, Yiyi; Williams, Ursula J.; Schaefer, Brian A.; Kiernicki, John J.; Lewis, Andrew J.; Goshert, Mitchell D.; Fanwick, Phillip E.; Schelter, Eric J.; Walensky, Justin R.; Gagliardi, Laura; Bart, Suzanne C.

2014-10-01

Classically, late transition-metal organometallic compounds promote multielectron processes solely through the change in oxidation state of the metal centre. In contrast, uranium typically undergoes single-electron chemistry. However, using redox-active ligands can engage multielectron reactivity at this metal in analogy to transition metals. Here we show that a redox-flexible pyridine(diimine) ligand can stabilize a series of highly reduced uranium coordination complexes by storing one, two or three electrons in the ligand. These species reduce organoazides easily to form uranium-nitrogen multiple bonds with the release of dinitrogen. The extent of ligand reduction dictates the formation of uranium mono-, bis- and tris(imido) products. Spectroscopic and structural characterization of these compounds supports the idea that electrons are stored in the ligand framework and used in subsequent reactivity. Computational analyses of the uranium imido products probed their molecular and electronic structures, which facilitated a comparison between the bonding in the tris(imido) structure and its tris(oxo) analogue.

Phenolic compounds in ectomycorrhizal interaction of lignin modified silver birch

PubMed Central

Sutela, Suvi; Niemi, Karoliina; Edesi, Jaanika; Laakso, Tapio; Saranpää, Pekka; Vuosku, Jaana; Mäkelä, Riina; Tiimonen, Heidi; Chiang, Vincent L; Koskimäki, Janne; Suorsa, Marja; Julkunen-Tiitto, Riitta; Häggman, Hely

2009-01-01

Background The monolignol biosynthetic pathway interconnects with the biosynthesis of other secondary phenolic metabolites, such as cinnamic acid derivatives, flavonoids and condensed tannins. The objective of this study is to evaluate whether genetic modification of the monolignol pathway in silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) would alter the metabolism of these phenolic compounds and how such alterations, if exist, would affect the ectomycorrhizal symbiosis. Results Silver birch lines expressing quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides L.) caffeate/5-hydroxyferulate O-methyltransferase (PtCOMT) under the 35S cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) promoter showed a reduction in the relative expression of a putative silver birch COMT (BpCOMT) gene and, consequently, a decrease in the lignin syringyl/guaiacyl composition ratio. Alterations were also detected in concentrations of certain phenolic compounds. All PtCOMT silver birch lines produced normal ectomycorrhizas with the ectomycorrhizal fungus Paxillus involutus (Batsch: Fr.), and the formation of symbiosis enhanced the growth of the transgenic plants. Conclusion The down-regulation of BpCOMT in the 35S-PtCOMT lines caused a reduction in the syringyl/guaiacyl ratio of lignin, but no significant effect was seen in the composition or quantity of phenolic compounds that would have been caused by the expression of PtCOMT under the 35S or UbB1 promoter. Moreover, the detected alterations in the composition of lignin and secondary phenolic compounds had no effect on the interaction between silver birch and P. involutus. PMID:19788757

Recovery of uranium from seawater by immobilized tannin

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sakaguchi, T.; Nakajima, A.

1987-06-01

Tannin compounds having multiple adjacent hydroxy groups have an extremely high affinity for uranium. To prevent the leaching of tannins into water and to improve the adsorbing characteristics of these compounds, the authors tried to immobilize tannins. The immobilized tannin has the most favorable features for uranium recovery; high selective adsorption ability to uranium, rapid adsorption rate, and applicability in both column and batch systems. The immobilized tannin can recover uranium from natural seawater with high efficiency. About 2530 ..mu..g uranium is adsorbed per gram of this adsorbent within 22 h. Depending on the concentration in seawater, an enrichment ofmore » up to 766,000-fold within the adsorbent is possible. Almost all uranium adsorbed is easily desorbed with a very dilute acid. Thus, the immobilized tannin can be used repeatedly in the adsorption-desorption process.« less

Economic geology of the Central City district, Gilpin County, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sims, P.K.; Drake, Avery A.; Tooker, E.W.

1963-01-01

The Central City district, in Gilpin County, Colo., is on the east flank of the Front Range, about 30 miles west of Denver. The district is the most important mining camp in the Front Range mineral belt, and has yielded more than $100 million worth of gold, silver, uranium, and base-metal ores since 1859. Gold accounts for about 85 percent of the dollar value of the ore. In recent years mining activity has been slack but from 1950 to 1955 the search for uranium ores stimulated prospecting and development.

High density dispersion fuel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hofman, G.L.

1996-09-01

A fuel development campaign that results in an aluminum plate-type fuel of unlimited LEU burnup capability with an uranium loading of 9 grams per cm{sup 3} of meat should be considered an unqualified success. The current worldwide approved and accepted highest loading is 4.8 g cm{sup {minus}3} with U{sub 3}Si{sub 2} as fuel. High-density uranium compounds offer no real density advantage over U{sub 3}Si{sub 2} and have less desirable fabrication and performance characteristics as well. Of the higher-density compounds, U{sub 3}Si has approximately a 30% higher uranium density but the density of the U{sub 6}X compounds would yield the factormore » 1.5 needed to achieve 9 g cm{sup {minus}3} uranium loading. Unfortunately, irradiation tests proved these peritectic compounds have poor swelling behavior. It is for this reason that the authors are turning to uranium alloys. The reason pure uranium was not seriously considered as a dispersion fuel is mainly due to its high rate of growth and swelling at low temperatures. This problem was solved at least for relatively low burnup application in non-dispersion fuel elements with small additions of Si, Fe, and Al. This so called adjusted uranium has nearly the same density as pure {alpha}-uranium and it seems prudent to reconsider this alloy as a dispersant. Further modifications of uranium metal to achieve higher burnup swelling stability involve stabilization of the cubic {gamma} phase at low temperatures where normally {alpha} phase exists. Several low neutron capture cross section elements such as Zr, Nb, Ti and Mo accomplish this in various degrees. The challenge is to produce a suitable form of fuel powder and develop a plate fabrication procedure, as well as obtain high burnup capability through irradiation testing.« less

Phenolic Compounds and Expression of 4CL Genes in Silver Birch Clones and Pt4CL1a Lines

PubMed Central

Sutela, Suvi; Hahl, Terhi; Tiimonen, Heidi; Aronen, Tuija; Ylioja, Tiina; Laakso, Tapio; Saranpää, Pekka; Chiang, Vincent; Julkunen-Tiitto, Riitta; Häggman, Hely

2014-01-01

A small multigene family encodes 4-coumarate:CoA ligases (4CLs) catalyzing the CoA ligation of hydroxycinnamic acids, a branch point step directing metabolites to a flavonoid or monolignol pathway. In the present study, we examined the effect of antisense Populus tremuloides 4CL (Pt4CL1) to the lignin and soluble phenolic compound composition of silver birch (Betula pendula) Pt4CL1a lines in comparison with non-transgenic silver birch clones. The endogenous expression of silver birch 4CL genes was recorded in the stems and leaves and also in leaves that were mechanically injured. In one of the transgenic Pt4CL1a lines, the ratio of syringyl (S) and guaiacyl (G) lignin units was increased. Moreover, the transcript levels of putative silver birch 4CL gene (Bp4CL1) were reduced and contents of cinnamic acid derivatives altered. In the other two Pt4CL1a lines changes were detected in the level of individual phenolic compounds. However, considerable variation was found in the transcript levels of silver birch 4CLs as well as in the concentration of phenolic compounds among the transgenic lines and non-transgenic clones. Wounding induced the expression of Bp4CL1 and Bp4CL2 in leaves in all clones and transgenic lines, whereas the transcript levels of Bp4CL3 and Bp4CL4 remained unchanged. Moreover, minor changes were detected in the concentrations of phenolic compounds caused by wounding. As an overall trend the wounding decreased the flavonoid content in silver birches and increased the content of soluble condensed tannins. The results indicate that by reducing the Bp4CL1 transcript levels lignin composition could be modified. However, the alterations found among the Pt4CL1a lines and the non-transgenic clones were within the natural variation of silver birches, as shown in the present study by the clonal differences in the transcripts levels of 4CL genes, soluble phenolic compounds and condensed tannins. PMID:25502441

URANIUM EXTRACTION PROCESS USING SYNERGISTIC REAGENTS

DOEpatents

Schmitt, J.M.; Blake, C.A. Jr.; Brown, K.B.; Coleman, C.F.

1958-11-01

Improved methods are presented for recovering uranium values from aqueous solutions by organic solvent extraction. The improvement lies in the use, in combination, of two classes of organic compounds so that their extracting properties are enhanced synergistically. The two classes of organic compounds are dialkylphosphoric acid and certain neutral organophosphorus compounds such as trialkylphosphates, trialkylphosphonates, trlalkylphosphinates and trialkylphosphine oxides.

The role of uranium-arene bonding in H2O reduction catalysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Halter, Dominik P.; Heinemann, Frank W.; Maron, Laurent; Meyer, Karsten

2018-03-01

The reactivity of uranium compounds towards small molecules typically occurs through stoichiometric rather than catalytic processes. Examples of uranium catalysts reacting with water are particularly scarce, because stable uranyl groups form that preclude the recovery of the uranium compound. Recently, however, an arene-anchored, electron-rich uranium complex has been shown to facilitate the electrocatalytic formation of H2 from H2O. Here, we present the precise role of uranium-arene δ bonding in intermediates of the catalytic cycle, as well as details of the atypical two-electron oxidative addition of H2O to the trivalent uranium catalyst. Both aspects were explored by synthesizing mid- and high-valent uranium-oxo intermediates and by performing comparative studies with a structurally related complex that cannot engage in δ bonding. The redox activity of the arene anchor and a covalent δ-bonding interaction with the uranium ion during H2 formation were supported by density functional theory analysis. Detailed insight into this catalytic system may inspire the design of ligands for new uranium catalysts.

Apparatus to recover tritium from tritiated molecules

DOEpatents

Swansiger, William A.

1988-01-01

An apparatus for recovering tritium from tritiated compounds is provided, including a preheater for heating tritiated water and other co-injected tritiated compounds to temperatures of about 600.degree. C. and a reactor charged with a mixture of uranium and uranium dioxide for receiving the preheated mixture. The reactor vessel is preferably stainless steel of sufficient mass so as to function as a heat sink preventing the reactor side walls from approaching high temperatures. A disposable copper liner extends between the reaction chamber and stainless steel outer vessel to prevent alloying of the uranium with the outer vessel. The uranium dioxide functions as an insulating material and heat sink preventing the reactor side walls from attaining reaction temperatures to thereby minimize tritium permeation rates. The uranium dioxide also functions as a diluent to allow for volumetric expansion of the uranium as it is converted to uranium dioxide.

Cytotoxic effects of nanosilver are highly dependent on the chloride concentration and the presence of organic compounds in the cell culture media.

PubMed

Kaiser, Jean-Pierre; Roesslein, Matthias; Diener, Liliane; Wichser, Adrian; Nowack, Bernd; Wick, Peter

2017-01-06

Nanosilver shows great promise for use in industrial, consumer or medical products because of its antimicrobial properties. However, the underlying mechanisms of the effects of silver nanoparticles on human cells are still controversial. Therefore, in the present study the influence of the chloride concentration and different serum content of culture media on the cytotoxic effects of nanosilver was systematically evaluated. Our results show that nanosilver toxicity was strongly affected by the composition of the culture media. The chloride concentration, as well as the carbon content affected the silver agglomeration and the complex formation. But also the dissolution of nanosilver and the availability of free silver ions (Ag + ) were severely affected by the compositions of the culture media. Cells, only exposed to silver particles in suspension and dissolved silver complexes, did not show any effects under all conditions. Nanosilver agglomerates and silver complexes were not very soluble. Thus, cells growing on the bottom of the culture dishes were exposed to sedimented nanosilver agglomerates and precipitated silver complexes. Locally, the concentration of silver on the cell surface was very high, much higher compared the silver concentration in the bulk solution. The cytotoxic effects of nanosilver are therefore a combination of precipitated silver complexes and organic silver compounds rather than free silver ions. Silver coatings are used in health care products due to their bacteriostatic or antibacterial properties. The assessment of the toxicity of a certain compound is mostly done using in vitro assays. Therefore, cytotoxicity studies of nanosilver using human cell cultures have to be undertaken under well controlled and understood cultivations conditions in order to improve the compatibility of different studies. Especially when eukaryotic versus prokaryotic systems are compared for the evaluation of the use of nanosilver as antibacterial coatings for implants in order to prevent bacterial colonization.

Floquet Topological Insulators in Uranium Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pi, Shu-Ting; Savrasov, Sergey

2014-03-01

A major issue regarding the Uranium based nuclear fuels is to conduct the heat from the core area to its outer area. Unfortunately, those materials are notorious for their extremely low thermal conductivity due to the phonon-dominated-heat-transport properties in insulating states. Although metallic Uranium compounds are helpful in increasing the thermal conductivity, their low melting point still make those efforts in vain. In this report, we will figure out potential Uranium based Floquet topological insulators where the insulating bulk states accompanied with metallic surface states is achieved by applying periodic electrical fields which makes the coexistence of both benefits possible.

Analysis of a Uranium Oxide Sample Interdicted in Slovakia (FSC 12-3-1)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Borg, Lars E.; Dai, Zurong; Eppich, Gary R.

2014-01-17

We provide a concise summary of analyses of a natural uranium sample seized in Slovakia in November 2007. Results are presented for compound identification, water content, U assay, trace element abundances, trace organic compounds, isotope compositions for U, Pb, Sr and O, and age determination using the 234U – 230Th and 235U – 231Pa chronometers. The sample is a mixture of two common uranium compounds - schoepite and uraninite. The uranium isotope composition is indistinguishable from natural; 236U was not detected. The O, Sr and Pb isotope compositions and trace element abundances are unremarkable. The 234U – 230Th chronometer givesmore » an age of 15.5 years relative to the date of analysis, indicating the sample was produced in January 1997. A comparison of the data for this sample with data in the Uranium Sourcing database failed to find a match, indicating the sample was not produced at a facility represented in the database.« less

Radiation shielding materials and containers incorporating same

DOEpatents

Mirsky, Steven M.; Krill, Stephen J.; Murray, Alexander P.

2005-11-01

An improved radiation shielding material and storage systems for radioactive materials incorporating the same. The PYRolytic Uranium Compound ("PYRUC") shielding material is preferably formed by heat and/or pressure treatment of a precursor material comprising microspheres of a uranium compound, such as uranium dioxide or uranium carbide, and a suitable binder. The PYRUC shielding material provides improved radiation shielding, thermal characteristic, cost and ease of use in comparison with other shielding materials. The shielding material can be used to form containment systems, container vessels, shielding structures, and containment storage areas, all of which can be used to house radioactive waste. The preferred shielding system is in the form of a container for storage, transportation, and disposal of radioactive waste. In addition, improved methods for preparing uranium dioxide and uranium carbide microspheres for use in the radiation shielding materials are also provided.

PROCESSES OF RECOVERING URANIUM FROM A CALUTRON

DOEpatents

Baird, D.O.; Zumwalt, L.R.

1958-07-15

An improved process is described for recovering the residue of a uranium compound which has been subjected to treatment in a calutron, from the parts of the calutron disposed in the source region upon which the residue is deposited. The process may be utilized when the uranium compound adheres to a surface containing metals of the group consisting of copper, iron, chromium, and nickel. The steps comprise washing the surface with an aqueous acidic oxidizing solvent for the uranium whereby there is obtained an acidic aqueous Solution containing uranium as uranyl ions and metals of said group as impurities, treating the acidic solution with sodium acetate in the presenee of added sodium nitrate to precipitate the uranium as sodium uranyl acetate away from the impurities in the solution, and separating the sodium uranyl acetate from the solution.

Radiation Shielding Materials and Containers Incorporating Same

DOEpatents

Mirsky, Steven M.; Krill, Stephen J.; and Murray, Alexander P.

2005-11-01

An improved radiation shielding material and storage systems for radioactive materials incorporating the same. The PYRolytic Uranium Compound (''PYRUC'') shielding material is preferably formed by heat and/or pressure treatment of a precursor material comprising microspheres of a uranium compound, such as uranium dioxide or uranium carbide, and a suitable binder. The PYRUC shielding material provides improved radiation shielding, thermal characteristic, cost and ease of use in comparison with other shielding materials. The shielding material can be used to form containment systems, container vessels, shielding structures, and containment storage areas, all of which can be used to house radioactive waste. The preferred shielding system is in the form of a container for storage, transportation, and disposal of radioactive waste. In addition, improved methods for preparing uranium dioxide and uranium carbide microspheres for use in the radiation shielding materials are also provided.

METAL PLATING PROCESS

DOEpatents

Walker, D.E.; Noland, R.A.

1958-08-12

A process ts described for obtaining a closely bonded coating of steel or iron on uranium. The process consists of providing, between the steel and uramium. a layer of silver. amd then pressure rolling tbe assembly at about 600 deg C until a reduction of from l0 to 50% has been obtained.

PEROXIDE PROCESS FOR SEPARATION OF RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS

DOEpatents

Seaborg, G.T.; Perlman, I.

1958-09-16

reduced state, from hexavalent uranium. It consists in treating an aqueous solution containing such uranium and plutonium ions with sulfate ions in order to form a soluble uranium sulfate complex and then treating the solution with a soluble thorium compound and a soluble peroxide compound in order to ferm a thorium peroxide carrier precipitate which carries down with it the plutonium peroxide present. During this treatment the pH of the solution must be maintained between 2 and 3.

An Ultrastable Heterobimetallic Uranium(IV)/Vanadium(III) Solid Compound Protected by a Redox-Active Phosphite Ligand: Crystal Structure, Oxidative Dissolution, and First-Principles Simulation.

PubMed

Gui, Daxiang; Dai, Xing; Zheng, Tao; Wang, Xiangxiang; Silver, Mark A; Chen, Lanhua; Zhang, Chao; Diwu, Juan; Zhou, Ruhong; Chai, Zhifang; Wang, Shuao

2018-02-05

The first heterobimetallic uranium(IV)/vanadium(III) phosphite compound, Na 2 UV 2 (HPO 3 ) 6 (denoted as UVP), was synthesized via an in situ redox-active hydrothermal reaction. It exhibits superior hydrolytic and antioxidant stability compared to the majority of structures containing low-valent uranium or vanadium, further elucidated by first-principles simulations, and therefore shows potential applications in nuclear waste management.

THE DIFFERENTIAL THERMAL ANALYSIS OF CYANO-TRANSITION METAL COMPLEXES

DTIC Science & Technology

COMPOUNDS, CHROMATES, COBALT COMPOUNDS, CYANIDES, CYANOGEN, DYES, FERRATES , GASES, HEAT, HYDROXIDES, LITHIUM COMPOUNDS, MOLYBDATES, NICKELATES, NITRATES...OXIDATION REDUCTION REACTIONS, POTASSIUM COMPOUNDS, SILVER COMPOUNDS, SODIUM COMPOUNDS, VANADATES

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chambers, Doug; Wiatzka, Gerd; Brown, Steve

This paper provides the life story of Canada's original radium/uranium mine. In addition to the history of operations, it discusses the unique and successful approach used to identify the key issues and concerns associated with the former radium, uranium and silver mining property and the activities undertaken to define the remedial actions and subsequent remedial plan. The Port Radium Mine site, situated approximately 275 km north of Yellowknife on the east shore of Great Bear Lake, Northwest Territories, was discovered in 1930 and underground mining began in 1932. The mine operated almost continuously from 1932 to 1982, initially for recoverymore » of radium, then uranium and finally, for recovery of silver. Tailings production totaled an estimated 900,000 tons and 800,000 tons from uranium and silver processing operations respectively. In the early days of mining, Port Radium miners were exposed to radon and associated decay product levels (in Working Level Months of exposure - WLM) hundreds of times greater than modern standards. The experience of the Port Radium miners provides important contribution to understanding the risks from radon. While the uranium mine was originally decommissioned in the early 1960's, to the standards of the day, the community of Deline (formerly Fort Franklin) had concerns about residual contamination at the mine site and the potential effects arising from use of traditional lands. The Deline people were also concerned about the possible risks to Deline Dene arising from their work as ore carriers. In the late 1990's, the community of Deline brought these concerns to national attention and consequently, the Government of Canada and the community of Deline agreed to move forward in a collaborative manner to address these concerns. The approach agreed to was to establish the Canada-Deline Uranium Table (CDUT) to provide a joint process by which the people of Deline could have their concerns expressed and addressed. A great deal of work was done through the CDUT, including efforts to assess site environment and safety issues in the context of modern reclamation standards. In addition to the environmental and remediation studies, an assessment of historic exposures of Deline ore carriers to radiation and a follow-up epidemiological feasibility study were performed. SENES Consultants Limited (SENES) carried out the dose reconstruction for the Port Radium miners in the 1990's, was the environmental consultant to the CDUT from 2000 to 2005, developed the Remedial Action Plan (RAP), engineering plans and specifications for decommissioning the Port Radium mine and vicinity sites in 2005/6, supervised the remedial works in 2007 and carried out the long term post closure monitoring from 2008 to 2012. Our firsthand experience from working cooperatively with the CDUT provides insights into effective decommissioning of historic contaminated sites. (authors)« less

Chemical state of fission products in irradiated uranium carbide fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arai, Yasuo; Iwai, Takashi; Ohmichi, Toshihiko

1987-12-01

The chemical state of fission products in irradiated uranium carbide fuel has been estimated by equilibrium calculation using the SOLGASMIX-PV program. Solid state fission products are distributed to the fuel matrix, ternary compounds, carbides of fission products and intermetallic compounds among the condensed phases appearing in the irradiated uranium carbide fuel. The chemical forms are influenced by burnup as well as stoichiometry of the fuel. The results of the present study almost agree with the experimental ones reported for burnup simulated carbides.

Simulation of uranium and plutonium oxides compounds obtained in plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Novoselov, Ivan Yu.; Karengin, Alexander G.; Babaev, Renat G.

2018-03-01

The aim of this paper is to carry out thermodynamic simulation of mixed plutonium and uranium oxides compounds obtained after plasma treatment of plutonium and uranium nitrates and to determine optimal water-salt-organic mixture composition as well as conditions for their plasma treatment (temperature, air mass fraction). Authors conclude that it needs to complete the treatment of nitric solutions in form of water-salt-organic mixtures to guarantee energy saving obtainment of oxide compounds for mixed-oxide fuel and explain the choice of chemical composition of water-salt-organic mixture. It has been confirmed that temperature of 1200 °C is optimal to practice the process. Authors have demonstrated that condensed products after plasma treatment of water-salt-organic mixture contains targeted products (uranium and plutonium oxides) and gaseous products are environmental friendly. In conclusion basic operational modes for practicing the process are showed.

One-step green synthesis and characterization of leaf extract-mediated biocompatible silver and gold nanoparticles from Memecylon umbellatum.

PubMed

Arunachalam, Kantha D; Annamalai, Sathesh Kumar; Hari, Shanmugasundaram

2013-01-01

In this experiment, green-synthesized silver and gold nanoparticles were produced rapidly by treating silver and gold ions with an extract of Memecylon umbellatum leaf. The reaction process was simple and easy to handle, and was monitored using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. The effect of the phytochemicals present in M. umbellatum, including saponins, phenolic compounds, phytosterols, and quinones, on formation of stable silver and gold nanoparticles was investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The morphology and crystalline phase of the nanoparticles were determined by transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The results indicate that the saponins, phytosterols, and phenolic compounds present in the plant extract play a major role in formation of silver and gold nanoparticles in their respective ions in solution. The characteristics of the nanoparticles formed suggest application of silver and gold nanoparticles as chemical sensors in the future. Given the simple and eco-friendly approach for synthesis, these nanoparticles could easily be commercialized for large-scale production.

One-step green synthesis and characterization of leaf extract-mediated biocompatible silver and gold nanoparticles from Memecylon umbellatum

PubMed Central

Arunachalam, Kantha D; Annamalai, Sathesh Kumar; Hari, Shanmugasundaram

2013-01-01

In this experiment, green-synthesized silver and gold nanoparticles were produced rapidly by treating silver and gold ions with an extract of Memecylon umbellatum leaf. The reaction process was simple and easy to handle, and was monitored using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. The effect of the phytochemicals present in M. umbellatum, including saponins, phenolic compounds, phytosterols, and quinones, on formation of stable silver and gold nanoparticles was investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The morphology and crystalline phase of the nanoparticles were determined by transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The results indicate that the saponins, phytosterols, and phenolic compounds present in the plant extract play a major role in formation of silver and gold nanoparticles in their respective ions in solution. The characteristics of the nanoparticles formed suggest application of silver and gold nanoparticles as chemical sensors in the future. Given the simple and eco-friendly approach for synthesis, these nanoparticles could easily be commercialized for large-scale production. PMID:23569372

Silver in medicine: a brief history BC 335 to present.

PubMed

Barillo, David J; Marx, David E

2014-12-01

Silver is a naturally occurring element. Similar to other metals, the ionized form of silver (Ag(+1)) has known antimicrobial properties. A number of wound dressings incorporating silver ion or silver compounds have recently been developed and marketed. In addition, the antimicrobial effects of silver are currently being promoted in consumer products such as clothing and household appliances. The present use of silver in medical and consumer products has prompted concerns for potential toxicity and ecological effects, including induction of microbial resistance to antibiotics. These concerns ignore the fact that silver has been used for medicinal purposes for several thousand years. A historical review of the uses of silver in medicine is presented.

SPRAY CALCINATION REACTOR

DOEpatents

Johnson, B.M.

1963-08-20

A spray calcination reactor for calcining reprocessin- g waste solutions is described. Coaxial within the outer shell of the reactor is a shorter inner shell having heated walls and with open regions above and below. When the solution is sprayed into the irner shell droplets are entrained by a current of gas that moves downwardly within the inner shell and upwardly between it and the outer shell, and while thus being circulated the droplets are calcined to solids, whlch drop to the bottom without being deposited on the walls. (AEC) H03 H0233412 The average molecular weights of four diallyl phthalate polymer samples extruded from the experimental rheometer were redetermined using the vapor phase osmometer. An amine curing agent is required for obtaining suitable silver- filled epoxy-bonded conductive adhesives. When the curing agent was modified with a 47% polyurethane resin, its effectiveness was hampered. Neither silver nor nickel filler impart a high electrical conductivity to Adiprenebased adhesives. Silver filler was found to perform well in Dow-Corning A-4000 adhesive. Two cascaded hot-wire columns are being used to remove heavy gaseous impurities from methane. This purified gas is being enriched in the concentric tube unit to approximately 20% carbon-13. Studies to count low-level krypton-85 in xenon are continuing. The parameters of the counting technique are being determined. The bismuth isotopes produced in bismuth irradiated for polonium production are being determined. Preliminary data indicate the presence of bismuth207 and bismuth-210m. The light bismuth isotopes are probably produced by (n,xn) reactions bismuth-209. The separation of uranium-234 from plutonium-238 solutions was demonstrated. The bulk of the plutonium is removed by anion exchange, and the remainder is extracted from the uranium by solvent extraction techniques. About 99% of the plutonium can be removed in each thenoyltrifluoroacetone extraction. The viscosity, liquid density, and selfdiffusion coefficient for lanthanum, cerium, and praseodymium were determined. The investigation of phase relationships in the plutonium-cerium-copper ternary system was continued on samples containing a high concentration of copper. These analyses indicate that complete solid solution exists between the binary compounds CeCu/sub 2/ and PuCu/sub 2/, thus forming a quasi-binary system. The study of high temperature ceramic fuel materials has continued with the homogenization and microspheroidization of binary mixtures of plutonium dioxide and zirconium dioxide. Sintering a die-pressed pellet of the mixed powders for one hour at 1450 deg C was not sufficient to completely react the constituents. Complete homogenization was obtained when the pellet was melted in the plasma flame. In addition to the plutonium dioxide-zirconium dioxide microspheres, pure beryllium oxide microspheres were produced in the plasma torch. The electronic distribution functions for the 10% by weight PuO/sub 2/ dissolved in a silicate glass were determined. The plutonium-oxygen interaction at about 2.2A is less than the plutonium-oxygen distance for the 5% PuO/sub 2/. The decrease in the interionic distance is indicative of a stronger plutonium-oxygen association for the more concentrated composition. Potassium plutonium sulfate is being evaluated as a reagent to quantitatively separate plutonium from aqueous solutions. The compound containing two waters of hydration was prepared for thermogravimetric studies using analytically pure plutonium-239. Because of the stability of this compound, it is being evaluated as a calorimetric standard for plutonium-238. (auth)

Betula pendula: A Promising Candidate for Phytoremediation of TCE in Northern Climates.

PubMed

Lewis, Jeffrey; Qvarfort, Ulf; Sjöström, Jan

2015-01-01

Betula pendula (Silver birch) trees growing on two contaminated sites were evaluated to assess their capacity to phytoscreen and phytoremediate chlorinated aliphatic compounds and heavy metals. Both locations are industrially-contaminated properties in central Sweden. The first was the site of a trichloroethylene (TCE) spill in the 1980s while the second was polluted with heavy metals by burning industrial wastes. In both cases, sap and sapwood from Silver birch trees were collected and analyzed for either chlorinated aliphatic compounds or heavy metals. These results were compared to analyses of the surface soil, vadose zone pore air and groundwater. Silver birch demonstrated the potential to phytoscreen and possibly phytoremediate TCE and related compounds, but it did not demonstrate the ability to effectively phytoextract heavy metals when compared with hyperaccumulator plants. The capacity of Silver birch to phytoremediate TCE appears comparable to tree species that have been employed in field-scale TCE phytoremediation efforts, such as Populus spp. and Eucalyptus sideroxylon rosea.

URANIUM BISMUTHIDE DISPERSION IN MOLTEN METAL

DOEpatents

Teitel, R.J.

1959-10-27

The formation of intermetallic bismuth compounds of thorium or uranium dispersed in a liquid media containing bismuth and lead is described. A bismuthide of uranium dispersed in a liquid metal medium is formed by dissolving uranium in composition of lead and bismuth containing less than 80% lead and lowering the temperature of the composition to a temperature below the point at which the solubility of uranium is exceeded and above the melting point of the composition.

49 CFR 176.84 - Other requirements for stowage and segregation for cargo vessels and passenger vessels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

...” flammable liquids. 29 Stow “away from” ammonium compounds. 30 Stow “away from” animal or vegetable oils. 31... vegetable oils. 55 Stow “separated from” ammonia. 56 Stow “separated from” ammonium compounds. 57 Stow... hexahydrate solution, uranium metal hexahydrate solution, uranium metal pyrophoric and thorium metal...

49 CFR 176.84 - Other requirements for stowage and segregation for cargo vessels and passenger vessels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

...” flammable liquids. 29 Stow “away from” ammonium compounds. 30 Stow “away from” animal or vegetable oils. 31... vegetable oils. 55 Stow “separated from” ammonia. 56 Stow “separated from” ammonium compounds. 57 Stow... hexahydrate solution, uranium metal hexahydrate solution, uranium metal pyrophoric and thorium metal...

Fluorination process using catalyst

DOEpatents

Hochel, Robert C.; Saturday, Kathy A.

1985-01-01

A process for converting an actinide compound selected from the group consisting of uranium oxides, plutonium oxides, uranium tetrafluorides, plutonium tetrafluorides and mixtures of said oxides and tetrafluorides, to the corresponding volatile actinide hexafluoride by fluorination with a stoichiometric excess of fluorine gas. The improvement involves conducting the fluorination of the plutonium compounds in the presence of a fluoride catalyst selected from the group consisting of CoF.sub.3, AgF.sub.2 and NiF.sub.2, whereby the fluorination is significantly enhanced. The improvement also involves conducting the fluorination of one of the uranium compounds in the presence of a fluoride catalyst selected from the group consisting of CoF.sub.3 and AgF.sub.2, whereby the fluorination is significantly enhanced.

Fluorination process using catalysts

DOEpatents

Hochel, R.C.; Saturday, K.A.

1983-08-25

A process is given for converting an actinide compound selected from the group consisting of uranium oxides, plutonium oxides, uranium tetrafluorides, plutonium tetrafluorides and mixtures of said oxides and tetrafluorides, to the corresponding volatile actinide hexafluoride by fluorination with a stoichiometric excess of fluorine gas. The improvement involves conducting the fluorination of the plutonium compounds in the presence of a fluoride catalyst selected from the group consisting of CoF/sub 3/, AgF/sub 2/ and NiF/sub 2/, whereby the fluorination is significantly enhanced. The improvement also involves conducting the fluorination of one of the uranium compounds in the presence of a fluoride catalyst selected from the group consisting of CoF/sub 3/ and AgF/sub 2/, whereby the fluorination is significantly enhanced.

The U.S. Army Chemical Corps and a Future Within AFRICOM

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-03-01

pollution of surface and coastal waters; poaching of elephants for ivory • Namibia: diamonds, copper, uranium, gold, silver, lead, tin, lithium...desertification; wildlife populations (such as elephant , hippopotamus, giraffe, and lion) threatened because of poaching and habitat destruction...extraction and refining region; chemical runoff into watersheds; poaching seriously threatens rhinoceros, elephant , antelope, and large cat populations

Industrial Production of Uranium; PRODUCCION INDUSTRIAL DE URANIO

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pedregal, J.D.

1956-01-01

The purity requirements of uranium and the necessity of purifying the uranium compounds previous to its metallurgical treatment are briefly discussed as an introduction to the different methods reduction to the metal. The methods which are used by the Junta de Energia Nuclear are indicated. (tr-auth)

Uranium carbide fission target R&D for RIA - an update

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greene, J. P.; Levand, A.; Nolen, J.; Burtseva, T.

2004-12-01

For the Rare Isotope Accelerator (RIA) facility, ISOL targets employing refractory compounds of uranium are being developed to produce radioactive ions for post-acceleration. The availability of refractory uranium compounds in forms that have good thermal conductivity, relatively high density, and adequate release properties for short-lived isotopes remains an important issue. Investigations using commercially obtained uranium carbide material and prepared into targets involving various binder materials have been carried out at ANL. Thin sample pellets have been produced for measurements of thermal conductivity using a new method based on electron bombardment with the thermal radiation observed using a two-color optical pyrometer and performed on samples as a function of grain size, pressing pressure and sintering temperature. Manufacture of uranium carbide powder has now been achieved at ANL. Simulations have been carried out on the thermal behavior of the secondary target assembly incorporating various heat shield configurations.

Trivalent uranium phenylchalcogenide complexes: exploring the bonding and reactivity with CS2 in the Tp*2UEPh series (E = O, S, Se, Te).

PubMed

Matson, Ellen M; Breshears, Andrew T; Kiernicki, John J; Newell, Brian S; Fanwick, Phillip E; Shores, Matthew P; Walensky, Justin R; Bart, Suzanne C

2014-12-15

The trivalent uranium phenylchalcogenide series, Tp*2UEPh (Tp* = hydrotris(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)borate, E = O (1), S (2), Se (3), Te (4)), has been synthesized to investigate the nature of the U-E bond. All compounds have been characterized by (1)H NMR, infrared and electronic absorption spectroscopies, and in the case of 4, X-ray crystallography. Compound 4 was also studied by SQUID magnetometry. Computational studies establish Mulliken spin densities for the uranium centers ranging from 3.005 to 3.027 (B3LYP), consistent for uranium-chalcogenide bonds that are primarily ionic in nature, with a small covalent contribution. The reactivity of 2-4 toward carbon disulfide was also investigated and showed reversible CS2 insertion into the U(III)-E bond, forming Tp*2U(κ(2)-S2CEPh) (E = S (5), Se (6), Te (7)). Compound 5 was characterized crystallographically.

Stream-sediment and panned-concentrate geochemical maps of the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness Study Area, Lake, Park, and Chaffee counties, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nowlan, G.A.; Gerstel, W.J.

1985-01-01

The study area is bounded by several areas of known mineralization (Hedl und and others, 1983). Vein and bedding replacement deposits of silver, zinc, and lead were mined from 1890 until about 1918 in the vicinity of Weston Pass (map A), on the northeastern border of the study area. Gold and silver were mined from about 1860 until about 1880 from veins in the Granite area (map A), on the northwestern border of the study area; minor prospecting activity continues today. From 1935 to 1937, veins of gold, silver, and base metals were mined in the vicinity of Fourmile Creek, on the southwestern border of the study area (map A). Recently, active uranium prospecting has been taking place in the vicinity of the Middle Fork of Salt Creek, on the southeastern border of the study area (map A).

An alternative procedure for uranium analysis in drinking water using AQUALIX columns: application to varied French bottled waters.

PubMed

Bouvier-Capely, C; Bonthonneau, J P; Dadache, E; Rebière, F

2014-01-01

The general population is chronically exposed to uranium ((234)U, (235)U, and (238)U) and polonium ((210)Po) mainly through day-to-day food and beverage intake. The measurement of these naturally-occurring radionuclides in drinking water is important to assess their health impact. In this work the applicability of calix[6]arene-derivatives columns for uranium analysis in drinking water was investigated. A simple and effective method was proposed on a specific column called AQUALIX, for the separation and preconcentration of U from drinking water. This procedure is suitable for routine analysis and the analysis time is considerably shortened (around 4h) by combining the separation on AQUALIX with fast ICP-MS measurement. This new method was tested on different French bottled waters (still mineral water, sparkling mineral water, and spring water). Then, the case of simultaneous presence of uranium and polonium in water was considered due to interferences in alpha spectrometry measurement. A protocol was proposed using a first usual step of spontaneous deposition of polonium on silver disc in order to separate Po, followed by the uranium extraction on AQUALIX column before alpha spectrometry counting. © 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V.

PROCESS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF AMMONIUM URANIUM FLUORIDE

DOEpatents

Ellis, A.S.; Mooney, R.B.

1953-08-25

This patent relates to the preparation of ammonium uranium fluoride. The process comprises adding a water soluble fluoride to an aqueous solution of a uranous compound containing an ammonium salt, and isolating the resulting precipitate. This patent relates to the manufacture of uranium tetnafluoride from ammonium uranium fluoride, NH/sub 4/UF/sub 5/. Uranium tetrafluoride is prepared by heating the ammonium uranium fluoride to a temperature at which dissociation occurs with liberation of ammonium fluoride. Preferably the process is carried out under reduced pressure, or in a current of an inert gas.

Effect of chlorine in clay-mineral specimens prepared on silver metal-membrane mounts for X-ray powder diffraction analysis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Poppe, L.J.; Commeau, J.A.; Pense, G.M.

1989-01-01

Silver metal-membrane filters are commonly used as substrates in the preparation of oriented clay-mineral specimens for X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). They are relatively unaffected by organic solvent treatments and specimens can be prepared rapidly. The filter mounts are adaptable to automatic sample changers, have few discrete reflections at higher 20 angles, and, because of the high atomic number of silver, produce a relatively low overall background compared with other membrane filters, such as cellulose (Poppe and Hathaway, 1979). The silver metal-membrane filters, however, present some problems after heat treatment if either the filters or the samples contain significant amounts of chlorine. At elevated temperature, the chloride ions react with the silver substrate to form crystalline compounds. These compounds change the mass-absorption coefficient of the sample, reducing peak intensities and areas and, therefore, complicating the semiquantitative estimation of clay minerals. A simple procedure that eliminates most of the chloride from a sample and the silver metal-membrane substrate is presented here.

Purification of Hydrogen

DOEpatents

Newton, A S

1950-12-05

Disclosed is a process for purifying hydrogen containing various gaseous impurities by passing the hydrogen over a large surface of uranium metal at a temperature above the decomposition temperature of uranium hydride, and below the decomposition temperature of the compounds formed by the combination of the uranium with the impurities in the hydrogen.

Uranium 5f shell in UPd2Al3 and URu2Si2 studied by x-ray magnetic circular dichroism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yaouanc, A.; Dalmas de Réotier, P.; van der Laan, G.; Hiess, A.; Goulon, J.; Neumann, C.; Lejay, P.; Sato, N.

1998-10-01

We report x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) measurements performed at the uranium M4,5 edges in the paramagnetic phase of the heavy fermion superconductors UPd2Al3 and URu2Si2. The analysis of the spectra with the first sum rule yields the orbital moment of the 5f shell for both compounds. The shape of the dichroic spectrum at the M5 edge for the two compounds is qualitatively different: a single lobe is observed for URu2Si2 and two lobes are detected for UPd2Al3. This two lobe structure reflects the strong effect of the interaction of the uranium 5f electrons with their environment in the latter compound.

THERMAL DECOMPOSITION OF URANIUM COMPOUNDS

DOEpatents

Magel, T.T.; Brewer, L.

1959-02-10

A method is presented of preparing uranium metal of high purity consisting contacting impure U metal with halogen vapor at between 450 and 550 C to form uranium halide vapor, contacting the uranium halide vapor in the presence of H/sub 2/ with a refractory surface at about 1400 C to thermally decompose the uranium halides and deposit molten U on the refractory surface and collecting the molten U dripping from the surface. The entire operation is carried on at a sub-atmospheric pressure of below 1 mm mercury.

COATING URANIUM FROM CARBONYLS

DOEpatents

Gurinsky, D.H.; Storrs, S.S.

1959-07-14

Methods are described for making adherent corrosion resistant coatings on uranium metal. According to the invention, the uranium metal is heated in the presence of an organometallic compound such as the carbonyls of nickel, molybdenum, chromium, niobium, and tungsten at a temperature sufficient to decompose the metal carbonyl and dry plate the resultant free metal on the surface of the uranium metal body. The metal coated body is then further heated at a higher temperature to thermally diffuse the coating metal within the uranium bcdy.

Preparation and in vitro antimicrobial activity of silver-bearing degradable polymeric nanoparticles of polyphosphoester-block-poly(L-lactide).

PubMed

Lim, Young H; Tiemann, Kristin M; Heo, Gyu Seong; Wagers, Patrick O; Rezenom, Yohannes H; Zhang, Shiyi; Zhang, Fuwu; Youngs, Wiley J; Hunstad, David A; Wooley, Karen L

2015-02-24

The development of well-defined polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) as delivery carriers for antimicrobials targeting human infectious diseases requires rational design of the polymer template, an efficient synthetic approach, and fundamental understanding of the developed NPs, e.g., drug loading/release, particle stability, and other characteristics. Herein, we developed and evaluated the in vitro antimicrobial activity of silver-bearing, fully biodegradable and functional polymeric NPs. A series of degradable polymeric nanoparticles (dNPs), composed of phosphoester and L-lactide and designed specifically for silver loading into the hydrophilic shell and/or the hydrophobic core, were prepared as potential delivery carriers for three different types of silver-based antimicrobials-silver acetate or one of two silver carbene complexes (SCCs). Silver-loading capacities of the dNPs were not influenced by the hydrophilic block chain length, loading site (i.e., core or shell), or type of silver compound, but optimization of the silver feed ratio was crucial to maximize the silver loading capacity of dNPs, up to ca. 12% (w/w). The release kinetics of silver-bearing dNPs revealed 50% release at ca. 2.5-5.5 h depending on the type of silver compound. In addition, we undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the rates of hydrolytic or enzymatic degradability and performed structural characterization of the degradation products. Interestingly, packaging of the SCCs in the dNP-based delivery system improved minimum inhibitory concentrations up to 70%, compared with the SCCs alone, as measured in vitro against 10 contemporary epidemic strains of Staphylococcus aureus and eight uropathogenic strains of Escherichia coli. We conclude that these dNP-based delivery systems may be beneficial for direct epithelial treatment and/or prevention of ubiquitous bacterial infections, including those of the skin and urinary tract.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mokhtari, Narges; Daneshpajouh, Shahram; Seyedbagheri, Seyedali

This study has investigated different visible-light irradiation's effect on the formation of silver nanoparticles from silver nitrate using the culture supernatant of Klebsiella pneumonia. Our study shows that visible-light emission can significantly prompt the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Also, the study experimentally investigated the liquid mixing process effect on silver nanoparticle synthesis by visible-light irradiation. This study successfully synthesized uniformly dispersed silver nanoparticles with a uniform size and shape in the range of 1-6 nm with an average size of 3 nm. Furthermore, the study investigated the mechanism of the reduction of silver ions by culture supernatant of K. pneumonia,more » and used X-ray diffraction to characterize silver chloride as an intermediate compound. Silver chloride was prepared synthetically and used as a substrate for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles by culture supernatant of K. pneumonia. The silver nanoparticles have been prepared from silver chloride during this investigation for the first time.« less

METHOD FOR THE REDUCTION OF URANIUM COMPOUNDS

DOEpatents

Cooke, W.H.; Crawford, J.W.C.

1959-05-12

An improved technique of preparing massive metallic uranium by the reaction at elevated temperature between an excess of alkali in alkaline earth metal and a uranium halide, such ss uranium tetrafluoride is presented. The improvement comprises employing a reducing atmosphere of hydrogen or the like, such as coal gas, in the vessel during the reduction stage and then replacing the reducing atmosphere with argon gas prior to cooling to ambient temperature.

PROCESSES FOR SEPARATING AND RECOVERING CONSTITUENTS OF NEUTRON IRRADIATED URANIUM

DOEpatents

Connick, R.E.; Gofman, J.W.; Pimentel, G.C.

1959-11-10

Processes are described for preparing plutonium, particularly processes of separating plutonium from uranium and fission products in neutron-irradiated uraniumcontaining matter. Specifically, plutonium solutions containing uranium, fission products and other impurities are contacted with reducing agents such as sulfur dioxide, uranous ion, hydroxyl ammonium chloride, hydrogen peroxide, and ferrous ion whereby the plutoninm is reduced to its fluoride-insoluble state. The reduced plutonium is then carried out of solution by precipitating niobic oxide therein. Uranium and certain fission products remain behind in the solution. Certain other fission products precipitate along with the plutonium. Subsequently, the plutonium and fission product precipitates are redissolved, and the solution is oxidized with oxidizing agents such as chlorine, peroxydisulfate ion in the presence of silver ion, permanganate ion, dichromate ion, ceric ion, and a bromate ion, whereby plutonium is oxidized to the fluoride-soluble state. The oxidized solution is once again treated with niobic oxide, thus precipitating the contamirant fission products along with the niobic oxide while the oxidized plutonium remains in solution. Plutonium is then recovered from the decontaminated solution.

Microbial reduction of uranium

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lovley, D.R.; Phillips, E.J.P.; Gorby, Y.A.; Landa, E.R.

1991-01-01

REDUCTION of the soluble, oxidized form of uranium, U(VI), to insoluble U(IV) is an important mechanism for the immobilization of uranium in aquatic sediments and for the formation of some uranium ores1-10. U(VI) reduction has generally been regarded as an abiological reaction in which sulphide, molecular hydrogen or organic compounds function as the reductant1,2,5,11. Microbial involvement in U(VI) reduction has been considered to be limited to indirect effects, such as microbial metabolism providing the reduced compounds for abiological U(VI) reduction and microbial cell walls providing a surface to stimulate abiological U(VI) reduction1,12,13. We report here, however, that dissimilatory Fe(III)-reducing microorganisms can obtain energy for growth by electron transport to U(VI). This novel form of microbial metabolism can be much faster than commonly cited abiological mechanisms for U(VI) reduction. Not only do these findings expand the known potential terminal electron acceptors for microbial energy transduction, they offer a likely explanation for the deposition of uranium in aquatic sediments and aquifers, and suggest a method for biological remediation of environments contaminated with uranium.

From gold leaf to thermal neutrons: One hundred years of radioactivity and geological exploration (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howarth, R. J.

2010-12-01

In 1789 Klaproth extracted ‘Uranit,’ from shiny black ‘Bechblende’ ore obtained from the George Wagsfort silver mine at Johanngeorgenstadt in the Erzegebirge (Ore Mountains), Saxony, Germany. He believed it to be a new chemical element (but what he had obtained was actually an oxide; uranium was first isolated in its pure metallic form by Peligot in 1856, following an earlier attempt in 1841). By 1816 pitchblende had also been found in Hungary & Cornwall, England. In1871, an English metallurgist, Richard Pearce, visiting the USA, discovered two cwt. of pitchblende ‘thrown away on a refuse-heap’ at the Wood Mine, Gilpin Co., Colorado. He returned the following year and leased the mine, which subsequently supplied the ore to MMe. Curie. In 1867, Saint-Victor had noticed the blackening of silver halide emulsion by uranium compounds, but it was Becquerel who, in a series of experiments in 1896, first showed that they emitted a radiation which was not the same as that from a Crookes tube (X-rays). In 1898 both Mme Curie and Schmidt independently described the radioactivity of thorium and its compounds but she realised, from her electrometer experiments, that uranium minerals might contain a yet more active element than either U or Th. By the end of 1900, the U-decay series had been elucidated, and during 1903-4, a radioactive gas found to exist in soil, water, air and crude petroleum, was shown to be identical with radium ‘emanation.’ Wolcott (1904) suggested that it might be used to prospect for U and Th ores. Nevertheless, for the next 25 years, investigations were largely confined to the laboratory with instrumental development and studies of radiochemisty, mineralogy, autoradiography, pleochroic haloes and contemplating radioactive heating of the Earth. However, there were exceptions: In 1905 von dem Borne used electrometer measurements to locate veins of pitchblende in a mine, and Ambronn (1921) measured the activity of successive core samples taken down an oil well to make a down-hole radioactivity profile. Technical advances were rapidly reflected in prospecting on foot, by car, and in the air, with successive adoption of the electrometer (1927); the Geiger-Müller (1945), scintillation (1952) and Hare (1954) counters; and the gamma-spectrometer (1960). The modern era of well-logging began with the patenting by Fearon in 1937 of logs using gamma rays (discovered by Viellard, 1900; named by Rutherford, 1914) and neutrons (discovered by Chadwick, 1932), although the term ‘gamma ray log’ is reported as having first been used on 29 October 1938. A simultaneous gamma and neutron logging device was developed by Sherbatskoy in 1951. Neutron-gamma and gamma-gamma logs followed in the next two years and, by the time it was possible to undertake this with a single instrument (Monaghan 1961), further tools had been developed to attempt detection of both hydrocarbons and salt water in the formations passed through. One-hundred years after Pearce’s discovery, the Thermal Neutron Decay Time Log was introduced; the marriage of radioactivity and geology had truly come of age.

An evaluation of health risk to the public as a consequence of in situ uranium mining in Wyoming, USA

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ruedig, Elizabeth; Johnson, Thomas E.

In the United States there is considerable public concern regarding the health effects of in situ recovery uranium mining. These concerns focus principally on exposure to contaminants mobilized in groundwater by the mining process. However, the risk arising as a result of mining must be viewed in light of the presence of naturally occurring uranium ore and other constituents which comprise a latent hazard. The United States Environmental Protection Agency recently proposed new guidelines for successful restoration of an in situ uranium mine by limiting concentrations of thirteen groundwater constituents: arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, selenium, silver, nitrate (asmore » nitrogen), molybdenum, radium, total uranium, and gross α activity. We investigated the changes occurring to these constituents at an ISR uranium mine in Wyoming, USA by comparing groundwater quality at baseline measurement to that at stability (post-restoration) testing. Of the groundwater constituents considered, only uranium and radium-226 showed significant (p < 0.05) deviation from site-wide baseline conditions in matched-wells. Uranium concentrations increased by a factor of 5.6 (95% CI 3.6–8.9 times greater) while radium-226 decreased by a factor of about one half (95% CI 0.42–0.75 times less). Change in risk was calculated using the RESRAD (onsite) code for an individual exposed as a resident-farmer; total radiation dose to a resident farmer decreased from pre-to post-mining by about 5.2 mSv y –1. As a result, higher concentrations of uranium correspond to increased biomarkers of nephrotoxicity, however the clinical significance of this increase is unclear.« less

An evaluation of health risk to the public as a consequence of in situ uranium mining in Wyoming, USA

DOE PAGES

Ruedig, Elizabeth; Johnson, Thomas E.

2015-08-30

In the United States there is considerable public concern regarding the health effects of in situ recovery uranium mining. These concerns focus principally on exposure to contaminants mobilized in groundwater by the mining process. However, the risk arising as a result of mining must be viewed in light of the presence of naturally occurring uranium ore and other constituents which comprise a latent hazard. The United States Environmental Protection Agency recently proposed new guidelines for successful restoration of an in situ uranium mine by limiting concentrations of thirteen groundwater constituents: arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, selenium, silver, nitrate (asmore » nitrogen), molybdenum, radium, total uranium, and gross α activity. We investigated the changes occurring to these constituents at an ISR uranium mine in Wyoming, USA by comparing groundwater quality at baseline measurement to that at stability (post-restoration) testing. Of the groundwater constituents considered, only uranium and radium-226 showed significant (p < 0.05) deviation from site-wide baseline conditions in matched-wells. Uranium concentrations increased by a factor of 5.6 (95% CI 3.6–8.9 times greater) while radium-226 decreased by a factor of about one half (95% CI 0.42–0.75 times less). Change in risk was calculated using the RESRAD (onsite) code for an individual exposed as a resident-farmer; total radiation dose to a resident farmer decreased from pre-to post-mining by about 5.2 mSv y –1. As a result, higher concentrations of uranium correspond to increased biomarkers of nephrotoxicity, however the clinical significance of this increase is unclear.« less

An evaluation of health risk to the public as a consequence of in situ uranium mining in Wyoming, USA.

PubMed

Ruedig, Elizabeth; Johnson, Thomas E

2015-12-01

In the United States there is considerable public concern regarding the health effects of in situ recovery uranium mining. These concerns focus principally on exposure to contaminants mobilized in groundwater by the mining process. However, the risk arising as a result of mining must be viewed in light of the presence of naturally occurring uranium ore and other constituents which comprise a latent hazard. The United States Environmental Protection Agency recently proposed new guidelines for successful restoration of an in situ uranium mine by limiting concentrations of thirteen groundwater constituents: arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, selenium, silver, nitrate (as nitrogen), molybdenum, radium, total uranium, and gross α activity. We investigated the changes occurring to these constituents at an ISR uranium mine in Wyoming, USA by comparing groundwater quality at baseline measurement to that at stability (post-restoration) testing. Of the groundwater constituents considered, only uranium and radium-226 showed significant (p < 0.05) deviation from site-wide baseline conditions in matched-wells. Uranium concentrations increased by a factor of 5.6 (95% CI 3.6-8.9 times greater) while radium-226 decreased by a factor of about one half (95% CI 0.42-0.75 times less). Change in risk was calculated using the RESRAD (onsite) code for an individual exposed as a resident-farmer; total radiation dose to a resident farmer decreased from pre-to post-mining by about 5.2 mSv y(-1). Higher concentrations of uranium correspond to increased biomarkers of nephrotoxicity, however the clinical significance of this increase is unclear. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Initial results from safety testing of US AGR-2 irradiation test fuel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morris, Robert Noel; Hunn, John D.; Baldwin, Charles A.

Two cylindrical compacts containing tristructural isotropic (TRISO)-coated particles with kernels that contained a mixture of uranium carbide and uranium oxide (UCO) and two compacts with UO 2-kernel TRISO particles have undergone 1600°C safety testing. These compacts were irradiated in the US Advanced Gas Reactor Fuel Development and Qualification Program's second irradiation test (AGR-2). The time-dependent releases of several radioisotopes ( 110mAg, 134Cs, 137Cs, 154Eu, 155Eu, 90Sr, and 85Kr) were monitored while heating the fuel specimens to 1600°C in flowing helium for 300 h. The UCO compacts behaved similarly to previously reported 1600°C-safety-tested UCO compacts from the AGR-1 irradiation. No failedmore » TRISO or failed SiC were detected (based on krypton and cesium release), and cesium release through intact SiC was very low. Release behavior of silver, europium, and strontium appeared to be dominated by inventory originally released through intact coating layers during irradiation but retained in the compact matrix until it was released during safety testing. Both UO 2 compacts exhibited cesium release from multiple particles whose SiC failed during the safety test. Europium and strontium release from these two UO 2 compacts appeared to be dominated by release from the particles with failed SiC. Silver release was characteristically like the release from the UCO compacts in that an initial release of the majority of silver trapped in the matrix occurred during ramping to 1600°C. However, additional silver release was observed later in the safety testing due to the UO 2 TRISO with failed SiC. Failure of the SiC layer in the UO 2 fuel appears to have been dominated by CO corrosion, as opposed to the palladium degradation observed in AGR-1 UCO fuel.« less

Initial results from safety testing of US AGR-2 irradiation test fuel

DOE PAGES

Morris, Robert Noel; Hunn, John D.; Baldwin, Charles A.; ...

2017-08-18

Two cylindrical compacts containing tristructural isotropic (TRISO)-coated particles with kernels that contained a mixture of uranium carbide and uranium oxide (UCO) and two compacts with UO 2-kernel TRISO particles have undergone 1600°C safety testing. These compacts were irradiated in the US Advanced Gas Reactor Fuel Development and Qualification Program's second irradiation test (AGR-2). The time-dependent releases of several radioisotopes ( 110mAg, 134Cs, 137Cs, 154Eu, 155Eu, 90Sr, and 85Kr) were monitored while heating the fuel specimens to 1600°C in flowing helium for 300 h. The UCO compacts behaved similarly to previously reported 1600°C-safety-tested UCO compacts from the AGR-1 irradiation. No failedmore » TRISO or failed SiC were detected (based on krypton and cesium release), and cesium release through intact SiC was very low. Release behavior of silver, europium, and strontium appeared to be dominated by inventory originally released through intact coating layers during irradiation but retained in the compact matrix until it was released during safety testing. Both UO 2 compacts exhibited cesium release from multiple particles whose SiC failed during the safety test. Europium and strontium release from these two UO 2 compacts appeared to be dominated by release from the particles with failed SiC. Silver release was characteristically like the release from the UCO compacts in that an initial release of the majority of silver trapped in the matrix occurred during ramping to 1600°C. However, additional silver release was observed later in the safety testing due to the UO 2 TRISO with failed SiC. Failure of the SiC layer in the UO 2 fuel appears to have been dominated by CO corrosion, as opposed to the palladium degradation observed in AGR-1 UCO fuel.« less

Soda-based glass fabricated from Thailand quartz sands doped with silver compound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Won-in, Krit; Dararutana, Pisutti

2012-10-01

Yellow colored glass which used for luxury art glass in ancient time was fabricated by the addition of silver compound into the molten glass. It was proved that it was actually silver nanoparticle technology. In this work, the SiO2-(Na2O,K2O)-CaO-B2O3-Al2O3-MgO glass system was prepared in the laboratory scale based on local quartz sands from Trat Province, eastern area of Thailand as the silica raw material. Various concentrations of silver nitrate were added. After the complete conventional melting process, the bubble-free yellow glasses were yielded. Physical and optical properties such as density, refractive index and optical absorption spectra were measured. Scanning electron microscope coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy was carried out to study their morphology. The refractive indices and densities were increased as the increase of the silver contents. Electron micrographs showed the presence of silver nanoparticle in the glass matrix. UV-VIS spectra were in good agreement with that found from SEM measurements and corresponded with the universally accepted. It was also showed that the more brilliance on the surface of the glass products was obtained after firing with a gas torch.

Galvanic cell for processing of used nuclear fuel

DOEpatents

Garcia-Diaz, Brenda L.; Martinez-Rodriguez, Michael J.; Gray, Joshua R.; Olson, Luke C.

2017-02-07

A galvanic cell and methods of using the galvanic cell is described for the recovery of uranium from used nuclear fuel according to an electrofluorination process. The galvanic cell requires no input energy and can utilize relatively benign gaseous fluorinating agents. Uranium can be recovered from used nuclear fuel in the form of gaseous uranium compound such as uranium hexafluoride, which can then be converted to metallic uranium or UO.sub.2 and processed according to known methodology to form a useful product, e.g., fuel pellets for use in a commercial energy production system.

Electrochemical fluorination for processing of used nuclear fuel

DOEpatents

Garcia-Diaz, Brenda L.; Martinez-Rodriguez, Michael J.; Gray, Joshua R.; Olson, Luke C.

2016-07-05

A galvanic cell and methods of using the galvanic cell is described for the recovery of uranium from used nuclear fuel according to an electrofluorination process. The galvanic cell requires no input energy and can utilize relatively benign gaseous fluorinating agents. Uranium can be recovered from used nuclear fuel in the form of gaseous uranium compound such as uranium hexafluoride, which can then be converted to metallic uranium or UO.sub.2 and processed according to known methodology to form a useful product, e.g., fuel pellets for use in a commercial energy production system.

Synthesis of actinide nitrides, phosphides, sulfides and oxides

DOEpatents

Van Der Sluys, William G.; Burns, Carol J.; Smith, David C.

1992-01-01

A process of preparing an actinide compound of the formula An.sub.x Z.sub.y wherein An is an actinide metal atom selected from the group consisting of thorium, uranium, plutonium, neptunium, and americium, x is selected from the group consisting of one, two or three, Z is a main group element atom selected from the group consisting of nitrogen, phosphorus, oxygen and sulfur and y is selected from the group consisting of one, two, three or four, by admixing an actinide organometallic precursor wherein said actinide is selected from the group consisting of thorium, uranium, plutonium, neptunium, and americium, a suitable solvent and a protic Lewis base selected from the group consisting of ammonia, phosphine, hydrogen sulfide and water, at temperatures and for time sufficient to form an intermediate actinide complex, heating said intermediate actinide complex at temperatures and for time sufficient to form the actinide compound, and a process of depositing a thin film of such an actinide compound, e.g., uranium mononitride, by subliming an actinide organometallic precursor, e.g., a uranium amide precursor, in the presence of an effectgive amount of a protic Lewis base, e.g., ammonia, within a reactor at temperatures and for time sufficient to form a thin film of the actinide compound, are disclosed.

Metallo-organic decomposition films

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gallagher, B. D.

1985-01-01

A summary of metallo-organic deposition (MOD) films for solar cells was presented. The MOD materials are metal ions compounded with organic radicals. The technology is evolving quickly for solar cell metallization. Silver compounds, especially silver neodecanoate, were developed which can be applied by thick-film screening, ink-jet printing, spin-on, spray, or dip methods. Some of the advantages of MOD are: high uniform metal content, lower firing temperatures, decomposition without leaving a carbon deposit or toxic materials, and a film that is stable under ambient conditions. Molecular design criteria were explained along with compounds formulated to date, and the accompanying reactions for these compounds. Phase stability and the other experimental and analytic results of MOD films were presented.

Dendrimer encapsulated Silver nanoparticles as novel catalysts for reduction of aromatic nitro compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asharani, I. V.; Thirumalai, D.; Sivakumar, A.

2017-11-01

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) core dendrimer encapsulated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized through normal chemical reduction method, where dendrimer acts as reducing and stabilizing agent. The encapsulated AgNPs were well characterized using TEM, DLS and XPS techniques. The synthesized AgNPs showed excellent catalytic activity towards the reduction of aromatic nitro compounds with sodium borohydride as reducing agent and the results substantiate that dendrimer encapsulated AgNPs can be an effective catalyst for the substituted nitro aromatic reduction reactions. Also the kinetics of different nitro compounds reductions was studied and presented.

Exploratory Solid-State Synthesis of Uranium Chalcogenides and Mixed Anion Uranium Chalcogenides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ward, Matthew David

Several uranium chalcogenides and mixed anion uranium chalcogenides have been synthesized by solid-state synthetic methods. Structural determinations were carried out via single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Some of these compounds have been further characterized by magnetic measurements, optical properties measurements, Raman spectroscopy, resistivity measurements, XANES and XPS. Eight compounds of the composition MU8Q17 were synthesized and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. All of these compounds crystallize in the CrU8S17 structure type. XANES measurements indicate that ScU8S17 contains Sc3+ and must be charge balanced with some amount of U 3+. Two compounds of the composition ATiU3Te9 crystallize as black rectangular plates. From single-crystal magnetic measurements, CsTiU 3Te9 is consistent with antiferromagnetic coupling between magnetic U atoms. The uranium chalcogenide compounds NiUS3 and Cr4US 8 were synthesized from reaction of the elements in various fluxes. NiUS3 crystallizes in the GdFeO3 structure type. Cr 4US8 crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group D - Pnma and its structure is related to that of Li4UF 8. The compounds Rh2U6S15, Cs 2Ti2U6Se15, and Cs2Cr 2U6Se15 crystallize as black prisms in the cubic space group O-Im3m. Magnetic measurements on Cs 2Cr2U6Se15 give a value for the Weiss temperature, θWeiss, of 57.59 K, indicative of ferromagnetic coupling. Black plates of CsScU(Se2)Se3 were synthesized from the reaction of the elements in a CsCl flux. CsScU(Se2)Se 3 crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group D- Cmcm . Magnetic susceptibility measurements on CsScU(Se2)Se 3 indicate three regions of magnetic response. The uranium double salt Cs5[U2(μ-S 2)2Cl8]I crystallizes as red plates. Cs 5[U2(μ-S2)2Cl 8]I displays optical anisotropy with band gap energies of 1.99 eV and 2.08 eV along the [001] and [100] polarizations. The uranium oxychalcogenides U7O2Se12 and Na2Ba2(UO2)S4 were synthesized by intentional oxygen contamination. The structure of U7O 2Se12 is related to the previously reported U7Q 12. Na2Ba2(UO2)S4 contains isolated uranyl polyhedra in which each uranium atom may be assigned an oxidation state of +6. The four uranium(IV) chlorophosphates, UCl4(POCl3), [U2Cl9][PCl4], UCl3(PO2Cl 2), and U2Cl8(POCl3) were synthesized in an effort to synthesize new novel uranyl sulfides. All are unstable, but UCl4(POCl3) is the thermodynamically favorable phase.

A Multireference Density Functional Approach to the Calculation of the Excited States of Uranium Ions

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

approach. xiv A MULTIREFERENCE DENSITY FUNCTIONAL APPROACH TO THE CALCULATION OF THE EXCITED STATES OF URANIUM IONS I. Introduction Actinide chemistry, in...oxidation state of the uranium atom. Uranium, like most early actinides , can possess a wide range of oxidation states, ranging from +3 to +6, due in part...in predicting the electronic spectra for heavy element compounds. The first difficulty is that relativistic effects for actinides are significant

RECOVERY OF URANIUM FROM PITCHBLENDE

DOEpatents

Ruehle, A.E.

1958-06-24

The decontamination of uranium from molybdenum is described. When acid solutions containing uranyl nitrate are contacted with ether for the purpose of extracting the uranium values, complex molybdenum compounds are coextracted with the uranium and also again back-extracted from the ether with the uranium. This invention provides a process for extracting uranium in which coextraction of molybdenum is avoided. It has been found that polyhydric alcohols form complexes with molybdenum which are preferentially water-soluble are taken up by the ether extractant to only a very minor degree. The preferred embodiment of the process uses mannitol, sorbitol or a mixture of the two as the complexing agent.

Efficient synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Prosopis juliflora leaf extract and its antimicrobial activity using sewage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raja, K.; Saravanakumar, A.; Vijayakumar, R.

2012-11-01

In this paper, aqueous extract of fresh leaves of Prosopis juliflora was used for the synthesis of silver (Ag) nanoparticles. UV-Vis spectroscopy studies were carried out to asses silver nanoparticles formation within 5 min, scanning electron microscopic was used to characterize shape of the Ag nanoparticles, X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the nanoparticles as crystalline silver and facecentered cubic type and Fourier transform infra-red assed that shows biomolecule compounds which are responsible for reduction and capping material of silver nanoparticles. The anti microbial activity of silver nanoparticle was performed using sewage. The approach of plant-mediated synthesis appears to be cost efficient, eco-friendly and easy methods.

Quantifying uranium transport rates and storage of fluvially eroded mine tailings from a historic mine site in the Grand Canyon Region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skalak, K.; Benthem, A. J.; Walton-Day, K. E.; Jolly, G.

2015-12-01

The Grand Canyon region contains a large number of breccia pipes with economically viable uranium, copper, and silver concentrations. Mining in this region has occurred since the late 19th century and has produced ore and waste rock having elevated levels of uranium and other contaminants. Fluvial transport of these contaminants from mine sites is a possibility, as this arid region is susceptible to violent storms and flash flooding which might erode and mobilize ore or waste rock. In order to assess and manage the risks associated with uranium mining, it is important to understand the transport and storage rates of sediment and uranium within the ephemeral streams of this region. We are developing a 1-dimensional sediment transportation model to examine uranium transport and storage through a typical canyon system in this region. Our study site is Hack Canyon Mine, a uranium and copper mine site, which operated in the 1980's and is currently experiencing fluvial erosion of its waste rock repository. The mine is located approximately 40km upstream from the Colorado River and is in a deep, narrow canyon with a small watershed. The stream is ephemeral for the upper half of its length and sediment is primarily mobilized during flash flood events. We collected sediment samples at 110 locations longitudinally through the river system to examine the distribution of uranium in the stream. Samples were sieved to the sand size and below fraction (<2mm) and uranium was measured by gamma-ray spectroscopy. Sediment storage zones were also examined in the upper 8km of the system to determine where uranium is preferentially stored in canyon systems. This information will quantify the downstream transport of constituents associated with the Hack Canyon waste rock and contribute to understanding the risks associated with fluvial mobilization of uranium mine waste.

[Exposure to metal compounds in occupational galvanic processes].

PubMed

Surgiewicz, Jolanta; Domański, Wojciech

2006-01-01

Occupational galvanic processes are provided in more than 600 small and medium enterprises in Poland. Workers who deal with galvanic coating are exposed to heavy metal compounds: tin, silver, copper and zinc. Some of them are carcinogenic, for example, hexavalent chromium compounds, nickel and cadmium compounds. Research covered several tens of workstations involved in chrome, nickel, zinc, tin, silver, copper and cadmium plating. Compounds of metals present in the air were determined: Cr, Ni, Cd, Sn, Ag--by atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomization (ET-AAS) and Zn--by atomic absorption spectrometry with flame atomization (F-AAS). The biggest metal concentrations--of silver and copper--were found at workstations of copper, brass, cadmium, nickel and chrome plating, conducted at the same time. Significant concentrations of copper were found at workstations of maintenance bathing and neutralizing of sewage. The concentrations of metals did not exceed Polish MAC values. MAC values were not exceeded for carcinogenic chromium(VI), nickel or cadmium, either. In galvanic processes there was no hazard related to single metals or their compounds, even carcinogenic ones. Combined exposure indicators for metals at each workstation did not exceed 1, either. However, if there are even small quantities of carcinogenic agents, health results should always be taken into consideration.

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using bark extracts of Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub. and study of their antimicrobial activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Manoja; Smita, Soumya Shuvra

2018-03-01

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles was achieved using bark extract of Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub., a native plant of Indian subcontinent and southeast Asia. The plant parts are familiar for ailment of different diseases. The bioactive compounds present in bark of the plant were extracted with Soxhlet extractor. Silver nitrate (AgNO3) was used as a raw material for preparation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The ratio of bark extract and silver nitrate solution for synthesis of AgNPs was standardized as 3:5. The change in colour of the solution from pale yellow to deep brown can be correlated to reduction reaction catalyzed by plant bioactive compounds. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) maxima, λmax, were recorded at 452 nm. SPR indicates the nature and type of particles present in the solution. The suitable concentration of AgNO3 was found to be 10 mM to carry out reduction reaction with the bark extract. Alkaline environment (pH 9) suitably promotes the reaction. FTIR graph of synthesized AgNPs shows the shifting peak of 3265.0 wavelength/cm and 1635.40 wavelength/cm indicates that AgNPs were coated with plant biomolecules, which is attributed to the stabilization of AgNPs. XRD and SEM photograph of the AgNPs showed that they were spherical in shape and capped with bioactive compounds. Thus, the synthesized AgNPs are more stable, less toxic and homogenous in shape. The average diameter of the nanoparticles was 81 nm. The synthesized AgNPs had efficacy against a Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli), a Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), and a mold (Aspergillus niger). The maximum conversion was 66%. From the present investigation, it can be concluded that the bioactive compounds present in the bark of Butea have the capacity to reduce silver ion into silver nanoparticles in aqueous condition and the synthesized AgNPs are stabilized and loss toxic. Moreover, they also possess antimicrobial properties against human pathogens.

In vitro evaluation of acaricidal activity of novel green silver nanoparticles against deltamethrin resistance Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus.

PubMed

Avinash, B; Venu, R; Alpha Raj, M; Srinivasa Rao, K; Srilatha, Ch; Prasad, T N V K V

2017-04-15

An investigation was undertaken to study, for the first time, in vitro acaricidal activity of green silver nanoparticles on deltamethrin resistance Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. The compounds tested were neem coated silver nanoparticles (N-Ag NPs), deltamethrin neem coated silver nanoparticles (DN-Ag NPs), 2, 3 dehydrosalannol (2,3 DHS), 2, 3 DHS coated silver nanoparticles (2, 3-DHS-Ag NPs), Quercetin dihydrate (QDH) and QDH coated silver nanoparticles (QDH-Ag NPs). Also included in this study, for the purpose of comparison, were neem leaf extract (NLE), silver nitrate (AgNO 3 ) and deltamethrin (D). Acaricidal activity on larvae and adults of R. (B.) microplus was tested by larval packet test (LPT) and adult immersion test (AIT) respectively. In the LPT, 100% mortality was obtained at concentrations (ppm) of 360, 6000, 260, 200, 50, 300, 85, 600 and 200 for the compounds, D, NLE, Ag NO 3 , N-Ag NPs, DN-Ag NPs, 2, 3 DHS, 2, 3 DHS-Ag NPs, QDH, QDH-Ag NPs respectively. In AIT, the proportions of mortality and oviposition inhibition were proportionate but the reproductive index was inversely proportional to the concentration of the compounds used. The effect of DN-Ag NPs on mortality was the highest (93.33%) at 50ppm concentration. The mean reproductive index (0.01) and oviposition inhibition (99.16%) values were statistically significant when compared to control group. DN-Ag NPs showed significantly (P<0.05) lower LC 50 (3.87ppm; 21.95ppm) and LC 99 (53.05ppm; 90.06ppm) values against both the larvae and adults of R. (B.) microplus. The oviposition inhibiting ability of various compounds was determined to assess the reproductive performance of adult female ticks. The DN-Ag NPs had potent oviposition inhibitory activity with significantly lower IC 50 and IC 99 values compared to the rest of the treatments at 0.034 and 51.07ppm respectively. These results showed that the DN-Ag NPs had significant acaricidal activity against R. (B.) microplus. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Kinetic study of the thermal decomposition of uranium metaphosphate, U(PO3)4, into uranium pyrophosphate, UP2O7

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Hee-Chul; Kim, Hyung-Ju; Lee, Si-Young; Yang, In-Hwan; Chung, Dong-Yong

2017-06-01

The thermochemical properties of uranium compounds have attracted much interest in relation to thermochemical treatments and the safe disposal of radioactive waste bearing uranium compounds. The characteristics of the thermal decomposition of uranium metaphosphate, U(PO3)4, into uranium pyrophosphate, UP2O7, have been studied from the view point of reaction kinetics and acting mechanisms. A mixture of U(PO3)4 and UP2O7 was prepared from the pyrolysis residue of uranium-bearing spent TBP. A kinetic analysis of the reaction of U(PO3)4 into UP2O7 was conducted using an isoconversional method and a master plot method on the basis of data from a non-isothermal thermogravimetric analysis. The thermal decomposition of U(PO3)4 into UP2O7 followed a single-step reaction with an activation energy of 175.29 ± 1.58 kJ mol-1. The most probable kinetic model was determined as a type of nucleation and nuclei-growth models, the Avrami-Erofeev model (A3), which describes that there are certain restrictions on nuclei growth of UP2O7 during the solid-state decomposition of U(PO3)4.

Large magnetoresistance in non-magnetic silver chalcogenides and new class of magnetoresistive compounds

DOEpatents

Saboungi, Marie-Louis; Price, David C. L.; Rosenbaum, Thomas F.; Xu, Rong; Husmann, Anke

2001-01-01

The heavily-doped silver chalcogenides, Ag.sub.2+.delta. Se and Ag.sub.2+.delta. Te, show magnetoresistance effects on a scale comparable to the "colossal" magnetoresistance (CMR) compounds. Hall coefficient, magnetoconductivity, and hydrostatic pressure experiments establish that elements of narrow-gap semiconductor physics apply, but both the size of the effects at room temperature and the linear field dependence down to fields of a few Oersteds are surprising new features.

A DFT study on photoinduced surface catalytic coupling reactions on nanostructured silver: selective formation of azobenzene derivatives from para-substituted nitrobenzene and aniline.

PubMed

Zhao, Liu-Bin; Huang, Yi-Fan; Liu, Xiu-Min; Anema, Jason R; Wu, De-Yin; Ren, Bin; Tian, Zhong-Qun

2012-10-05

We propose that aromatic nitro and amine compounds undergo photochemical reductive and oxidative coupling, respectively, to specifically produce azobenzene derivatives which exhibit characteristic Raman signals related to the azo group. A photoinduced charge transfer model is presented to explain the transformations observed in para-substituted ArNO(2) and ArNH(2) on nanostructured silver due to the surface plasmon resonance effect. Theoretical calculations show that the initial reaction takes place through excitation of an electron from the filled level of silver to the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of an adsorbed ArNO(2) molecule, and from the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) of an adsorbed ArNH(2) molecule to the unoccupied level of silver, during irradiation with visible light. The para-substituted ArNO(2)(-)˙ and ArNH(2)(+)˙ surface species react further to produce the azobenzene derivatives. Our results may provide a new strategy for the syntheses of aromatic azo dyes from aromatic nitro and amine compounds based on the use of nanostructured silver as a catalyst.

ITALIAN PEAK AND ITALIAN PEAK MIDDLE ROADLESS AREAS, IDAHO AND MONTANA.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Skipp, Betty; Lambeth, Robert H.

1984-01-01

The Italian Peak and Italian Peak Middle Roadless Areas, in southwestern Montana and east-central Idaho, contain areas of probable mineral-resource potential based on combined geologic, geophysical, and geochemical studies and prospect examination. Small areas along the western, southern, and northeastern boundaries of the roadless areas have probable mineral resource potential for zinc, lead, silver, and uranium. An area of probable resource potential just east of and including a part of the Birch Creek mining district, may contain stratabound and fault-controlled silver and base metals, even though geochemical anomalies are low, and extensive prospecting has not identified any significant mineralization. The roadless areas are a part of the overthrust belt, and oil and gas possibilities must be assessed.

DIFFERENTIAL THERMOMETRIC TITRATIONS AND THE DETERMINATION OF HEATS OF REACTION,

DTIC Science & Technology

TITRATION , THERMISTORS), (*HEAT OF REACTION, TITRATION ), SILVER COMPOUNDS, NITRATES, AMMONIA, PYRIDINES, ETHYLENEDIAMINE, AMINES, ALCOHOLS, BUTANOLS, PROPANOLS, SODIUM COMPOUNDS, HYDROXIDES, TEST METHODS

Preparation and in vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Silver-Bearing Degradable Polymeric Nanoparticles of Polyphosphoester-block-Poly(L-lactide)

PubMed Central

Lim, Young H.; Tiemann, Kristin M.; Heo, Gyu Seong; Wagers, Patrick O.; Rezenom, Yohannes H.; Zhang, Shiyi; Zhang, Fuwu; Youngs, Wiley J.; Hunstad, David A.; Wooley, Karen L.

2015-01-01

The development of well-defined polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) as delivery carriers for antimicrobials targeting human infectious diseases requires rational design of the polymer template, an efficient synthetic approach and fundamental understanding of the developed NPs, e.g., drug loading/release, particle stability, and other characteristics. Herein, we developed and evaluated the in vitro antimicrobial activity of silver-bearing, fully biodegradable and functional polymeric NPs. A series of degradable polymeric nanoparticles (dNPs), composed of phosphoester and L-lactide and designed specifically for silver loading into the hydrophilic shell and/or the hydrophobic core, were prepared as potential delivery carriers for three different types of silver-based antimicrobials – silver acetate or one of two silver carbene complexes (SCCs). Silver-loading capacities of the dNPs were not influenced by the hydrophilic block chain length, loading site (i.e., core or shell), or type of silver compound, but optimization of the silver feed ratio was crucial to maximize the silver loading capacity of dNPs, up to ca. 12% (w/w). The release kinetics of silver-bearing dNPs revealed 50% release at ca. 2.5–5.5 h depending on the type of silver compound. In addition, we undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the rates of hydrolytic or enzymatic degradability and performed structural characterization of the degradation products. Interestingly, packaging of the SCCs in the dNP-based delivery system improved minimum inhibitory concentrations up to 70%, compared with the SCCs alone, as measured in vitro against ten contemporary epidemic strains of Staphylococcus aureus and eight uropathogenic strains of Escherichia coli. We conclude that these dNP-based delivery systems may be beneficial for direct epithelial treatment and/or prevention of ubiquitous bacterial infections, including those of the skin and urinary tract. PMID:25621868

METHOD OF PROCESSING MONAZITE SAND

DOEpatents

Calkins, G.D.

1957-10-29

A method is given for the pretreatment of monazite sand with sodium hydroxide. When momazite sand is reacted with sodium hydroxide, the thorium, uranium, and rare earths are converted to water-insoluble hydrous oxides; but in the case of uranium, the precipitate compound may at least partly consist of a slightly soluble uranate. According to the patent, monazite sand is treated with an excess of aqueous sodium hydroxide solution, and the insoluble compounds of thorium, uranium, and the rare earths are separated from the aqueous solution. This solution is then concentrated causing sodium phosphate to crystallize out. The crystals are removed from the remaining solution, and the solution is recycled for reaction with a mew supply of momazite sand.

NUCLEAR REACTOR FUEL ELEMENT AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE

DOEpatents

Brooks, H.

1960-04-26

A description is given for a fuel element comprising a body of uranium metal or an uranium compound dispersed in a matrix material made from magnesium, calcium, or barium and a stainless steel jacket enclosing the body.

Reconnaissance for trace elements in North Dakota and eastern Montana. Part 1. Geology and radioactivity. Part 2. Reserves and summary

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wyant, Donald G.; Beroni, Ernest P.

1950-01-01

The exact mode of origin of the uranium in the lignite is not known. Uranium may have accumulated in swamps at the same time as the organic debris, or it may have been introduced by ground water after the formation of lignite. In either case carbon or carbon compounds apparently caused the precipitation or fixation of uranium. Further work is needed to determine the origin of this type of uranium deposit.

LIQUID PHASE SINTERING OF METALLIC CARBIDES

DOEpatents

Hammond, J.; Sease, J.D.

1964-01-21

An improved method is given for fabricating uranium carbide composites, The method comprises forming a homogeneous mixture of powdered uranium carbide, a uranium intermetallic compound which wets and forms a eutectic with said carbide and has a non-uranium component which has a relatively high vapor pressure at a temperature in the range 1200 to 1500 deg C, and an organic binder, pressing said mixture to a composite of desired green strength, and then vacuum sintering said composite at the eutectic forming temperature for a period sufficient to remove at least a portion of the non-uranium containing component of said eutectic. (AEC)

Electrically Conductive Silver Paste Obtained by Use of Silver Neodecanoate as Precursor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Longguang; Liu, Jianguo; Zeng, Xiaoyan; Ren, Zhao

2015-02-01

An electrically conductive silver paste has been prepared from an organometallic compound, silver neodecanoate, as silver precursor. The precursor was highly soluble in organic solvents and decomposed into metallic silver at low sintering temperatures (<200°C). Thermogravimetric analysis showed the silver content of the paste was approximately 25 wt.%. Viscosity studies indicated the paste was a pseudoplastic liquid with viscosity in the range 6.5-9 Pa s. The paste was compatible with the micro-pen direct-writing process, enabling production of silver lines on a substrate. The electrical resistivity of the silver lines was 9 × 10-6 Ω cm after sintering at 115°C for 60 min, 5.8 × 10-6 Ω cm when sintered at 150°C for 60 min, and 3 × 10-6 Ω cm when sintered above 300°C, values which are similar to those of bulk silver. Hence, the prepared paste can be successfully used on flexible substrates such as polymers.

Silver nanostructures in laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry and mass spectrometry imaging.

PubMed

Sekuła, Justyna; Nizioł, Joanna; Rode, Wojciech; Ruman, Tomasz

2015-09-21

Silver nanoparticles have been successfully applied as a matrix replacement for the laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LDI-ToF-MS). Nanoparticles, producing spectra with highly reduced chemical background in the low m/z region, are perfectly suited for low-molecular weight compound analysis and imaging. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can efficiently absorb ultraviolet laser radiation, transfer energy to the analyte and promote analyte desorption, but also constitute a source of silver ions suitable for analyte cationisation. This review provides an overview of the literature on silver nanomaterials as non-conventional desorption and ionization promoters in LDI-MS and mass spectrometry imaging.

PROCESS FOR RECOVERY OF URANIUM VALUES FROM IMPURE SOLUTIONS THEREOF

DOEpatents

Kilner, S.B.

1959-11-01

A process is presented for the recovery of uraninm values from impure solutions which are obtained, for example, by washing residual uranium salt or uranium metal deposits from stainless steel surfaces using an aqueous or certain acidic aqueous solutions. The solutions include uranyl and oxidized iron, chromium, nickel, and copper ions and may contain manganese, zinc, and silver ions. In accordance with one procedure. the uranyl ions are reduced to the uranous state, and the impurity ions are complexed with cyanide under acidic conditions. The solution is then treated with ammonium hydroxide or alkali metal hydroxide to precipitate uranous hydroxide away from the complexed impurity ions in the solution. Alternatively, an excess of alkali metal cyanide is added to the reduced solution until the solution becomes sufficiently alkaline for the uranons hydroxide to precipitate. An essential feature in operating the process is in maintaining the pH of the solution sufficiently acid during the complexing operation to prevent the precipitation of the impurity metal hydroxides.

Silver-Catalyzed Cyclopropanation of Alkenes Using N-Nosylhydrazones as Diazo Surrogates.

PubMed

Liu, Zhaohong; Zhang, Xinyu; Zanoni, Giuseppe; Bi, Xihe

2017-12-15

An efficient silver-catalyzed [2 + 1] cyclopropanation of sterically hindered internal alkenes with diazo compounds in which room-temperature-decomposable N-nosylhydrazones are used as diazo surrogates is reported. The unexpected unique catalytic activity of silver was ascribed to its dual role as a Lewis acid activating alkene substrates and as a transition metal forming silver carbenoids. A wide range of internal alkenes, including challenging diarylethenes, were suitable for this protocol, thereby affording a variety of cyclopropanes with high efficiency in a stereoselective manner under mild conditions.

Method of obtaining intensified image from developed photographic films and plates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Askins, B. S. (Inventor)

1978-01-01

A method is explained of obtaining intensified images from silver images on developed photographic films and plates. The steps involve converting silver of the developed film or plate to a radioactive compound by treatment with an aqueous alkaline solution of an organo-S35 compound; placing the treated film or plate in direct contact with a receiver film which is then exposed by radiation from the activated film; and developing and fixing the resulting intensified image on the receiver film.

Efficient synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Prosopis juliflora leaf extract and its antimicrobial activity using sewage.

PubMed

Raja, K; Saravanakumar, A; Vijayakumar, R

2012-11-01

In this paper, aqueous extract of fresh leaves of Prosopis juliflora was used for the synthesis of silver (Ag) nanoparticles. UV-Vis spectroscopy studies were carried out to asses silver nanoparticles formation within 5 min, scanning electron microscopic was used to characterize shape of the Ag nanoparticles, X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the nanoparticles as crystalline silver and facecentered cubic type and Fourier transform infra-red assed that shows biomolecule compounds which are responsible for reduction and capping material of silver nanoparticles. The anti microbial activity of silver nanoparticle was performed using sewage. The approach of plant-mediated synthesis appears to be cost efficient, eco-friendly and easy methods. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of Silver Nanoparticles on the Sorption Characteristics of La1 - x Ag x MnO3 ± y

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ostroushko, A. A.; Adamova, L. V.; Koveza, E. V.; Russkikh, O. V.; Kuznetsov, M. V.

2018-03-01

The effect silver nanoparticles have on the sorption characteristics of perovskite lanthanum manganite relative to methanol, benzene, and hexane vapors is studied by means of gravimetric equilibrium interval sorption. The state of silver particles is investigated using spectroscopic tools. Sorption data are compared to the catalytic activity in deep oxidation reactions of organic compounds over lanthanum manganite-based catalysts.

Process for producing an aggregate suitable for inclusion into a radiation shielding product

DOEpatents

Lessing, Paul A.; Kong, Peter C.

2000-01-01

The present invention is directed to methods for converting depleted uranium hexafluoride to a stable depleted uranium silicide in a one-step reaction. Uranium silicide provides a stable aggregate material that can be added to concrete to increase the density of the concrete and, consequently, shield gamma radiation. As used herein, the term "uranium silicide" is defined as a compound generically having the formula U.sub.x Si.sub.y, wherein the x represents the molecules of uranium and the y represent the molecules of silicon. In accordance with the present invention, uranium hexafluoride is converted to a uranium silicide by contacting the uranium hexafluoride with a silicon-containing material at a temperature in a range between about 1450.degree. C. and about 1750.degree. C. The stable depleted uranium silicide is included as an aggregate in a radiation shielding product, such as a concrete product.

U.S. Army Medical Department Journal, July-September 2006

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-01

Center from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. back pain, etc. Although statistics are currently and exposure to depleted uranium . By...Washington, DC. LTC Niebuhr is oil the staff of the Division of Preventive Medicine, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland...is "primarily concerned populations was found; leading Barber to interpret the with the valuable differences in people that result from findings, as

Argon/UF6 plasma exhaust gas reconstitution experiments using preheated fluorine and on-line diagnostics. [fissioning uranium plasma core reactor design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roman, W. C.

1979-01-01

The feasibility of employing a flowing, high-temperature, pure fluorine/UF6 regeneration system to efficiently convert a large fraction of the effluent plasma exhaust back to pure UF6 was demonstrated. The custom built T.O.F. mass spectrometer sampling system permitted on-line measurements of the UF6 concentration at different locations in the exhaust system. Negligible amounts ( 100 ppm) of UF6 were detected in the axial bypass exhaust duct and the exhaust ducts downstream of the cryogenic trap system used to collect the UF6, thus verifying the overall system efficiency over a range of operating conditions. Use of a porous Monel duct as part of the exhaust duct system, including provision for injection of pure fluorine, provided a viable technique to eliminate uranium compound residue on the inside surface of the exhaust ducts. Typical uranium compound mass deposition per unit area of duct was 2 micron g/sq cm. This porous duct technique is directly applicable to future uranium compound transfer exhaust systems. Throughout these experiments, additional basic data on the corrosion aspects of hot, pressurized UF6/fluorine were also accumulated.

United States-Gulf Cooperation Council Security Cooperation in a Multipolar World

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

including plu- tonium separation experiments, uranium enrichment and conversion experiments, and importing various uranium compounds.28 Subsequent...against political protest, a status shared with the two other remaining Arab monarchies, Morocco and Jordan . Geopolitically, the GCC as a region has...commitments, the UAE will not enrich uranium itself, relying instead on imported, enriched fuel. “Abu Dhabi Moves Ahead With Nuclear Program,” Middle

Hydrothermal synthesis of (C6N2H14)2(UVI2UIVO4F12), a mixed-valent one-dimensional uranium oxyfluoride.

PubMed

Allen, S; Barlow, S; Halasyamani, P S; Mosselmans, J F; O'Hare, D; Walker, S M; Walton, R I

2000-08-21

A new hybrid organic-inorganic mixed-valent uranium oxyfluoride, (C6N2H14)2(U3O4F12), UFO-17, has been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions using uranium dioxide as the uranium source, hydrofluoric acid as mineralizer, and 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane as template. The single-crystal X-ray structure was determined. Crystals of UFO-17 belonged to the orthorhombic space group Cmcm (no. 63), with a = 14.2660(15) A, b = 24.5130(10) A, c = 7.201(2) A, and Z = 4. The structure reveals parallel uranium-containing chains of two types: one type is composed of edge-sharing UO2F5 units; the other has a backbone of edge-sharing UF8 units, each sharing an edge with a pendant UO2F5 unit. Bond-valence calculations suggest the UF8 groups contain UIV, while the UO2F5 groups contain UVI. EXAFS data give results consistent with the single-crystal X-ray structure determination, while comparison of the uranium LIII-edge XANES of UFO-17 with that of related UIV and UVI compounds supports the oxidation-state assignment. Variable-temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements on UFO-17 and a range of related hybrid organic-inorganic uranium(IV) and uranium(VI) fluorides and oxyfluorides further support the formulation of UFO-17 as a mixed-valent UIV/UVI compound.

Comparison of the bacterial removal performance of silver nanoparticles and a polymer based quaternary amine functiaonalized silsesquioxane coated point-of-use ceramic water filters.

PubMed

Zhang, Hongyin; Oyanedel-Craver, Vinka

2013-09-15

This study compares the disinfection performance of ceramic water filters impregnated with two antibacterial compounds: silver nanoparticles and a polymer based quaternary amine functiaonalized silsesquioxane (poly(trihydroxysilyl) propyldimethyloctadecyl ammonium chloride (TPA)). This study evaluated these compounds using ceramic disks manufactures with clay obtained from a ceramic filter factory located in San Mateo Ixtatan, Guatemala. Instead of using full size ceramic water filters, manufactured 6.5 cm diameter ceramic water filter disks were used. Results showed that TPA can achieve a log bacterial reduction value of 10 while silver nanoparticles reached up to 2 log reduction using a initial concentration of bacteria of 10(10)-10(11)CFU/ml. Similarly, bacterial transport demonstrated that ceramic filter disks painted with TPA achieved a bacterial log reduction value of 6.24, which is about 2 log higher than the values obtained for disks painted with silver nanoparticles (bacterial log reduction value: 4.42). The release of both disinfectants from the ceramic materials to the treated water was determined measuring the effluent concentrations in each test performed. Regarding TPA, about 3% of the total mass applied to the ceramic disks was released in the effluent over 300 min, which is slightly lower than the release percentage for silver nanoparticles (4%). This study showed that TPA provides a comparable disinfection performance than silver nanoparticles in ceramic water filter. Another advantage of using TPA is the cost as the price of TPA is considerable lower than silver nanoparticles. In spite of the use of TPA in several medical related products, there is only partial information regarding the health risk associated with the ingestion of this compound. Additional long-term toxicological information for TPA should be evaluated before its future application in ceramic water filters. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sponge-like silver obtained by decomposition of silver nitrate hexamethylenetetramine complex

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Afanasiev, Pavel, E-mail: pavel.afanasiev@ircelyon.univ-lyon.fr

2016-07-15

Silver nitrate hexamethylenetetramine [Ag(NO{sub 3})·N{sub 4}(CH{sub 2}){sub 6}] coordination compound has been prepared via aqueous route and characterized by chemical analysis, XRD and electron microscopy. Decomposition of [Ag(NO{sub 3})·N{sub 4}(CH{sub 2}){sub 6}] under hydrogen and under inert has been studied by thermal analysis and mass spectrometry. Thermal decomposition of [Ag(NO{sub 3})·N{sub 4}(CH{sub 2}){sub 6}] proceeds in the range 200–250 °C as a self-propagating rapid redox process accompanied with the release of multiple gases. The decomposition leads to formation of sponge-like silver having hierarchical open pore system with pore size spanning from 10 µm to 10 nm. The as-obtained silver spongesmore » exhibited favorable activity toward H{sub 2}O{sub 2} electrochemical reduction, making them potentially interesting as non-enzyme hydrogen peroxide sensors. - Graphical abstract: Thermal decomposition of silver nitrate hexamethylenetetramine coordination compound [Ag(NO{sub 3})·N{sub 4}(CH{sub 2}){sub 6}] leads to sponge like silver that possesses open porous structure and demonstrates interesting properties as an electrochemical hydrogen peroxide sensor. Display Omitted - Highlights: • [Ag(NO{sub 3})·N{sub 4}(CH{sub 2}){sub 6}] orthorhombic phase prepared and characterized. • Decomposition of [Ag(NO{sub 3})·N{sub 4}(CH{sub 2}){sub 6}] leads to metallic silver sponge with opened porosity. • Ag sponge showed promising properties as a material for hydrogen peroxide sensors.« less

Silver Coordination Polymers for Prevention of Implant Infection: Thiol Interaction, Impact on Respiratory Chain Enzymes, and Hydroxyl Radical Induction▿ †

PubMed Central

Gordon, Oliver; Vig Slenters, Tünde; Brunetto, Priscilla S.; Villaruz, Amer E.; Sturdevant, Daniel E.; Otto, Michael; Landmann, Regine; Fromm, Katharina M.

2010-01-01

Prosthetic joint replacements are used increasingly to alleviate pain and improve mobility of the progressively older and more obese population. Implant infection occurs in about 5% of patients and entails significant morbidity and high social costs. It is most often caused by staphylococci, which are introduced perioperatively. They are a source of prolonged seeding and difficult to treat due to antibiotic resistance; therefore, infection prevention by prosthesis coating with nonantibiotic-type anti-infective substances is indicated. A renewed interest in topically used silver has fostered development of silver nanoparticles, which, however, present a potential health hazard. Here we present new silver coordination polymer networks with tailored physical and chemical properties as nanostructured coatings on metallic implant substrates. These compounds exhibited strong biofilm sugar-independent bactericidal activity on in vitro-grown biofilms and prevented murine Staphylococcus epidermidis implant infection in vivo with slow release of silver ions and limited transient leukocyte cytotoxicity. Furthermore, we describe the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of silver ion action by gene screening and by targeting cell metabolism of S. epidermidis at different levels. We demonstrate that silver ions inactivate enzymes by binding sulfhydryl (thiol) groups in amino acids and promote the release of iron with subsequent hydroxyl radical formation by an indirect mechanism likely mediated by reactive oxygen species. This is the first report investigating the global metabolic effects of silver in the context of a therapeutic application. We anticipate that the compounds presented here open a new treatment field with a high medical impact. PMID:20660682

Potential of silver against human colon cancer: (synthesis, characterization and crystal structures of xylyl (Ortho, meta, &Para) linked bis-benzimidazolium salts and Ag(I)-NHC complexes: In vitro anticancer studies)

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Since the first successful synthesis of Ag(I)-N-heterocyclic carbene complex in 1993, this class of compounds has been extensively used for transmetallation reactions where the direct synthesis using other metal ions was either difficult or impossible. Initially, silver(I)-NHC complexes were tested for their catalytic potential but could not get fame because of lower potential compare to other competent compounds in this field; however, these compounds proved to have vital antimicrobial activities. These encouraging biomedical applications further convinced researchers to test these compounds against cancer. The current work has been carried out with this aim. Results N-ipropylbenzimidazole was synthesized by reaction of benzimidazole with ipropyl bromide. The subsequent treatment of the resulting N-alkylbenzimidazole with ortho/meta/para-(bromomethylene) benzene afforded corresponding bis-benzimidazolium bromides (5-7). The counter anion (Br-) of each salt was replaced by hexaflourophosphate (PF6-) for the ease of handling and further purification (8-10). Each salt (Ligand), in halide form, was further allowed to react with Ag2O with stirring at room temperature for a period of two days to synthesize dinuclear Ag(I)-NHC complexes (11-13). All synthesized compounds were characterized by spectroscopic techniques and microanalysis. Molecular structures of compounds 5, 9 &10 were established through single crystal x-ray diffraction technique. All the compounds were assessed for their anti-proliferation test on human colorectal cancer cell line (HCT 116). Results showed that the ligands (5-10) showed mild to negligible cytotoxicity on HCT 116 cells whereas respective silver complexes (11-13) exhibited dose dependent cytotoxicity towards the colon cancer cells with IC50 ranges between 9.7 to 44.5 μM. Interestingly, the complex 13 having para-xylyl spacer was found the most active (IC50 9.7 μM) that verifies our previously reported results. Conclusions All the bis-benzimidazolium salts (8-10) were found inactive whereas after bonding with silver cations, the Ag(I)-NHC complexes (11-13) showed a dose dependent cytotoxic activity. This proved that silver practice an important role in death of cancer cells. Also, the N-alkyl/aryl substitutions and ortho/metal/para xylyl units regulate the cytotoxicity. PMID:23391345

SEPARATION PROCESS FOR TRANSURANIC ELEMENT AND COMPOUNDS THEREOF

DOEpatents

Calvin, M.

1958-10-14

S> A process is presented for the separation of pluto nium from uranium and fission products in an aqueous acidic solution by use of a chelating agent. The plutonium is maintained in the tetravalent state and the uranium in the hexavalent state, and the acidic concentration is adjusted to about 1 N bar. The aqueous solution is then contacted with a water-immiscible organic solvent solution and the chelating agent. The chelating agents covered by this invention comprise a group of compounds characterized as fluorinated beta-diketones.

Reconnaissance for radioactive deposits in eastern Alaska, 1952

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nelson, Arthur Edward; West, Walter S.; Matzko, John J.

1954-01-01

Reconnaissance for radioactive deposits was conducted in selected areas of eastern Alaska during 1952. Examination of copper, silver, and molybdenum occurrences and of a reported nickel prospect in the Slana-Nabesna and Chisana districts in the eastern Alaska Range revealed a maximum radioactivity of about 0.003 percent equivalent uranium. No appreciable radioactivity anomolies were indicated by aerial and foot traverses in the area. Reconnaissance for possible lode concentrations of uranium minerals in the vicinity of reported fluoride occurrences in the Hope Creek and Miller House-Circle Hot Springs areas of the Circle quadrangle and in the Fortymile district found a maximum of 0.055 percent equivalent uranium in a float fragment of ferruginous breccia in the Hope Creek area; analysis of samples obtained in the vicinity of the other fluoride occurrences showed a maximum of only 0.005 percent equivalent uranium. No uraniferous loads were discovered in the Koyukuk-Chandalar region, nor was the source of the monazite, previously reported in the placer concentrates from the Chandalar mining district, located. The source of the uranotheorianite in the placers at Gold Bench on the South Fork of the Koyukuk River was not found during a brief reconaissance, but a placer concentrate was obtained that contains 0.18 percent equivalent uranium. This concentrate is about ten times more radioactive than concentrates previously available from the area.

Semi-automated potentiometric titration method for uranium characterization.

PubMed

Cristiano, B F G; Delgado, J U; da Silva, J W S; de Barros, P D; de Araújo, R M S; Lopes, R T

2012-07-01

The manual version of the potentiometric titration method has been used for certification and characterization of uranium compounds. In order to reduce the analysis time and the influence of the analyst, a semi-automatic version of the method was developed in the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission. The method was applied with traceability assured by using a potassium dichromate primary standard. The combined standard uncertainty in determining the total concentration of uranium was around 0.01%, which is suitable for uranium characterization. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mineral resources of the Turtle Mountains Wilderness Study Area, San Bernardino County, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Howard, Keith A.; Nielson, Jane E.; Simpson, Robert W.; Hazlett, Richard W.; Alminas, Henry V.; Nakata, John K.; McDonnell, John R.

1988-01-01

At the request of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, approximately 105,200 acres of the Turtle Mountains Wilderness Study Area (CDCA-307) were evaluated for mineral resources (known) and resource potential (undiscovered). In this report, the area studied is referred to as "the wilderness study area" or simply "the study area"; any reference to the Turtle Mountain Wilderness Study Area refers only to that part of the wilderness study area for which a mineral survey was requested by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.The wilderness study area is in southeastern San Bernardino County, Calif. Gold, silver, copper, and lead have been mined within and adjacent to the study area. Copper-zinc-silver-gold mineral occurrences are found in the southern part and gold-silver mineral occurrences are found in the northern part of the study area; identified low- to moderate-grade gold-silver resources occur adjacent to the study area along the western boundary. Six areas in the south-central and northwestern parts of the study area have high resource potential, two broad areas have moderate resource potential, and part of the southwest corner has low resource potential for lode gold, silver, and associated copper, lead, zinc, molybdenum, and tungsten. Alluvium locally within one of these areas has moderate resource potential for placer gold and silver, and the entire area has low resource potential for placer gold and silver. There is low resource potential for perlite, ornamental stone (onyx marble and opal), manganese, uranium and thorium, pegmatite minerals, and oil and gas within the study area. Sand and gravel are abundant but are readily available outside the wilderness study area.

FUEL ELEMENTS AND METHOD OF MAKING

DOEpatents

Noland, R.A.; Marzano, C.

1958-08-19

A process is described of surface-impregnating bodies of metallic uranium with silicon. Silicon metal is added to or admixed with alkali metal selected from the group consisting of sodiunn, potassium, and sodiunnpotassium alloy. The uraniunn body is then immersed in the mixture obtained and the temperature is raised to between 425 and 600 deg C. The silicon is dissolved and deposits as a uranium-silicon compound on the uranium body.

METHOD FOR PURIFYING URANIUM

DOEpatents

Kennedy, J.W.; Segre, E.G.

1958-08-26

A method is presented for obtaining a compound of uranium in an extremely pure state and in such a condition that it can be used in determinations of the isotopic composition of uranium. Uranium deposited in calutron receivers is removed therefrom by washing with cold nitric acid and the resulting solution, coataining uranium and trace amounts of various impurities, such as Fe, Ag, Zn, Pb, and Ni, is then subjected to various analytical manipulations to obtain an impurity-free uranium containing solution. This solution is then evaporated on a platinum disk and the residue is ignited converting it to U2/sub 3//sub 8/. The platinum disk having such a thin film of pure U/sub 2/O/sub 8/ is suitable for use with isotopic determination techaiques.

MOUNT ZIRKEL WILDERNESS AND VICINITY, COLORADO.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Snyder, George L.; Patten, Lowell L.

1984-01-01

Several areas of metallic and nonmetallic mineralization have been identified from surface occurrences within the Mount Zirkel Wilderness and vicinity, Colorado. Three areas of probable copper-lead-zinc-silver-gold resource potential, two areas of probable chrome-platinum resource potential, four areas of probable uranium-thorium resource potential, two areas of probable molybdenum resource potential, and one area of probable fluorspar potential were identified. No potential for fossil fuel or geothermal resources was identified.

X-ray magnetic circular dichroism in d and f ferromagnetic materials: recent theoretical progress. Part II (Review Article)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antonov, V. N.; Shpak, A. P.; Yaresko, A. N.

2008-02-01

The present state of theoretical understanding of the x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) of 4f and 5f compounds is reviewed. Energy band theory based upon the local spin-density approximation (LSDA) describes the XMCD spectra of transition metal compounds with high accuracy. However, the LSDA does not suffice for lanthanide compounds which have a correlated 4f shell. A satisfactory description of the XMCD spectra could be obtained by using a generalization of the LSDA, in which explicitly f electron Coulomb correlations are taken into account (LSDA +U approach). As examples of this group we consider the compound GdN. We also consider uranium 5f compounds. In those compounds where the 5f electrons are rather delocalized, the LSDA describes the XMCD spectra reasonably well. As an example of this group we consider UFe2. Particular differences occur for uranium compounds in which the 5f electrons are neither delocalized nor localized, but more or less semilocalized. Typical examples are UXAl (X =Co, Rh, and Pt), and UX (X =S, Se, Te). However, the semilocalized 5f's are not inert, but their interaction with conduction electrons plays an important role. We also consider the electronic structure and XMCD spectra of the heavy-fermion compounds UPt3, URu2Si2, UPd2Al3, UNi2Al3, and UBe13, where the degree of the 5f localization is increased in comparison with other uranium compounds. The electronic structure and XMCD spectra of UGe2 which possesses simultaneously ferromagnetism and superconductivity also presented. Recently achieved improvements for describing 5f compounds are discussed.

A Preliminary Assessment of Silver Nanoparticle Inhibition of Monkeypox Virus Plaque Formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogers, James V.; Parkinson, Christopher V.; Choi, Young W.; Speshock, Janice L.; Hussain, Saber M.

2008-04-01

The use of nanotechnology and nanomaterials in medical research is growing. Silver-containing nanoparticles have previously demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria and viral particles. This preliminary study utilized an in vitro approach to evaluate the ability of silver-based nanoparticles to inhibit infectivity of the biological select agent, monkeypox virus (MPV). Nanoparticles (10 80 nm, with or without polysaccharide coating), or silver nitrate (AgNO3) at concentrations of 100, 50, 25, and 12.5 μg/mL were evaluated for efficacy using a plaque reduction assay. Both Ag-PS-25 (polysaccharide-coated, 25 nm) and Ag-NP-55 (non-coated, 55 nm) exhibited a significant ( P ≤ 0.05) dose-dependent effect of test compound concentration on the mean number of plaque-forming units (PFU). All concentrations of silver nitrate (except 100 μg/mL) and Ag-PS-10 promoted significant ( P ≤ 0.05) decreases in the number of observed PFU compared to untreated controls. Some nanoparticle treatments led to increased MPV PFU ranging from 1.04- to 1.8-fold above controls. No cytotoxicity (Vero cell monolayer sloughing) was caused by any test compound, except 100 μg/mL AgNO3. These results demonstrate that silver-based nanoparticles of approximately 10 nm inhibit MPV infection in vitro, supporting their potential use as an anti-viral therapeutic.

Compound Nucleus Reactions in LENR, Analogy to Uranium Fission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hora, Heinrich; Miley, George; Philberth, Karl

2008-03-01

The discovery of nuclear fission by Hahn and Strassmann was based on a very rare microanalytical result that could not initially indicate the very complicated details of this most important process. A similarity is discussed for the low energy nuclear reactions (LENRs) with analogies to the yield structure found in measurements of uranium fission. The LENR product distribution measured earlier in a reproducible way in experiments with thin film electrodes and a high density deuteron concentration in palladium has several striking similarities with the uranium fission fragment yield curve.ootnotetextG.H. Miley and J.A. Patterson, J. New Energy 1, 11 (1996); G.H. Miley et al, Proc ICCF6, p. 629 (1997).This comparison is specifically focussed to the Maruhn-Greiner local maximum of the distribution within the large-scale minimum when the fission nuclei are excited. Implications for uranium fission are discussed in comparison with LENR relative to the identification of fission a hypothetical compound nuclear reaction via a element ^306X126 with double magic numbers.

High temperature UF6 RF plasma experiments applicable to uranium plasma core reactors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roman, W. C.

1979-01-01

An investigation was conducted using a 1.2 MW RF induction heater facility to aid in developing the technology necessary for designing a self critical fissioning uranium plasma core reactor. Pure, high temperature uranium hexafluoride (UF6) was injected into an argon fluid mechanically confined, steady state, RF heated plasma while employing different exhaust systems and diagnostic techniques to simulate and investigate some potential characteristics of uranium plasma core nuclear reactors. The development of techniques and equipment for fluid mechanical confinement of RF heated uranium plasmas with a high density of uranium vapor within the plasma, while simultaneously minimizing deposition of uranium and uranium compounds on the test chamber peripheral wall, endwall surfaces, and primary exhaust ducts, is discussed. The material tests and handling techniques suitable for use with high temperature, high pressure, gaseous UF6 are described and the development of complementary diagnostic instrumentation and measurement techniques to characterize the uranium plasma, effluent exhaust gases, and residue deposited on the test chamber and exhaust system components is reported.

THE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF TERNARY ALLOYS OF PLUTONIUM WITH MOLYBDENUM AND URANIUM

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Phillips, G.; Woodhead, J.; Jenkins, E.N.

1958-09-01

It is shown that the absorptiometric determination of molybdenum as thiocyanate may be used in the presence of plutonium. Molybdenum interferes with previously published methods for determining uranium and plutonium but conditlons have been established for its complete removal by solvent extraction of the compound with alpha -benzoin oxime. The previous methods for uranium and plutonium are satisfactory when applied to the residual aqueous phase following this solvent extraction. (auth)

Comparison on Bactericidal and Cytotoxic Effect of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by Different Methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mala, R.; Celsia, A. S. Ruby; Malathi Devi, S.; Geerthika, S.

2017-08-01

Biologically synthesized silver nanoparticle are biocompatible for medical applications. The present work is aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticle using the fruit pulp of Tamarindusindica and to evaluate its antibacterial and anticancer activity against lung cancercell lines. Antibacterial activity was assessed by well diffusion method. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using MTT assay. GC-MS of fruit pulp extract showed the presence of levoglucosenone, n-hexadecanoic acid, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid etc. Antioxidant activity of the fruit pulp was determined by DPPH assay, hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay and lipid peroxidation. The size of biologically synthesized silver nanoparticle varied from 50 nm to 76 nm. It was 59 nm to 98 nm for chemically synthesized silver nanoparticle. Biologically synthesized silver nanoparticle showed 26 mm inhibition zone against E. coli and chemically synthesized silver nanoparticle showed 20 mm. Antioxidant activity of fruit extract by DPPH showed 84 % reduction. The IC 50 of biologically synthesized silver nanoparticle against lung cancer cell lines was 48 µg/ml. It was 95 µg/ml for chemically synthesized silver nanoparticle. The increased activity of biologically synthesized silver nanoparticle was due to its smaller size, stability and the bioactive compounds capping the silver nanoparticle extracted from the fruit extract.

Tc-99 Decontamination From Heat Treated Gaseous Diffusion Membrane -Phase I

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Oji, L.; Wilmarth, B.; Restivo, M.

2017-03-13

Uranium gaseous diffusion cascades represent a significant environmental challenge to dismantle, containerize and dispose as low-level radioactive waste. Baseline technologies rely on manual manipulations involving direct access to technetium-contaminated piping and materials. There is a potential to utilize novel thermal decontamination technologies to remove the technetium and allow for on-site disposal of the very large uranium converters. Technetium entered these gaseous diffusion cascades as a hexafluoride complex in the same fashion as uranium. Technetium, as the isotope Tc-99, is an impurity that follows uranium in the first cycle of the Plutonium and Uranium Extraction (PUREX) process. The technetium speciation ormore » exact form in the gas diffusion cascades is not well defined. Several forms of Tc-99 compounds, mostly the fluorinated technetium compounds with varying degrees of volatility have been speculated by the scientific community to be present in these cascades. Therefore, there may be a possibility of using thermal desorption, which is independent of the technetium oxidation states, to perform an in situ removal of the technetium as a volatile species and trap the radionuclide on sorbent traps which could be disposed as low-level waste.« less

Rapid extraction and assay of uranium from environmental surface samples

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Barrett, Christopher A.; Chouyyok, Wilaiwan; Speakman, Robert J.

Extraction methods enabling faster removal and concentration of uranium compounds for improved trace and low-level assay are demonstrated for standard surface sampling material in support of nuclear safeguards efforts, health monitoring, and other nuclear analysis applications. A key problem with the existing surface sampling swipes is the requirement for complete digestion of sample and sampling matrix. This is a time-consuming and labour-intensive process that limits laboratory throughput, elevates costs, and increases background levels. Various extraction methods are explored for their potential to quickly and efficiently remove different chemical forms of uranium from standard surface sampling material. A combination of carbonatemore » and peroxide solutions is shown to give the most rapid and complete form of uranyl compound extraction and dissolution. This rapid extraction process is demonstrated to be compatible with standard inductive coupled plasma mass spectrometry methods for uranium isotopic assay as well as screening techniques such as x-ray fluorescence. The general approach described has application beyond uranium to other analytes of nuclear forensic interest (e.g., rare earth elements and plutonium) as well as heavy metals for environmental and industrial hygiene monitoring.« less

Uranium deposits in Grant County, New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Granger, Harry C.; Bauer, Herman L.; Lovering, Tom G.; Gillerman, Elliot

1952-01-01

The known uranium deposits of Grant county, N. Mex., are principally in the White Signal and Black Hawk districts. Both districts are within a northwesterly-trending belt of pre-Cambrian rocks, composed chiefly of granite with included gneisses, schists, and quartzites. Younger dikes and stocks intrude the pre-Cambrian complex. The White Signal district is on the southeast flanks of the Burro Mountains; the Black Hawk district is about 18 miles northwest of the town of White Signal. In the White Signal district the seconday uranium phosphates--autunite and torbernite--occur as fracture coatings and disseminations in oxidized parts of quartz-pyrite veins, and in the adjacent mafic dikes and granites; uraniferous limonite is common locally. Most of the known uraniferous deposits are less that 50 feet in their greatest dimension. The most promising deposits in the district are on the Merry Widow and Blue Jay claims. The richest sample taken from the Merry Widow mine contained more than 2 percent uranium and a sample from the Blue Jay property contained as much as 0.11 percent; samples from the other properties were of lower grade. In the Black Hawk district pitchblende is associated with nickel, silver, and cobalt minerals in fissure veins. The most promising properties in the Black Hawk district are the Black Hawk, Alhambra, and Rose mines. No uranium analyses from this district were available in 1951. There are no known minable reserves of uranium ore in either district, although there is some vein material at the Merry Widow mine of ore grade, if a market were available in the region.

Silver deposition and tissue staining associated with wound dressings containing silver.

PubMed

Walker, Michael; Cochrane, Christine A; Bowler, Philip G; Parsons, David; Bradshaw, Peter

2006-01-01

Argyria is the general term used to denote a clinical condition in which excessive administration and deposition of silver causes a permanent irreversible gray-blue discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes. The amount of discoloration usually depends on the route of silver delivery (ie, oral or topical administration) along with the body's ability to absorb and excrete the administered silver compound. Argyria is accepted as a rare dermatosis but once silver particles are deposited, they remain immobile and may accumulate during the aging process. Topical application of silver salts (eg, silver nitrate solution) may lead to transient skin staining. To investigate their potential to cause skin staining, two silver-containing dressings (Hydrofiber and nanocrystalline) were applied to human skin samples taken from electively amputated lower limbs. The potential for skin discoloration was assayed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. When the dressings were hydrated with water, a significantly higher amount of silver was released from the nanocrystalline dressing compared to the Hydrofiber dressing (P <0.005), which resulted in approximately 30 times more silver deposition. In contrast, when saline was used as the hydration medium, the release rates were low for both dressings and not significantly different (silver deposition was minimal). Controlling the amount of silver released from silver-containing dressings should help reduce excessive deposition of silver into wound tissue and minimize skin staining.

Silver(I) complexes of 2,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde-amino acid Schiff bases-Novel noncompetitive α-glucosidase inhibitors.

PubMed

Zheng, Jingwei; Ma, Lin

2015-01-01

A series of silver(I) complexes of 2,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde-amino acid Schiff bases were designed and tested for α-glucosidase inhibition. Our results indicate that all the silver complexes (4a-18a) possessed strong inhibitory activity at μmolL(-1) level, especially glutamine (12a) and histidine (18a) Schiff base silver(I) complexes exhibited an IC50 value of less than 0.01μmolL(-1). This series of compounds exhibited noncompetitive inhibition characteristics in kinetic studies. In addition, we investigated the mechanism of inhibition and the structure-activity relationships of the amino acid Schiff base silver complexes. Our results reveal that Schiff base silver complexes may be explored for their therapeutic potential as alternatives of α-glucosidase inhibitors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

FLUORIDE VOLATILITY PROCESS FOR THE RECOVERY OF URANIUM

DOEpatents

Katz, J.J.; Hyman, H.H.; Sheft, I.

1958-04-15

The separation and recovery of uraniunn from contaminants introduced by neutron irradiation by a halogenation and volatilization method are described. The irradiated uranium is dissolved in bromine trifluoride in the liquid phase. The uranium is converted to the BrF/sub 3/ soluble urmium hexafluoride compound whereas the fluorides of certain contaminating elements are insoluble in liquid BrF/sub 3/, and the reaction rate of the BrF/sub 3/ with certain other solid uranium contamirnnts is sufficiently slower than the reaction rate with uranium that substantial portions of these contaminating elements will remain as solids. These solids are then separated from the solution by a distillation, filtration, or centrifugation step. The uranium hexafluoride is then separated from the balance of the impurities and solvent by one or more distillations.

Potential anticancer properties of bioactive compounds of Gymnema sylvestre and its biofunctionalized silver nanoparticles.

PubMed

Arunachalam, Kantha Deivi; Arun, Lilly Baptista; Annamalai, Sathesh Kumar; Arunachalam, Aarrthy M

2015-01-01

Gymnema sylvestre is an ethno-pharmacologically important medicinal plant used in many polyherbal formulations for its potential health benefits. Silver nanoparticles (SNPs) were biofunctionalized using aqueous leaf extracts of G. sylvestre. The anticancer properties of the bioactive compounds and the biofunctionalized SNPs were compared using the HT29 human adenoma colon cancer cell line. The preliminary phytochemical screening for bioactive compounds from aqueous extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, triterpenes, flavonoids, steroids, and saponins. Biofunctionalized SNPs were synthesized using silver nitrate and characterized by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction for size and shape. The characterized biofunctionalized G. sylvestre were tested for its in vitro anticancer activity against HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells. The biofunctionlized G. sylvestre SNPs showed the surface plasmon resonance band at 430 nm. The scanning electron microscopy images showed the presence of spherical nanoparticles of various sizes, which were further determined using the Scherrer equation. In vitro cytotoxic activity of the biofunctionalized green-synthesized SNPs (GSNPs) indicated that the sensitivity of HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells for cytotoxic drugs is higher than that of Vero cell line for the same cytotoxic agents and also higher than the bioactive compound of the aqueous extract. Our results show that the anticancer properties of the bioactive compounds of G. sylvestre can be enhanced through biofunctionalizing the SNPs using the bioactive compounds present in the plant extract without compromising their medicinal properties.

VASQUEZ PEAK WILDERNESS STUDY AREA, AND ST. LOUIS PEAK, AND WILLIAMS FORK ROADLESS AREAS, COLORADO.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Theobald, P.K.; Bielski, A.M.

1984-01-01

A mineral-resource survey was conducted during the years 1979-82 in the Vasquez Peak Wilderness Study Area and in the St. Louis Peak and Williams Fork Roadless Areas, central Front Range, Colorado. Probable resource potential for the occurrence of copper, lead, zinc, and silver in massive sulfide deposits has been identified in calcareous metamorphic rocks in the northern part of the St. Louis Peak Roadless Area and in the southern part of the Williams Fork Roadless Area. A probable resource potential for vein-type uranium deposits is identified along the Berthoud Pass fault zone in the eastern part of the Vasquez Peak Wilderness Study Area. A large area encompassing the eastern and southeastern part of each of the three areas has probable and substantiated potential for either high-grade lead-zinc-silver vein deposits, or larger, lower-grade clustered vein deposits. A probable resource potential for stockwork molybdenum deposits related to porphyry molybdenum type mineralization exists beneath the lead-zinc-silver-rich veins. The nature of the geologic terrane indicates little likelihood for the occurrence of organic fuels.

SINGLE-STEP CONVERSION OF UO$sub 3$ TO UF$sub 4$

DOEpatents

Moore, J.E.

1960-07-12

A description is given of the preparation of uranium tetrafluoride by reacting a hexavalent uranium compound with a pclysaccharide and gaseous hydrogen fluoride at an elevated temperature. Uranium trioxide and starch are combined with water to form a doughy mixture. which is extruded into pellets and dried. The pellets are then contacted with HF at a temperature from 500 to 700 deg C in a moving bed reactor to prcduce UF/sub 4/. Reduction of the hexavalent uranium to UO/sub 2/ and conversion of the UO/sub 2/ to UF/sub 4/ are accomplished simultaneously in this process.

Uranium in well drinking water of Kabul, Afghanistan and its effective, low-cost depuration using Mg-Fe based hydrotalcite-like compounds.

PubMed

Kato, Masashi; Azimi, Mohammad Daud; Fayaz, Said Hafizullah; Shah, Muhammad Dawood; Hoque, Md Zahirul; Hamajima, Nobuyuki; Ohnuma, Shoko; Ohtsuka, Tomomi; Maeda, Masao; Yoshinaga, Masafumi

2016-12-01

Toxic elements in drinking water have great effects on human health. However, there is very limited information about toxic elements in drinking water in Afghanistan. In this study, levels of 10 elements (chromium, nickel, copper, arsenic, cadmium, antimony, barium, mercury, lead and uranium) in 227 well drinking water samples in Kabul, Afghanistan were examined for the first time. Chromium (in 0.9% of the 227 samples), arsenic (7.0%) and uranium (19.4%) exceeded the values in WHO health-based guidelines for drinking-water quality. Maximum chromium, arsenic and uranium levels in the water samples were 1.3-, 10.4- and 17.2-fold higher than the values in the guidelines, respectively. We next focused on uranium, which is the most seriously polluted element among the 10 elements. Mean ± SD (138.0 ± 1.4) of the 238 U/ 235 U isotopic ratio in the water samples was in the range of previously reported ratios for natural source uranium. We then examined the effect of our originally developed magnesium (Mg)-iron (Fe)-based hydrotalcite-like compounds (MF-HT) on adsorption for uranium. All of the uranium-polluted well water samples from Kabul (mean ± SD = 190.4 ± 113.9 μg/L; n = 11) could be remediated up to 1.2 ± 1.7 μg/L by 1% weight of our MF-HT within 60 s at very low cost (<0.001 cents/day/family) in theory. Thus, we demonstrated not only elevated levels of some toxic elements including natural source uranium but also an effective depurative for uranium in well drinking water from Kabul. Since our depurative is effective for remediation of arsenic as shown in our previous studies, its practical use in Kabul may be encouraged. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Kyllinga brevifolia mediated greener silver nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Isa, Norain; Bakhari, Nor Aziyah; Sarijo, Siti Halimah; Aziz, Azizan; Lockman, Zainovia

2017-12-01

Kyllinga brevifolia extract (KBE) was studied in this research as capping as well as reducing agent for the synthesis of greener plant mediated silver nanoparticles. This research was conducted in order to identify the compounds in the KBE that probable to work as reductant for the synthesis of Kyllinga brevifolia-mediated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Screening test such as Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC), Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR), Carlo Erba Elemental analysis and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GCMS) were used in identifying the natural compounds in KBE. The as-prepared AgNPs were characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy (UV-vis), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). The TEM images showed that the as-synthesized silver have quasi-spherical particles are distributed uniformly with a narrow distribution from 5 nm to 40 nm. The XRD results demonstrated that the obtained AgNPs were face centre-cubic (FCC) structure. The catalytic activity of AgNPs on reduction of methylene blue (MB) using sodium borohydride (SB) was analyzed using UV-vis spectroscopy. This study showed that the efficacy of mediated AgNPs in catalysing the reduction of MB.

Energetic Materials and Metals Contamination at CFB/ASU Wainwirght, Alberta Phase 1

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-11-01

Edmonton, Alberta). Metals analyzed for this study were silver (Ag), aluminium (Al), arsenic (As), boron (B), barium (Ba), beryllium (Be), bismuth 4...selenium (Se), antimony (Sb), tin (Sn), strontium (Sr), tellurium (Te), titanium (Ti), thallium (Tl), uranium (U), vanadium (V), zinc (Zn), and...mg/kg mg/kg mg/kg Aluminium - 9070 1040 Antimony 40 2 1 Arsenic 12 7 13.6 Barium 2000 177 73.4 Beryllium 8 40 40 Bismuth - 20 20 Boron - 10

Multifaceted adsorption of α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid on silver colloidal and island surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Dawoon; Jeon, Kooknam; Yeo, Juhyun; Hussain, Shafqat; Pang, Yoonsoo

2017-12-01

The surface adsorption of organic nitrile compounds on the silver colloidal and island surfaces has been studied using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). α-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (CHCA) with nitrile and carboxyl groups shows various surface adsorption on the silver surfaces. In acidic conditions, the surface adsorption of CHCA via the nitrile group with a more or less tilted geometry to the surface was found. When the solution pH increases, the carboxylate and nitrile groups of deprotonated CHCA participate in the surface adsorption, whereas the molecular plane of CHCA becomes more parallel to the surface. The ν(Ctbnd N) band in SERS of CHCA is the indicator of the surface adsorption geometry. The strongly red-shifted and broadened ν(Ctbnd N) band in SERS represents the surface adsorption via π-electrons of the Ctbnd N bond (side-on geometry; π-coordination). Nitriles adsorbed on the surface via the nonbonding electron pair of the nitrogen atom (end-on geometry; σ-coordination) often cause the blue-shifts and small band broadening in ν(Ctbnd N) in SERS. The surface adsorption geometry of organic nitriles based on many previous experimental results was further confirmed by the surface adsorption of CHCA on the silver island surfaces and dinitrile compounds on the silver colloidal surfaces.

[Ag115S34(SCH2C6H4 t Bu)47(dpph)6]: synthesis, crystal structure and NMR investigations of a soluble silver chalcogenide nanocluster.

PubMed

Bestgen, Sebastian; Fuhr, Olaf; Breitung, Ben; Kiran Chakravadhanula, Venkata Sei; Guthausen, Gisela; Hennrich, Frank; Yu, Wen; Kappes, Manfred M; Roesky, Peter W; Fenske, Dieter

2017-03-01

With the aim to synthesize soluble cluster molecules, the silver salt of (4-( tert -butyl)phenyl)methanethiol [AgSCH 2 C 6 H 4 t Bu] was applied as a suitable precursor for the formation of a nanoscale silver sulfide cluster. In the presence of 1,6-(diphenylphosphino)hexane (dpph), the 115 nuclear silver cluster [Ag 115 S 34 (SCH 2 C 6 H 4 t Bu) 47 (dpph) 6 ] was obtained. The molecular structure of this compound was elucidated by single crystal X-ray analysis and fully characterized by spectroscopic techniques. In contrast to most of the previously published cluster compounds with more than a hundred heavy atoms, this nanoscale inorganic molecule is soluble in organic solvents, which allowed a comprehensive investigation in solution by UV-Vis spectroscopy and one- and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy including 31 P/ 109 Ag-HSQC and DOSY experiments. These are the first heteronuclear NMR investigations on coinage metal chalcogenides. They give some first insight into the behavior of nanoscale silver sulfide clusters in solution. Additionally, molecular weight determinations were performed by 2D analytical ultracentrifugation and HR-TEM investigations confirm the presence of size-homogeneous nanoparticles present in solution.

Occupational exposure limit for silver nanoparticles: considerations on the derivation of a general health-based value.

PubMed

Weldon, Brittany A; M Faustman, Elaine; Oberdörster, Günter; Workman, Tomomi; Griffith, William C; Kneuer, Carsten; Yu, Il Je

2016-09-01

With the increased production and widespread commercial use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), human and environmental exposures to silver nanoparticles are inevitably increasing. In particular, persons manufacturing and handling silver nanoparticles and silver nanoparticle containing products are at risk of exposure, potentially resulting in health hazards. While silver dusts, consisting of micro-sized particles and soluble compounds have established occupational exposure limits (OELs), silver nanoparticles exhibit different physicochemical properties from bulk materials. Therefore, we assessed silver nanoparticle exposure and related health hazards in order to determine whether an additional OEL may be needed. Dosimetric evaluations in our study identified the liver as the most sensitive target organ following inhalation exposure, and as such serves as the critical target organ for setting an occupational exposure standard for airborne silver nanoparticles. This study proposes an OEL of 0.19 μg/m(3) for silver nanoparticles derived from benchmark concentrations (BMCs) from subchronic rat inhalation toxicity assessments and the human equivalent concentration (HEC) with kinetic considerations and additional uncertainty factors. It is anticipated that this level will protect workers from potential health hazards, including lung, liver, and skin damage.

THE MONITORING OF EFFLUENT FOR ALPHA EMITTERS. PART II. METHODS FOR THE DETERMINATION OF URANIUM, POLONIUM AND OTHER ALPHA EMITTERS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smales, A.A.; Airey, L.; Woodward, J.

1950-06-01

Consideration has been given to the problem of separating and estimating uranium, polonium, and other alpha emitters (in order to provide analytical methods for their routine determination in conformily with the draft agreement on the Harwell effluent). Uranium may be ether extracted from solutions of ammonium nitrate as salting out agent at pHl with an efficiency of 98 to 99%. The deposition of polonium on silver foil is a specific method for this element and under prescribed conditions similar extraction efficiencies may be obtained. An adequate separation from all other alpha emitters'' is obtained and methods for the estimation ofmore » these are discussed. A comprehensive scheme involving a preliminary activity concentration step has been elaborated. Uranium, polonium, and the majority of the other alpha emitters'' are precipitated as their tannin complexes at pH8 using calcium hydroxide, the calcium-tannin complex acting as a carrier. That part of the activity remaining in solution is determined as in the total activity method, previously described. From the solution of the precipitate, polonium is first separated by electrodeposition, and then uranium by ether extraction in the presence of ammonium nitrate. The majority of the other alpha emitters'' still in the aqueous ammonium nitrate solution are collected on a second calcium-tannin precipitate, while the small part remaining in solution after this operation is obtained by direct evaporation. (auth)« less

Incorporation of Uranium: II. Distribution of Uranium Absorbed through the Lungs and the Skin

PubMed Central

Walinder, G.; Fries, B.; Billaudelle, U.

1967-01-01

In experiments on mice, rabbits, and piglets the distribution of uranium was studied at different times after exposure. Uranium was administered by inhalation (mice) and through the skin (rabbits and piglets). These investigations show that the uptakes of uranium in different organs of the three species are highly dependent on the amounts administered. There seems to be a saturation effect in the spleen and bone tissue whenever the uranium concentration in the blood exceeds a certain level. The effect in the kidney is completely different. If, in a series of animals, the quantity of uranium is continuously increased, the uptakes by the kidneys increase more rapidly than the quantities administered. This observation seems to be consistent with the toxic effects of uranium on the capillary system in the renal cortex. Polyphloretin phosphate, a compound which reduces permeability, was investigated with respect to its effect on the uptake of uranium deposited in skin wounds in rabbits and piglets. It significantly reduced the absorption of uranium, even from depots in deep wounds. The findings are discussed with reference to the routine screening of persons exposed to uranium at AB Atomenergi. Images PMID:6073090

The Robinson and Weatherly uraniferous pyrobitumen deposits near Placerville, San Miguel County, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wilmarth, V.R.; Vickers, R.C.

1953-01-01

Uranium deposits that contain uraniferous pyrobitumen of possible hydrothermal origin occur at the Weatherly and Robinson properties near Placerville, San Miguel County, Colo. These deposits were mined for copper, silver, and gold more than 50 years ago and were developed for uranium in 1950. The Robinson property, half a mile east of Placerville, consists of the White Spar, New Discovery Lode, and Barbara Jo claims. The rocks in this area are nearly horizontal sandstones, shales, limestones, and conglomerates of the Cutler formation of Permian age and the Dolores formation of Triassic and Jurassic (?) age. These rocks have been faulted extensively and intruded by a Tertiary (?) andesite porphyry dike. Uranium-bearing pyrobitumen associated with tennantite, tetrahedrite, galena, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, bornite, azurite, malachite, calcite, barite, and quartz occurs in a lenticular body as much as 40 feet long and 6 feet wide along a northwest-trending, steeply dipping normal fault. The uranium content of eleven samples from the uranium deposit ranges from 0.001 to 0.045 percent uranium and averages about 0.02 percent uranium. The Weatherly property, about a mile northwest of Placerville, consists of the Black King claims nos. 1, 4, and 5. The rocks in this area include the complexly faulted Cutler formation of Permian age and the Dolores formation of Triassic and Jurassic (?) age. Uranium-bearing pyrobitumen arid uranophane occur, along a northwest-trending, steeply dipping normal fault and in the sedimentary rocks on the hanging wall of the fault. Lens-shaped deposits in the fault zone are as much as 6 feet long and 2 feet wide and contain as much as 9 percent uranium; whereas channel samples across the fault zone contain from 0.001 to 0.014 percent uranium. Tetrahedrite, chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite, fuchsite, malachite, azurite, erythrite, bornite, and molybdite in a gangue of pyrite, calcite, barite, and quartz are associated with the uraniferous material. In the sedimentary rocks on the hanging wall, uranium-bearing pyrobitumen occurs in replacement lenses as much as,8 inches wide and 6 feet long, and in nodules as much as 6 inches in diameter for approximately 100 feet away from the fault. Pyrite and calcite are closely associated with the uraniferous material in the sedimentary rocks. Samples from the replacement bodies contain from 0. 007 to 1.4 percent uranium.

Multiconfigurational nature of 5f orbitals in uranium and plutonium intermetallics

PubMed Central

Booth, C.H.; Jiang, Yu; Wang, D.L.; Mitchell, J.N.; Tobash, P.H.; Bauer, E.D.; Wall, M.A.; Allen, P.G.; Sokaras, D.; Nordlund, D.; Weng, T.-C.; Torrez, M.A.; Sarrao, J.L.

2012-01-01

Uranium and plutonium’s 5f electrons are tenuously poised between strongly bonding with ligand spd-states and residing close to the nucleus. The unusual properties of these elements and their compounds (e.g., the six different allotropes of elemental plutonium) are widely believed to depend on the related attributes of f-orbital occupancy and delocalization for which a quantitative measure is lacking. By employing resonant X-ray emission spectroscopy (RXES) and X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy and making comparisons to specific heat measurements, we demonstrate the presence of multiconfigurational f-orbital states in the actinide elements U and Pu and in a wide range of uranium and plutonium intermetallic compounds. These results provide a robust experimental basis for a new framework toward understanding the strongly-correlated behavior of actinide materials. PMID:22706643

Characterization and antibacterial properties of porous fibers containing silver ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Zhaoyang; Fan, Chenxu; Tang, Xiaopeng; Zhao, Jianghui; Song, Yanhua; Shao, Zhongbiao; Xu, Lan

2016-11-01

Materials prepared on the base of bioactive silver compounds have become more and more popular. In the present work, the surface morphology, structure and properties, of electrospun Polylactide Polylactic acid (PLA) porous fibers containing various ratios of silver ions were investigated by a combination of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), universal testing machine, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and et al. The biological activities of the proposed porous fibers were discussed in view of the released silver ions concentration. Antibacterial properties of these porous fibers were studied using two bacterial strains: Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Results of the antibacterial testing suggested that PLA porous fibers containing silver ions could be used as potent antibacterial wound dressing materials in the biomedical field.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Reilly, Sean Douglas; Smith, Paul Herrick; Jarvinen, Gordon D.

Understanding the water solubility of plutonium and uranium compounds and residues at TA-55 is necessary to provide a technical basis for appropriate criticality safety, safety basis and accountability controls. Individual compound solubility was determined using published solubility data and solution thermodynamic modeling. Residue solubility was estimated using a combination of published technical reports and process knowledge of constituent compounds. The scope of materials considered includes all compounds and residues at TA-55 as of March 2016 that contain Pu-239 or U-235 where any single item in the facility has more than 500 g of nuclear material. This analysis indicates that themore » following materials are not appreciably soluble in water: plutonium dioxide (IDC=C21), plutonium phosphate (IDC=C66), plutonium tetrafluoride (IDC=C80), plutonium filter residue (IDC=R26), plutonium hydroxide precipitate (IDC=R41), plutonium DOR salt (IDC=R42), plutonium incinerator ash (IDC=R47), uranium carbide (IDC=C13), uranium dioxide (IDC=C21), U 3O 8 (IDC=C88), and uranium filter residue (IDC=R26). This analysis also indicates that the following materials are soluble in water: plutonium chloride (IDC=C19) and uranium nitrate (IDC=C52). Equilibrium calculations suggest that PuOCl is water soluble under certain conditions, but some plutonium processing reports indicate that it is insoluble when present in electrorefining residues (R65). Plutonium molten salt extraction residues (IDC=R83) contain significant quantities of PuCl 3, and are expected to be soluble in water. The solubility of the following plutonium residues is indeterminate due to conflicting reports, insufficient process knowledge or process-dependent composition: calcium salt (IDC=R09), electrorefining salt (IDC=R65), salt (IDC=R71), silica (IDC=R73) and sweepings/screenings (IDC=R78). Solution thermodynamic modeling also indicates that fire suppression water buffered with a commercially-available phosphate buffer would significantly reduce the solubility of PuCl 3 by the precipitation of PuPO 4.« less

PREPARATION OF URANIUM TRIOXIDE

DOEpatents

Buckingham, J.S.

1959-09-01

The production of uranium trioxide from aqueous solutions of uranyl nitrate is discussed. The uranium trioxide is produced by adding sulfur or a sulfur-containing compound, such as thiourea, sulfamic acid, sulfuric acid, and ammonium sulfate, to the uranyl solution in an amount of about 0.5% by weight of the uranyl nitrate hexahydrate, evaporating the solution to dryness, and calcining the dry residue. The trioxide obtained by this method furnished a dioxide with a considerably higher reactivity with hydrogen fluoride than a trioxide prepared without the sulfur additive.

Formation of Neogenic Ores on the Dump-Heaps of Old Uranium Mines and on the Mine-Head of Mines under Exploitation; FORMATION DE MINERAUX NEOGENES SUR LES HALDES D'ANCIENNES MINES D'URANIUM ET SUR LE CARREAU DES MINES EN EXPLOITATION

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chervet, J.

1960-01-01

The major degradations suffered by primary and secondary uranium ores under the weathering action of air and water are assessed. Pyritic ores were found to be the most vunerable. The interactions between pynite oxidation products and urantferous compounds often lead to the formation of neogentc ores. (C.J.G.)

222Rn emanation from uranium-glazed ceramics.

PubMed

Biagioni, R N; Sheets, R W

2001-02-01

Orange-red uranium-glazed dinnerware was found to emanate 222Rn to produce an average of less than 0.1 Bq 222Rn decay per piece, which should have no associated health risks. Comparison of 222Rn emanation to 226Ra in glazes (measured by alpha spectrometry) indicated inefficient emanation (<5%) of 222Rn, consistent with the low radon levels observed and with the presence of 222Rn progeny in glazes. These studies also showed that reagent grade uranium compounds may emanate measurable 222Rn.

WELDING PROCESS

DOEpatents

Zambrow, J.; Hausner, H.

1957-09-24

A method of joining metal parts for the preparation of relatively long, thin fuel element cores of uranium or alloys thereof for nuclear reactors is described. The process includes the steps of cleaning the surfaces to be jointed, placing the sunfaces together, and providing between and in contact with them, a layer of a compound in finely divided form that is decomposable to metal by heat. The fuel element members are then heated at the contact zone and maintained under pressure during the heating to decompose the compound to metal and sinter the members and reduced metal together producing a weld. The preferred class of decomposable compounds are the metal hydrides such as uranium hydride, which release hydrogen thus providing a reducing atmosphere in the vicinity of the welding operation.

Dibutyl Phosphoric Acid Solubility in High-Acid, Uranium-Bearing Solutions at SRS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pierce, R.A.

1998-10-02

The Savannah River Site has enriched uranium (EU) solution which has been stored for almost 10 years since being purified in the second uranium cycle of the H area solvent extraction process. The concentrations in solution are approximately 6 g/L U and about 0.1 M nitric acid. Residual tributylphosphate in the solutions has slowly hydrolyzed to form dibutyl phosphoric acid (HDBP) at concentrations averaging 50 mg/L. Uranium is known to form compounds with the dibutylphosphate ion (DBP) which have limited solubility. The potential to form uranium-DBP solids raises a nuclear criticality safety issue. Prior SRTC tests (WSRC-TR-98-00188) showed that U-DBPmore » solids precipitate at concentrations potentially attainable during the storage of enriched uranium solutions. Furthermore, evaporation of the existing EUS solution without additional acidification could result in the precipitation of U-DBP solids if the DBP concentration in the resulting solution exceeds 110 mg/L at ambient temperature. The same potential exists for evaporation of unwashed 1CU solutions. As a follow-up to the earlier studies, SRTC studied the solubility limits for solutions containing acid concentrations above 0.5M HNO3. The data obtained in these tests reveals a shift to higher levels of DBP solubility above 0.5M HNO3 for both 6 g/L and 12 g/L uranium solutions. Analysis of U-DBP solids from the tests identified a mixture of different molecular structures for the solids created. The analysis distinguished UO2(DBP)2 as the dominant compound present at low acid concentrations. As the acid concentration increases, the crystalline UO2(DBP)2 shows molecular substitutions and an increase in amorphous content. Further analysis by methods not available at SRS will be needed to better identify the specific compounds present. This data indicates that acidification prior to evaporation can be used to increase the margin of safety for the storage of the EUS solutions. Subsequent experimentation evaluated options for absorbing HDBP from solution using either activated carbon or anion exchange resin. The activated carbon outperformed the anion exchange resin. Activated carbon absorbs DBP rapidly and has demonstrated the capability of absorbing 15 mg of DBP per gram of activated carbon. Analytical results also show that activated carbon absorbs uranium up to 17 mg per gram of carbon. It is speculated that the uranium absorbed is part of a soluble U-DBP complex that has been absorbed. Additional testing must still be performed to 1) establish absorption limits for uranium for anion exchange resin, 2) evaluate desorption characteristics of uranium and DBP, and 3) study the possibility of re-using the absorbent.« less

Silver Nanoforms as a Therapeutic Agent for Killing Escherichia coli and Certain ESKAPE Pathogens.

PubMed

Kedziora, A; Korzekwa, K; Strek, W; Pawlak, A; Doroszkiewicz, W; Bugla-Ploskonska, G

2016-07-01

The scope of this study included the preparation of silver nanoforms with high antimicrobial efficacy, low cost, and ease of application. The term 'silver nanoforms' refers to silver located on the amorphous or crystalline titanium dioxide (TiO2). Silver nanoforms may be used as an alternative to antibiotics in killing bacteria. Pure and silver-incorporated titanium (used as a carrier) was prepared using the sol-gel-modified method. Physical and chemical properties of the samples were described, and the antibacterial activity was indicated using the following strains of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESKAPE pathogens), and Escherichia coli. The results have shown that the antibacterial activity of silver nanoforms with amorphous TiO2 is much better than that in the samples based on anatase (crystalline TiO2). The sensitivity of the tested bacteria to silver nanoforms depends on physical and chemical properties of the nanoforms and individual characteristics of the bacteria. For the first time, significant participation of amorphous TiO2 in antibacterial compounds has been described through this study.

Francis Perrin's 1939 Analysis of Uranium Criticality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reed, Cameron

2012-03-01

In May 1939, French physicist Francis Perrin published the first numerical estimate of the fast-neutron critical mass of a uranium compound. While his estimate of about 40 metric tons (12 tons if tamped) pertained to uranium oxide of natural isotopic composition as opposed to the enriched uranium that would be required for a nuclear weapon, it is interesting to examine Perrin's physics and to explore the subsequent impact of his paper. In this presentation I will discuss Perrin's model, the likely provenance of his parameter values, and how his work compared to the approach taken by Robert Serber in his 1943 Los Alamos Primer.

Properties of radio-frequency heated argon confined uranium plasmas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

Pure uranium hexafluoride (UF6) was injected into an argon confined, steady state, rf-heated plasma within a fused silica peripheral wall test chamber. Exploratory tests conducted using an 80 kW rf facility and different test chamber flow configurations permitted selection of the configuration demonstrating the best confinement characteristics and minimum uranium compound wall coating. The overall test results demonstrated applicable flow schemes and associated diagnostic techniques were developed for the fluid mechanical confinement and characterization of uranium within an rf plasma discharge when pure UF6 is injected for long test times into an argon-confined, high-temperature, high-pressure, rf-heated plasma.

Potential anticancer properties of bioactive compounds of Gymnema sylvestre and its biofunctionalized silver nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Arunachalam, Kantha Deivi; Arun, Lilly Baptista; Annamalai, Sathesh Kumar; Arunachalam, Aarrthy M

2015-01-01

Background Gymnema sylvestre is an ethno-pharmacologically important medicinal plant used in many polyherbal formulations for its potential health benefits. Silver nanoparticles (SNPs) were biofunctionalized using aqueous leaf extracts of G. sylvestre. The anticancer properties of the bioactive compounds and the biofunctionalized SNPs were compared using the HT29 human adenoma colon cancer cell line. Methods The preliminary phytochemical screening for bioactive compounds from aqueous extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, triterpenes, flavonoids, steroids, and saponins. Biofunctionalized SNPs were synthesized using silver nitrate and characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction for size and shape. The characterized biofunctionalized G. sylvestre were tested for its in vitro anticancer activity against HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells. Results The biofunctionlized G. sylvestre SNPs showed the surface plasmon resonance band at 430 nm. The scanning electron microscopy images showed the presence of spherical nanoparticles of various sizes, which were further determined using the Scherrer equation. In vitro cytotoxic activity of the biofunctionalized green-synthesized SNPs (GSNPs) indicated that the sensitivity of HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells for cytotoxic drugs is higher than that of Vero cell line for the same cytotoxic agents and also higher than the bioactive compound of the aqueous extract. Conclusion Our results show that the anticancer properties of the bioactive compounds of G. sylvestre can be enhanced through biofunctionalizing the SNPs using the bioactive compounds present in the plant extract without compromising their medicinal properties. PMID:25565802

Dry phase reactor for generating medical isotopes

DOEpatents

Mackie, Thomas Rockwell; Heltemes, Thad Alexander

2016-05-03

An apparatus for generating medical isotopes provides for the irradiation of dry-phase, granular uranium compounds which are then dissolved in a solvent for separation of the medical isotope from the irradiated compound. Once the medical isotope is removed, the dissolved compound may be reconstituted in dry granular form for repeated irradiation.

Organic matter characteristics in boreal forest soils under stands of silver birch, Norway spruce, and Norway spruce with a mixture of silver birch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smolander, A.; Kitunen, V.

2012-04-01

The aim was to study how tree species and a tree species mixture affect microbial C and N transformations and two major plant secondary compound groups, terpenes and phenolic compounds in soil. The study site was a tree-species experiment in middle-eastern part of Finland containing plots of 43-year-old silver birch, Norway spruce and Norway spruce with a mixture of silver birch (22 and 37 % birch of the total stem number). Soil was podzol and humus type mor. Samples were taken from the organic layer. C and N in the microbial biomass, rates of C mineralization (CO2 evolution), net N mineralization and nitrification, and concentrations of total water-soluble phenolic compounds, condensed tannins and different kind of terpenes were measured. Amounts of C and N in the microbial biomass and the rates of C mineralization and net N mineralization were all lower under spruce than birch, and particularly net N mineralization was stimulated by birch mixture. Concentrations of total water-soluble phenolic compounds were on a similar level, irrespective of tree species. However, there were less low-molecular-weight phenolics and more high-molecular-weight phenolics under spruce than birch. Concentrations of condensed tannins and both sesqui- and diterpenes were all higher under spruce than birch but the concentrations of triterpenes were similar in all soils. The difference between tree species was greatest with monoterpenes which were measured from both organic layer and soil atmosphere: high concentrations under spruce and negligible under birch. Birch mixture tended to decrease the concentrations of condensed tannins and mono-, sesqui- and diterpenes.

Responsiveness of cats (Felidae) to silver vine (Actinidia polygama), Tatarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica), valerian (Valeriana officinalis) and catnip (Nepeta cataria).

PubMed

Bol, Sebastiaan; Caspers, Jana; Buckingham, Lauren; Anderson-Shelton, Gail Denise; Ridgway, Carrie; Buffington, C A Tony; Schulz, Stefan; Bunnik, Evelien M

2017-03-16

Olfactory stimulation is an often overlooked method of environmental enrichment for cats in captivity. The best known example of olfactory enrichment is the use of catnip, a plant that can cause an apparently euphoric reaction in domestic cats and most of the Pantherinae. It has long been known that some domestic cats and most tigers do not respond to catnip. Although many anecdotes exist of other plants with similar effects, data are lacking about the number of cats that respond to these plants, and if cats that do not respond to catnip respond to any of them. Furthermore, much is still unknown about which chemicals in these plants cause this response. We tested catnip, silver vine, Tatarian honeysuckle and valerian root on 100 domestic cats and observed their response. Each cat was offered all four plant materials and a control, multiple times. Catnip and silver vine also were offered to nine tigers. The plant materials were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry to quantify concentrations of compounds believed to exert stimulating effects on cats. Nearly all domestic cats responded positively to olfactory enrichment. In agreement with previous studies, one out of every three cats did not respond to catnip. Almost 80% of the domestic cats responded to silver vine and about 50% to Tatarian honeysuckle and valerian root. Although cats predominantly responded to fruit galls of the silver vine plant, some also responded positively to its wood. Of the cats that did not respond to catnip, almost 75% did respond to silver vine and about one out of three to Tatarian honeysuckle. Unlike domestic cats, tigers were either not interested in silver vine or responded disapprovingly. The amount of nepetalactone was highest in catnip and only present at marginal levels in the other plants. Silver vine contained the highest concentrations of all other compounds tested. Olfactory enrichment for cats may have great potential. Silver vine powder from dried fruit galls and catnip were most popular among domestic cats. Silver vine and Tatarian honeysuckle appear to be good alternatives to catnip for domestic cats that do not respond to catnip.

A Pharmacological and Toxicological Profile of Silver as an Antimicrobial Agent in Medical Devices

PubMed Central

Lansdown, Alan B. G.

2010-01-01

Silver is used widely in wound dressings and medical devices as a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Metallic silver and most inorganic silver compounds ionise in moisture, body fluids, and secretions to release biologically active Ag+. The ion is absorbed into the systemic circulation from the diet and drinking water, by inhalation and through intraparenteral administration. Percutaneous absorption of Ag+ through intact or damaged skin is low. Ag+ binds strongly to metallothionein, albumins, and macroglobulins and is metabolised to all tissues other than the brain and the central nervous system. Silver sulphide or silver selenide precipitates, bound lysosomally in soft tissues, are inert and not associated with an irreversible toxic change. Argyria and argyrosis are the principle effects associated with heavy deposition of insoluble silver precipitates in the dermis and cornea/conjunctiva. Whilst these changes may be profoundly disfiguring and persistent, they are not associated with pathological damage in any tissue. The present paper discusses the mechanisms of absorption and metabolism of silver in the human body, presumed mechanisms of argyria and argyrosis, and the elimination of silver-protein complexes in the bile and urine. Minimum blood silver levels consistent with early signs of argyria or argyrosis are not known. Silver allergy does occur but the extent of the problem is not known. Reference values for silver exposure are discussed. PMID:21188244

NORTH ABSAROKA STUDY AREA, MONTANA.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Elliott, J.E.; Stotelmeyer, R.B.

1984-01-01

A mineral survey of the North Absaroka study area in Montana was conducted. The results of this survey indicate that parts of the area are extensively mineralized and that the area has potential for resources of gold, silver, copper, molybdenum, nickel, lead, zinc, platinum-group metals, uranium, iron, manganese, chromium, tungsten, and arsenic. Six areas of probable and substantiated mineral-resource potential were identified. The nature of the geologic terrain indicates that there is little likelihood for occurrence of oil, gas, coal, or geothermal resources.

THE QUESTIONS OF HEALTH HAZARDS FROM THE INHALATION OF INSOLUBLE URANIUM AND THORIUM OXIDES

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hodge, H.C.; Thomas, R.G.

1958-10-31

The insoluble compounds of uranium and thorium, particularly the oxides, are important in the development of atomic energy. Thc questions of health hazards from exposures to dusts of these insoluble compounds are strikily simlar in many but not all respects, Among the similarities may be listed the following facts: The insoluble compounds present no chemical hazard. Both uranium and thorium dioxides, for example, are remarkably inert physiologically. No radiation injuries have so far been described in the lungs of experimental animals inhaling dust concentrations many times the recommended MAC. The lungs of a few dogs studied seven years after excessivemore » inhalation exposures to ThO/sub 2/ gave negative histological findings although high concentrations of thorium were present. The MACs for insoluble uranium and for inxoluble thorium dusts are identical, specifically 3 x 10/sup -11/ c/1. Calculated on a radiation basis, a lower MAC is appropriate for thorium. Based on a considerable body of information from cted. For both uranium and thorium dioxides fecal excretion reflects the immediate exposure to dusty atmospheres. Urine analyses are a prime index of uranium exposure whereas the presence of the much less soluble thorium dioxide in the lung cannot be thus assessed. Breath thoron extimnations or possibly measurements using a whole body counter have been recommended as indices of thorium exposure. The fundamental question depends on the radiosensitivity of the lung and of the pulmonary lymph nodes; neither the production of radiation injury nor the production of cancer are evaluated at present with respect to dosage of radiation. The lung tissues of the dogs described above must have received several thousand rem during the 7 year period. The pulmonary lymph modes must have received considerably more radiation because the concentrations in these nodes e use of the insoluble oxides and the low MACs combine to raise recurring questions of health hazards. (auth)« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fincke, J.R.; Swank, W.D.; Haggard, D.C.

This paper describes the experimental demonstration of a process for the direct plasma reduction of depleted uranium hexafluoride to uranium metal. The process exploits the large departures from equilibrium that can be achieved in the rapid supersonic expansion of a totally dissociated and partially ionized mixture of UF{sub 6}, Ar, He, and H{sub 2}. The process is based on the rapid condensation of subcooled uranium vapor and the relatively slow rate of back reaction between metallic uranium and HF to F{sub 2} to reform stable fluorides. The high translational velocities and rapid cooling result in an overpopulation of atomic hydrogenmore » which persists throughout the expansion process. Atomic hydrogen shifts the equilibrium composition by inhibiting the reformation of uranium-fluorine compounds. This process has the potential to reduce the cost of reducing UF{sub 6} to uranium metal with the added benefit of being a virtually waste free process. The dry HF produced is a commodity which has industrial value.« less

Plasmachemical synthesis and evaluation of the thermal conductivity of metal-oxide compounds "Molybdenum-uranium dioxide"

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotelnikova, Alexandra A.; Karengin, Alexander G.; Mendoza, Orlando

2018-03-01

The article represents possibility to apply oxidative and reducing plasma for plasma-chemical synthesis of metal-oxide compounds «Mo‒UO2» from water-salt mixtures «molybdic acid‒uranyl nitrate» and «molybdic acid‒ uranyl acetate». The composition of water-salt mixture was calculated and the conditions ensuring plasma-chemical synthesis of «Mo‒UO2» compounds were determined. Calculations were carried out at atmospheric pressure over a wide range of temperatures (300-4000 K), with the use of various plasma coolants (air, hydrogen). The heat conductivity coefficients of metal-oxide compounds «Mo‒UO2» consisting of continuous component (molybdenum matrix) are calculated. Inclusions from ceramics in the form of uranium dioxide were ordered in the matrix. Particular attention is paid to methods for calculating the coefficients of thermal conductivity of these compounds with the use of different models. Calculated results were compared with the experimental data.

Silver Hazards to Fish, Wildlife, and Invertebrates: A Synoptic Review

USGS Publications Warehouse

Eisler, R.

1996-01-01

Ecological and toxicological aspects of silver (Ag) in the environment are briefly summarized with an emphasis on natural resources. Elevated silver concentrations in biota occur in the vicinities of sewage outfalls, electroplating plants, mine waste sites, and silver-iodide seeded areas; in the United States, the photography industry is the major source of anthropogenic silver discharges into the biosphere. Silver and its compounds are not known to be mutagenic, teratogenic, or carcinogenic. Under normal routes of exposure, silver does not pose serious environmental health problems to humans at less than 50.0 ug total Ag/L drinking water or 10.0 ug per cubic meter air. Free silver ion, however, was lethal to representative species of sensitive aquatic plants, invertebrates, and teleosts at nominal water concentrations of 1.2 to 4.9 ug/L; sublethal effects were significant between 0.17 and 0.6 ug/L. Silver was harmful to poultry at concentrations as low as 1.8 mg total Ag/kg whole egg fresh weight by way of injection, 100.0 mg total Ag/L in drinking water, or 200.0 mg total Ag/kg in diets; sensitive mammals were adversely affected at total silver concentrations as low as 250.0 ug/L in drinking water, 6.0 mg/kg in diets, or 13.9 mg/kg whole body.

Concurrent In Vitro Release of Silver Sulfadiazine and Bupivacaine From Semi-Interpenetrating Networks for Wound Management

PubMed Central

Kleinbeck, Kyle R.; Bader, Rebecca A.; Kao, Weiyuan John

2013-01-01

In situ photopolymerized semi-interpenetrating networks (sIPNs) composed of poly(ethylene glycol) and gelatin are promising multifunctional matrices for a regenerative medicine approach to dermal wound treatment. In addition to previously demonstrated efficacy in critical defects, sIPNs also function as drug delivery matrices for compounds loaded as either soluble or covalently linked components. Simultaneous release of silver sulfadiazine and bupivacaine from the sIPN would provide multiple-hit management of dermal wounds that minimizes infection, and manages pain along with sIPN absorption of exudates and facilitation of epidermal regrowth. We characterized the release of soluble silver sulfadiazine and bupivacaine and compared it with an established release model. Efficacy of released silver sulfadiazine was confirmed in vitro on Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin resistant S. aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Bupivacaine loaded without silver sulfadiazine showed incomplete release, whereas simultaneous loading with silver sulfadiazine facilitated 100% bupivacaine release. Silver sulfadiazine released at 98% without bupivacaine and 96% with bupivacaine. Silver sulfadiazine released onto bacterial cultures inhibited all three strains dose dependently. sIPNs effectively release bupivacaine and silver sulfadiazine while maintaining the antimicrobial activity of silver sulfadiazine. Drug loaded sIPNs have potential to improve wound management by providing multi-drug delivery along with an effective wound treatment. PMID:19060724

Laboratory-scale uranium RF plasma confinement experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roman, W. C.

1976-01-01

An experimental investigation was conducted using 80 kW and 1.2 MW RF induction heater facilities to aid in developing the technology necessary for designing a self-critical fissioning uranium plasma core reactor. Pure uranium hexafluoride (UF6) was injected into argon-confined, steady-state, RF-heated plasmas in different uranium plasma confinement tests to investigate the characteristics of plamas core nuclear reactors. The objectives were: (1) to confine as high a density of uranium vapor as possible within the plasma while simultaneously minimizing the uranium compound wall deposition; (2) to develop and test materials and handling techniques suitable for use with high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous UF6; and (3) to develop complementary diagnostic instrumentation and measurement techniques to characterize the uranium plasma and residue deposited on the test chamber components. In all tests, the plasma was a fluid-mechanically-confined vortex-type contained within a fused-silica cylindrical test chamber. The test chamber peripheral wall was 5.7 cm ID by 10 cm long.

Engineered Escherichia coli Silver-Binding Periplasmic Protein That Promotes Silver Tolerance

PubMed Central

Hall Sedlak, Ruth; Hnilova, Marketa; Grosh, Carolynn; Fong, Hanson; Baneyx, Francois; Schwartz, Dan; Sarikaya, Mehmet; Tamerler, Candan

2012-01-01

Silver toxicity is a problem that microorganisms face in medical and environmental settings. Through exposure to silver compounds, some bacteria have adapted to growth in high concentrations of silver ions. Such adapted microbes may be dangerous as pathogens but, alternatively, could be potentially useful in nanomaterial-manufacturing applications. While naturally adapted isolates typically utilize efflux pumps to achieve metal resistance, we have engineered a silver-tolerant Escherichia coli strain by the use of a simple silver-binding peptide motif. A silver-binding peptide, AgBP2, was identified from a combinatorial display library and fused to the C terminus of the E. coli maltose-binding protein (MBP) to yield a silver-binding protein exhibiting nanomolar affinity for the metal. Growth experiments performed in the presence of silver nitrate showed that cells secreting MBP-AgBP2 into the periplasm exhibited silver tolerance in a batch culture, while those expressing a cytoplasmic version of the fusion protein or MBP alone did not. Transmission electron microscopy analysis of silver-tolerant cells revealed the presence of electron-dense silver nanoparticles. This is the first report of a specifically engineered metal-binding peptide exhibiting a strong in vivo phenotype, pointing toward a novel ability to manipulate bacterial interactions with heavy metals by the use of short and simple peptide motifs. Engineered metal-ion-tolerant microorganisms such as this E. coli strain could potentially be used in applications ranging from remediation to interrogation of biomolecule-metal interactions in vivo. PMID:22286990

Mechanism of action of coumarin and silver(I)-coumarin complexes against the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans.

PubMed

Thati, Bhumika; Noble, Andy; Rowan, Raymond; Creaven, Bernadette S; Walsh, Maureen; McCann, Malachy; Egan, Denise; Kavanagh, Kevin

2007-08-01

The anti-fungal activity and mode of action of a range of silver(I)-coumarin complexes was examined. The most potent silver(I)-coumarin complexes, namely 7-hydroxycoumarin-3-carboxylatosilver(I), 6-hydroxycoumarin-3-carboxylatosilver(I) and 4-oxy-3-nitrocoumarinbis(1,10-phenanthroline)silver(I), had MIC80 values of between 69.1 and 4.6 microM against the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans. These compounds also reduced respiration, lowered the ergosterol content of cells and increased the trans-membrane leakage of amino acids. A number of the complexes disrupted cytochrome synthesis in the cell and induced the appearance of morphological features consistent with cell death by apoptosis. These compounds appear to act by disrupting the synthesis of cytochromes which directly affects the cell's ability to respire. A reduction in respiration leads to a depletion in ergosterol biosynthesis and a consequent disruption of the integrity of the cell membrane. Disruption of cytochrome biosynthesis may induce the onset of apoptosis which has been shown previously to be triggered by alteration in the location of cytochrome c. Silver(I)-coumarin complexes demonstrate good anti-fungal activity and manifest a mode of action distinct to that of the conventional azole and polyene drugs thus raising the possibility of their use when resistance to conventional drug has emerged or in combination with such drugs.

Ylide Ligands as Building Blocks for Bioactive Group 11 Metal Complexes.

PubMed

Gimeno, M Concepción; Johnson, Alice; Marzo, Isabel

2018-05-22

The reactivity of the phosphonium salt, (cyanomethyl)triphenylphosphonium chloride, and the ylide, triphenylphosphoniumcyanomethylide, towards group eleven metal complexes is described. Mononuclear neutral gold(I) and gold(III) complexes of the type [AuX{CH(CN)PPh3}] or [AuX3{CH(CN)PPh3}], and cationic derivatives such as [AuL{CH(CN)PPh3}]X have been prepared. Surprisingly the cationic gold species could only be prepared with ligands with a large steric hindrance such as bulky NHCs or the JohnPhos phosphine, in contrast with silver and copper derivatives which have dimeric structures with coordination to the cyano group of the ylide. Bis(ylide)metal complexes have been synthesised in which a different structure is observed for gold compared to copper and silver. While gold shows mononuclear species, the silver complex presents a bidimensional polymeric structure as a result of further coordination of the silver centre to the nitrogen of the cyano group. These complexes possess two chiral centres and the gold compound is obtained as a mixture of diastereoisomers, whereas the copper and silver derivatives afford only one diastereroisomer. These compounds were screened for the in vitro cytotoxic activity against the human lung carcinoma cell line (A549). The IC50 values reveal an excellent cytotoxic activity for these metal complexes compared with cisplatin. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Silver halide sensitized gelatin process effects in holographic lenses recorded on Slavich PFG-01 plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collados, Maria Victoria; Arias, Isabel; García, Ana; Atencia, Jesús; Quintanilla, Manuel

2003-02-01

In this work we study the feasibility of using silver halide sensitized gelatin based on PFG-01 (Slavich) emulsions to construct uniaxial compound lenses. This processing is able to introduce variations in the thickness and refractive index of the emulsion. We prove that these changes are not sufficient to provide the observed variations in Bragg conditions in the reconstruction and that a shear-type effect must exist to explain the performance of processed emulsions. We study the characteristics of a compound lens, obtaining acceptable image quality, good resolution, and the typical field limitation of volume holographic elements.

Implementation of ICP-MS protocols for uranium urinary measurements in worker monitoring.

PubMed

Baglan, N; Cossonnet, C; Trompier, F; Ritt, J; Bérard, P

1999-10-01

The uranium concentration in human urine spiked with natural uranium and rat urine containing metabolized depleted uranium was determined by ICP-MS. The use of ICP-MS was investigated without any chemical treatment or after the different stages of a purification protocol currently carried out for routine monitoring. In the case of spiked urine, the measured uranium concentrations were consistent with those certified by an intercomparison network in radiotoxicological analysis (PROCORAD) and with those obtained by alpha spectrometry in the case of the urine containing metabolized uranium. The quantitative information which could be obtained in the different protocols investigated shows the extent to which ICP-MS provides greater flexibility for setting up appropriate monitoring approaches in radiation protection routines and accidental situations. This is due to the combination of high sensitivity and the accuracy with which traces of uranium in urine can be determined in a shorter time period. Moreover, it has been shown that ICP-MS measurement can be used to quantify the 235U isotope, which is useful for characterizing the nature of the uranium compound, but difficult to perform using alpha spectrometry.

Use of an ion mobility spectrometer for detecting uranium compounds

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McLain, Derek R.; Steeb, Jennifer L.; Smith, Nicholas A.

The safeguards community currently lacks a method to rapidly determine the chemical form of radioactive and non-radioactive compounds in real time during inspection activities. Chemical speciation identification can provide important information on both the types of materials that are collected during environmental sampling and can inform inspectors as to where to focus efforts during inspections or complementary access visits. Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) is an established field technique for the detection of explosives, narcotics, and other organic compounds. More recently, electrospray ionization (ESI) has been used to introduce inorganic compounds to IMS instruments for analysis. These techniques have shown themore » ability to supply chemical information about the compounds being analyzed. Although these laboratory based instruments use a liquid-based injection system, there is evidence in the literature of unaltered and intact pharmaceutical tablets being volatilized and ionized in open atmosphere using heat and a Ni-63 source. Lastly, this work determined that a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) IMS could be used for the identification of solid uranium compounds directly after sampling using a COTS sample swipe.« less

Use of an ion mobility spectrometer for detecting uranium compounds

DOE PAGES

McLain, Derek R.; Steeb, Jennifer L.; Smith, Nicholas A.

2018-03-09

The safeguards community currently lacks a method to rapidly determine the chemical form of radioactive and non-radioactive compounds in real time during inspection activities. Chemical speciation identification can provide important information on both the types of materials that are collected during environmental sampling and can inform inspectors as to where to focus efforts during inspections or complementary access visits. Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) is an established field technique for the detection of explosives, narcotics, and other organic compounds. More recently, electrospray ionization (ESI) has been used to introduce inorganic compounds to IMS instruments for analysis. These techniques have shown themore » ability to supply chemical information about the compounds being analyzed. Although these laboratory based instruments use a liquid-based injection system, there is evidence in the literature of unaltered and intact pharmaceutical tablets being volatilized and ionized in open atmosphere using heat and a Ni-63 source. Lastly, this work determined that a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) IMS could be used for the identification of solid uranium compounds directly after sampling using a COTS sample swipe.« less

Timber industry waste-teak ( Tectona grandis Linn.) leaf extract mediated synthesis of antibacterial silver nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Devadiga, Aishwarya; Shetty, K. Vidya; Saidutta, M. B.

2015-08-01

The current research article emphasizes efficacious use of teak leaves, an agro -biowaste from world's premier hardwood timber industry, for "green" synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Bioactive compounds of the leaves act as prolific reducing and stabilizing agents in AgNP synthesis. The characterization of the AgNPs synthesized using teak leaves revealed that the particles are spherical with an average size of 28 nm and the presence of bioactive compounds present in teak leaf extract as capping agents on the nanoparticles. A prominent decrease in the content of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, antioxidants and flavonoids after the biosynthesis of AgNPs signifies that these class of compounds act as reductants and stabilizers during biosynthesis. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were also successfully evaluated for their antibacterial characteristics against waterborne pathogens, E. coli and S. aureus, with minimum inhibitory concentration of 25.6 μg/mL. Exploitation of agrowaste resources for synthesis of AgNPs curtails indiscriminate usage of food and commercial plant materials, rather contributing a sustainable way for effective plant waste biomass utilization and management. The biosynthesized AgNps have potential application in water purifiers, antibacterial fabrics, sports wear and in cosmetics as antibacterial agent and the process used for its synthesis being greener is highly beneficial from environmental, energy consumption and economic perspectives.

COORDINATION COMPOUND-SOLVENT EXTRACTION PROCESS FOR URANIUM RECOVERY

DOEpatents

Reas, W.H.

1959-03-10

A method is presented for the separation of uranium from aqueous solutions containing a uranyl salt and thorium. Thc separation is effected by adding to such solutions an organic complexing agent, and then contacting the solution with an organic solvent in which the organic complexing agent is soluble. By use of the proper complexing agent in the proper concentrations uranium will be complexed and subsequently removed in the organic solvent phase, while the thorium remains in the aqueous phase. Mentioned as suitable organic complexing agents are antipyrine, bromoantipyrine, and pyramidon.

Thermodynamic properties of selected uranium compounds and aqueous species at 298.15 K and 1 bar and at higher temperatures; preliminary models for the origin of coffinite deposits

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hemingway, B.S.

1982-01-01

Thermodynamic values for 110 uranium-bearing phases and 28 aqueous uranium solution species (298.15 K and l bar) are tabulated based upon evaluated experimental data (largely from calorimetric experiments) and estimated values. Molar volume data are given for most of the solid phases. Thermodynamic values for 16 uranium-bearing phases are presented for higher temperatures in the form of and as a supplement to U.S. Geological Survey Bulletin 1452 (Robie et al., 1979). The internal consistency of the thermodynamic values reported herein is dependent upon the reliability of the experimental results for several uranium phases that have been used as secondary calorimetric reference phases. The data for the reference phases and for those phases evaluated with respect to the secondary reference phases are discussed. A preliminary model for coffinite formation has been proposed together with an estimate of the free energy of formation of coffinite. Free energy values are estimated for several other uranium-bearing silicate phases that have been reported as secondary uranium phases associated with uranium ore deposits and that could be expected to develop wherever uranium is leached by groundwaters.

Biosynthesis, characterization and cytotoxic effect of plant mediated silver nanoparticles using Morinda citrifolia root extract.

PubMed

Suman, T Y; Radhika Rajasree, S R; Kanchana, A; Elizabeth, S Beena

2013-06-01

Silver has been used since time to control bodily infection, prevent food spoilage and heal wounds by preventing infection. The present study aims at an environmental friendly method of synthesizing silver nanoparticles, from the root of Morinda citrifolia; without involving chemical agents associated with environmental toxicity. The obtained nanoparticles were characterized by UV-vis absorption spectroscopy with an intense surface plasmon resonance band at 413 nm clearly reveals the formation of silver nanoparticles. Fourier transmission infra red spectroscopy (FTIR) showed nanopartilces were capped with plant compounds. Field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that the spherical nature of the silver nanoparticles with a size of 30-55 nm. The X-ray diffraction spectrum XRD pattern clearly indicates that the silver nanoparticles formed in the present synthesis were crystalline in nature. In addition these biologically synthesized nanoparticles were also proved to exhibit excellent cytotoxic effect on HeLa cell. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nanoparticles in treatment of thermal injured rats: Is it safe?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melo, P. S.; Marcato, P. D.; Huber, S. C.; Ferreira, I. R.; de Paula, L. B.; Almeida, A. B. A.; Durán, N.; Torsoni, S.; Seabra, A. B.; Alves, O. L.

2011-07-01

The aim of this study was to assess whether thermal trauma induced oxidative stress altered the balance between oxidant and antioxidant systems in the blood of burn wound rats in the absence and presence of silver nanoparticles and S-nitrosoglutathione, GSNO. Free silver nanoparticles, free GSNO and silver nanoparticles + GSNO had no cytotoxic effects. Under anesthesia, the shaved dorsum of the rats was exposed to 90°C (burn group) water bath. Studied compounds were administered topically immediately and at 28 days after the burn injury, four times a day. Silver nanoparticles and silver nanoparticles + GSNO were no toxic in vitro and in vivo. There were no significant differences in the levels of urea, creatinine, aminotransferases and hematological parameters, in control-burn groups (free silver nanoparticles) and treated-burn groups (free GSNO or silver nanoparticles + GSNO). There were no differences in lipid peroxidation and in the levels of protein carbonyls and glutathione, used as oxidative stress markers. A little inflammatory cell response, papillary dermis vascularization, fibroblasts differentiated into contractile myofibroblasts and the presence of a large amount of extracellular matrix were evidenced in treated groups following skin injury. These results indicate that silver nanoparticles and GSNO may provide an effective action on wound healing.

Carboxylate and amino group coated silver nanoparticles as joining materials for copper-to-copper silver joints.

PubMed

Oestreicher, A; Röhrich, T; Lerch, M

2012-12-01

Organic silver complexes are introduced where silver is linked either with a carboxyl group or with an amino group. Upon heating, nanoparticles are generated if the respective ligands are long enough to act as stabilizing agents in the nanoparticulate regime. With decomposition and volatilization of the organic material, the sintering of silver occurs. The thermal characteristics of the carboxylates silver-n-octanoate, silver-n-decanoate, and AgOOC(CH2OCH2)2CH2OCH3 are compared with silver-n-alkylamines (n = 8, 9, and 12), and their thermal behavior is discussed based on thermogravimetry (TG) measurements. The consecutive stages of a metallization process are addressed based on the properties of AgOOC(CH2OCH2)2CH2OCH3, and the usable effects of the individual phases of this metal organic compound are analyzed by cross-sectional scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of silver joints. Selection criteria are addressed based on the thermal behavior. A mechanism for the joining process is proposed, considering formation and sintering of the nanoparticles. It was found that the bulk material can be used for low-temperature joining processes. Strong adherence to copper as a basic material can be achieved.

Thermodynamic Simulation of Equilibrium Composition of Reaction Products at Dehydration of a Technological Channel in a Uranium-Graphite Reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pavliuk, A. O.; Zagumennov, V. S.; Kotlyarevskiy, S. G.; Bespala, E. V.

2018-01-01

The problems of accumulation of nuclear fuel spills in the graphite stack in the course of operation of uranium-graphite nuclear reactors are considered. The results of thermodynamic analysis of the processes in the graphite stack at dehydration of a technological channel, fuel element shell unsealing and migration of fission products, and activation of stable nuclides in structural elements of the reactor and actinides inside the graphite moderator are given. The main chemical reactions and compounds that are produced in these modes in the reactor channel during its operation and that may be hazardous after its shutdown and decommissioning are presented. Thermodynamic simulation of the equilibrium composition is performed using the specialized code TERRA. The results of thermodynamic simulation of the equilibrium composition in different cases of technological channel dehydration in the course of the reactor operation show that, if the temperature inside the active core of the nuclear reactor increases to the melting temperature of the fuel element, oxides and carbides of nuclear fuel are produced. The mathematical model of the nonstationary heat transfer in a graphite stack of a uranium-graphite reactor in the case of the technological channel dehydration is presented. The results of calculated temperature evolution at the center of the fuel element, the replaceable graphite element, the air gap, and in the surface layer of the block graphite are given. The numerical results show that, in the case of dehydration of the technological channel in the uranium-graphite reactor with metallic uranium, the main reaction product is uranium dioxide UO2 in the condensed phase. Low probability of production of pyrophoric uranium compounds (UH3) in the graphite stack is proven, which allows one to disassemble the graphite stack without the risk of spontaneous graphite ignition in the course of decommissioning of the uranium-graphite nuclear reactor.

Determination of colloidal and dissolved silver in water samples using colorimetric solid-phase extraction.

PubMed

Hill, April A; Lipert, Robert J; Porter, Marc D

2010-03-15

The increase in bacterial resistance to antibiotics has led to resurgence in the use of silver as a biocidal agent in applications ranging from washing machine additives to the drinking water treatment system on the International Space Station (ISS). However, growing concerns about the possible toxicity of colloidal silver to bacteria, aquatic organisms and humans have led to recently issued regulations by the US EPA and FDA regarding the usage of silver. As part of an ongoing project, we have developed a rapid, simple method for determining total silver, both ionic (silver(I)) and colloidal, in 0.1-1mg/L aqueous samples, which spans the ISS potable water target of 0.3-0.5mg/L (total silver) and meets the US EPA limit of 0.1mg/L in drinking water. The method is based on colorimetric solid-phase extraction (C-SPE) and involves the extraction of silver(I) from water samples by passage through a solid-phase membrane impregnated with the colorimetric reagent DMABR (5-[4-(dimethylamino)benzylidene]rhodanine). Silver(I) exhaustively reacts with impregnated DMABR to form a colored compound, which is quantified using a handheld diffuse reflectance spectrophotometer. Total silver is determined by first passing the sample through a cartridge containing Oxone, which exhaustively oxidizes colloidal silver to dissolved silver(I). The method, which takes less than 2 min to complete and requires only approximately 1 mL of sample, has been validated through a series of tests, including a comparison with the ICP-MS analysis of a water sample from ISS that contained both silver(I) and colloidal silver. Potential earth-bound applications are also briefly discussed. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Modeling of point defects and rare gas incorporation in uranium mono-carbide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chartier, A.; Van Brutzel, L.

2007-02-01

An embedded atom method (EAM) potential has been established for uranium mono-carbide. This EAM potential was fitted on structural properties of metallic uranium and uranium mono-carbide. The formation energies of point defects, as well as activation energies for self migration, have been evaluated in order to cross-check the suitability of the potential. Assuming that the carbon vacancies are the main defects in uranium mono-carbide compounds, the migration paths and energies are consistent with experimental data selected by Catlow[C.R.A. Catlow, J. Nucl. Mater. 60 (1976) 151]. The insertion and migration energies for He, Kr and Xe have also been evaluated with available inter-atomic potentials [H.H. Andersen, P. Sigmund, Nucl. Instr. and Meth. B 38 (1965) 238]. Results show that the most stable defect configuration for rare gases is within uranium vacancies. The migration energy of an interstitial Xe is 0.5 eV, in agreement with the experimental value of 0.5 eV [Hj. Matzke, Science of advanced LMFBR fuels, Solid State Physics, Chemistry and Technology of Carbides, Nitrides and Carbonitrides of Uranium and Plutonium, North-Holland, 1986].

Thermodynamic properties of uranium in liquid gallium, indium and their alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volkovich, V. A.; Maltsev, D. S.; Yamshchikov, L. F.; Osipenko, A. G.

2015-09-01

Activity, activity coefficients and solubility of uranium was determined in gallium, indium and gallium-indium alloys containing 21.8 (eutectic), 40 and 70 wt.% In. Activity was measured at 573-1073 K employing the electromotive force method, and solubility between room temperature (or the alloy melting point) and 1073 K employing direct physical measurements. Activity coefficients were obtained from the difference of experimentally determined temperature dependencies of uranium activity and solubility. Intermetallic compounds formed in the respective alloys were characterized using X-ray diffraction. Partial and excess thermodynamic functions of uranium in the studied alloys were calculated. Liquidus lines in U-Ga and U-In phase diagrams from the side rich in gallium or indium are proposed.

Uniform deposition of uranium hexafluoride (UF6): Standardized mass deposits and controlled isotopic ratios using a thermal fluorination method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McNamara, Bruce K.; O’Hara, Matthew J.; Casella, Andrew M.

2016-07-01

Abstract: We report a convenient method for the generation of volatile uranium hexafluoride (UF6) from solid uranium oxides and other uranium compounds, followed by uniform deposition of low levels of UF6 onto sampling coupons. Under laminar flow conditions, UF6 is shown to interact with surfaces within the chamber to a highly predictable degree. We demonstrate the preparation of uranium deposits that range between ~0.01 and 470±34 ng∙cm-2. The data suggest the method can be extended to creating depositions at the sub-picogram∙cm-2 level. Additionally, the isotopic composition of the deposits can be customized by selection of the uranium source materials. Wemore » demonstrate a layering technique whereby two uranium solids, each with a different isotopic composition, are employed to form successive layers of UF6 on a surface. The result is an ultra-thin deposit of UF6 that bears an isotopic signature that is a composite of the two uranium sources. The reported deposition method has direct application to the development of unique analytical standards for nuclear safeguards and forensics.« less

Catalytic effects of silver plasmonic nanoparticles on the redox reaction leading to ABTS˙+ formation studied using UV-visible and Raman spectroscopy.

PubMed

Garcia-Leis, A; Jancura, D; Antalik, M; Garcia-Ramos, J V; Sanchez-Cortes, S; Jurasekova, Z

2016-09-29

ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) is a compound extensively employed to evaluate the free radical trapping capacity of antioxidant agents and complex mixtures such as biological fluids or foods. This evaluation is usually performed by using a colourimetric experiment, where preformed ABTS radical cation (ABTS˙ + ) molecules are reduced in the presence of an antioxidant causing an intensity decrease of the specific ABTS˙ + UV-visible absorption bands. In this work we report a strong effect of silver plasmonic nanoparticles (Ag NPs) on ABTS leading to the formation of ABTS˙ + . The reaction of ABTS with Ag NPs has been found to be dependent on the interfacial and plasmonic properties of NPs. Specifically, this reaction is pronounced in the presence of spherical nanoparticles prepared by the reduction of silver nitrate with hydroxylamine (AgH) and in the case of star-shaped silver nanoparticles (AgNS). On the other hand, spherical nanoparticles prepared by the reduction of silver nitrate with citrate apparently do not react with ABTS. Additionally, the formation of ABTS˙ + is investigated by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and the assignment of the most intense vibrational bands of this compound is performed. The SERS technique enables us to detect this radical cation at very low concentrations of ABTS (∼2 μM). Altogether, these findings allow us to suggest the use of ABTS/Ag NPs-systems as reliable and easy going substrates to test the antioxidant capacity of various compounds, even at concentrations much lower than those usually used in the spectrophotometric assays. Moreover, we have suggested that ABTS could be employed as a suitable agent to investigate the interfacial and plasmonic properties of the metal nanoparticles and, thus, to characterize the nanoparticle metal systems employed for various purposes.

Anesthetic activity and bio-guided fractionation of the essential oil of Aloysia gratissima (Gillies & Hook.) Tronc. in silver catfish Rhamdia quelen.

PubMed

Benovit, Simone C; Silva, Lenise L; Salbego, Joseânia; Loro, Vania L; Mallmann, Carlos A; Baldisserotto, Bernardo; Flores, Erico M M; Heinzmann, Berta M

2015-09-01

This work aimed to determine the efficacy of the essential oil of A. gratissima as anesthetic for silver catfish, and to perform the bio-guided fractionation of essential oil aiming to isolate compounds responsible for the noted effects. Fish were submitted to anesthesia bath with essential oil, its fractions and isolated compounds to determine time of anesthetic induction and recovery. Eugenol (50 mg L(-1)) was used as positive control. Essential oil of A. gratissima was effective as an anesthetic at concentrations of 300 to 900 mg L(-1). Fish presented involuntary muscle contractions during induction and recovery. The bio-guided fractionation of essential oil furnished E-(-)-pinocamphone, (-)-caryophyllene oxide, (-)-guaiol and (+)-spathulenol. E-(-)-pinocamphone caused the same side effects observed for essential oil. (-)-Caryophyllene oxide, (-)-guaiol and (+)-spathulenol showed only sedative effects at proportional concentrations to those of the constituents in essential oil. (+)-Spathulenol (51.2 mg L(-1)) promoted deep anesthesia without side effects. A higher concentration of (+)-spathulenol, and lower or absent amounts ofE-(-)-pinocamphone could contribute to increase the activity and safety of the essential oil of A. gratissima. (+)-Spathulenol showed potent sedative and anesthetic activities in silver catfish, and could be considered as a viable compound for the development of a new anesthetic.

Plasma core reactor simulations using RF uranium seeded argon discharges

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roman, W. C.

1975-01-01

An experimental investigation was conducted using the United Technologies Research Center (UTRC) 80 kW and 1.2 MW RF induction heater systems to aid in developing the technology necessary for designing a self-critical fissioning uranium plasma core reactor (PCR). A nonfissioning, steady-state RF-heated argon plasma seeded with pure uranium hexafluoride (UF6) was used. An overall objective was to achieve maximum confinement of uranium vapor within the plasma while simultaneously minimizing the uranium compound wall deposition. Exploratory tests were conducted using the 80 kW RF induction heater with the test chamber at approximately atmospheric pressure and discharge power levels on the order of 10 kW. Four different test chamber flow configurations were tested to permit selection of the configuration offering the best confinement characteristics for subsequent tests at higher pressure and power in the 1.2 MW RF induction heater facility.

Adsorbed States of phosphonate derivatives of N-heterocyclic aromatic compounds, imidazole, thiazole, and pyridine on colloidal silver: comparison with a silver electrode.

PubMed

Podstawka, Edyta; Olszewski, Tomasz K; Boduszek, Bogdan; Proniewicz, Leonard M

2009-09-03

Here, we report a systematic surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) study of the structures of phosphonate derivatives of the N-heterocyclic aromatic compounds imidazole (ImMeP ([hydroxy(1H-imidazol-5-yl)methyl]phosphonic acid) and (ImMe)(2)P (bis[hydroxy-(1H-imidazol-4-yl)-methyl]phosphinic acid)), thiazole (BAThMeP (butylaminothiazol-2-yl-methyl)phosphonic acid) and BzAThMeP (benzylaminothiazol-2-yl-methyl)phosphonic acid)), and pyridine ((PyMe)(2)P (bis[(hydroxypyridin-3-yl-methyl)]phosphinic acid)) adsorbed on nanometer-sized colloidal particles. We compared these structures to those on a roughened silver electrode surface to determine the relationship between the adsorption strength and the geometry. For example, we showed that all of these biomolecules interact with the colloidal surface through aromatic rings. However, for BzAThMeP, a preferential interaction between the benzene ring and the colloidal silver surface is observed more so than that between the thiazole ring and this substrate. The PC(OH)C fragment does not take part in the adsorption process, and the phosphonate moiety of ImMeP and (ImMe)(2)P, being removed from the surface, only assists in this process.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from aqueous Aegle marmelos leaf extract

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jagajjanani Rao, K.; Paria, Santanu, E-mail: santanuparia@yahoo.com

Graphical abstract: Silver nanoparticles capped with polyphenols present in Aegle marmelos leaf extract. Display Omitted Highlights: ► Silver nanoparticles are synthesized using Aegle marmelos leaf extract in aqueous media. ► Reduction reaction is fast and occurs at room temperature. ► The presence of polyphenols acts as in situ capping agent. -- Abstract: Synthesis of nanoparticles by green route is an emerging technique drawing more attention recently because of several advantages over the convention chemical routes. The present study reports one-pot synthesis and in situ stabilization of silver nanoparticles using Aegle marmelos leaf extract. Nanoparticles of almost uniform spherical size (∼60more » nm) were synthesized within ∼25 min reaction time at room temperature. The size of particles depends on the ratio of AgNO{sub 3} and leaf extract. The crystallinity, size, and shape of the nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering, and scanning electron microscopy respectively. The size stability was attained by the capping effect of polyphenolic tannin compound, procatacheuate in the extract. The capped polyphenols can be removed from the particle surface by simple NaOH/methanol wash. The involvement of phenolic compounds in metal ion reduction and capping were supported by UV–visible spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, high performance liquid chromatography, and zeta potential measurements.« less

Silver enhancement of nanogold and undecagold

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hainfield, J.F.; Furuya, F.R.

1995-07-01

A recent advance in immunogold technology has been the use of molecular gold instead of colloidal gold. A number of advantages are realized by this approach, such as stable covalent, site-specific attachment, small probe size and absence of aggregates for improved penetration. Silver enhancement has led to improved and unique results for electron and light microscopy, as well as their use with blots and gels. Most previous work with immunogold silver staining has been done with colloidal gold particles. More recently, large gold compounds (``clusters``) having a definite number of gold atoms and defined organic shell, have been used, frequentlymore » with improved results. These gold dusters, large compared to simple compounds, are, however, at the small end of the colloidal gold scale in size; undecagold is 0.8 nm and Nanogold is 1.4 nm. They may be used in practically all applications where colloidal gold is used (Light and electron microscopy, dot blots, etc.) and in some unique applications, where at least the larger colloidal golds don`t work, such as running gold labeled proteins on gels (which are later detected by silver enhancement). The main differences between gold clusters and colloidal golds are the small size of the dusters and their covalent attachment to antibodies or other molecules.« less

Uranium-bearing lignite in southwestern North Dakota

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moore, George W.; Melin, Robert E.; Kepferle, Roy C.

1954-01-01

Uranium-bearing lignite was mapped and sampled in the Bullion Butte, Sentinel Butte, HT Butte, and Chalky Buttes areas in southwestern North Dakota. The uraniferous lignite occurs at several stratigraphic positions in the Sentinel Butte member of the Fort Union formation of Paleocene age. A total of 261 samples were collected for uranium analysis from 85 localities, Lignite contained as much as 0.045 percent uranium, 10.0 percent ash, and 0.45 percent uranium in the ash was found although the average is lower. Inferred reserves for the four areas examined are estimated to be about 27 million tons of lignite in beds about 2 feet thick and containing more than 3000 tons of uranium. The lignite in beds about 2 feet thick and containing more than 3000 tons of uranium. The lignite averages more than 30 percent ash in the surface samples. The principal factor that seems to influence the uranium content of lignite beds is their stratigraphic position below the overlying rocks of the White River group of Oligocene age. All of the uranium-bearing beds closely underlie the base of the White River group. Although this relationship seems to be the controlling factor, the relative concentration of uranium may be modified by other conditions. Beds enclosed in permeable rocks are more uraniferous than beds in impermeable rocks, and thin beds have higher content of uranium than thick beds. In addition, thick lignite beds commonly have a top=preferential distribution of uranium. These and other factors suggest that the uranium is secondary and this it was introduced by ground water which had leached uranium from volcanic ash in the overlying rocks of the White River group. It is thought that the uranium is held in the lignite as part of a metallo-organic compound.

Precise micropatterning of silver nanoparticles on plastic substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ammosova, Lena; Jiang, Yu; Suvanto, Mika; Pakkanen, Tapani A.

2017-04-01

Conventional fabrication methods to obtain metal patterns on polymer substrates are restricted by high operating temperature and complex preparation steps. The present study demonstrates a simple yet versatile method for preparation of silver nanoparticle micropatterns on polymer substrates with various surface geometry. With the microworking robot technique, we were able not only to directly structure the surface, but also precisely deposit silver nanoparticle ink on the desired surface location with the minimum usage of ink material. The prepared silver nanoparticle ink, containing silver cations and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a reducing agent, yields silver nanoparticle micropatterns on plastic substrates at low sintering temperature without any contamination. The influence of the ink behaviour was studied, such as substrate wettability, ink volume, and sintering temperature. The ultraviolet visible (UV-vis), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) measurements revealed the formation of micropatterns with uniformly distributed silver nanoparticles. The prepared patterns are expected to have a broad range of applications in optics, medicine, and sensor devices owing to the unique properties of silver. Furthermore, the deposition of a chemical compound, which is different from the substrate material, not only adds a fourth dimension to the prestructured three-dimensional (3D) surfaces, but also opens new application areas to the conventional surface structures.

In Vitro Assessment of the Antibacterial Potential of Silver Nano-Coatings on Cotton Gauzes for Prevention of Wound Infections

PubMed Central

Paladini, Federica; Di Franco, Cinzia; Panico, Angelica; Scamarcio, Gaetano; Sannino, Alessandro; Pollini, Mauro

2016-01-01

Multidrug-resistant organisms are increasingly implicated in acute and chronic wound infections, thus compromising the chance of therapeutic options. The resistance to conventional antibiotics demonstrated by some bacterial strains has encouraged new approaches for the prevention of infections in wounds and burns, among them the use of silver compounds and nanocrystalline silver. Recently, silver wound dressings have become widely accepted in wound healing centers and are commercially available. In this work, novel antibacterial wound dressings have been developed through a silver deposition technology based on the photochemical synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The devices obtained are completely natural and the silver coatings are characterized by an excellent adhesion without the use of any binder. The silver-treated cotton gauzes were characterized through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) in order to verify the distribution and the dimension of the silver particles on the cotton fibers. The effectiveness of the silver-treated gauzes in reducing the bacterial growth and biofilm proliferation has been demonstrated through agar diffusion tests, bacterial enumeration test, biofilm quantification tests, fluorescence and SEM microscopy. Moreover, potential cytotoxicity of the silver coating was evaluated through 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide colorimetric assay (MTT) and the extract method on fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was performed in order to determine the silver release in different media and to relate the results to the biological characterization. All the results obtained were compared with plain gauzes as a negative control, as well as gauzes treated with a higher silver percentage as a positive control. PMID:28773531

Self-generated Local Heating Induced Nanojoining for Room Temperature Pressureless Flexible Electronic Packaging

PubMed Central

Peng, Peng; Hu, Anming; Gerlich, Adrian P.; Liu, Yangai; Zhou, Y. Norman

2015-01-01

Metallic bonding at an interface is determined by the application of heat and/or pressure. The means by which these are applied are the most critical for joining nanoscale structures. The present study considers the feasibility of room-temperature pressureless joining of copper wires using water-based silver nanowire paste. A novel mechanism of self-generated local heating within the silver nanowire paste and copper substrate system promotes the joining of silver-to-silver and silver-to-copper without any external energy input. The localized heat energy was delivered in-situ to the interfaces to promote atomic diffusion and metallic bond formation with the bulk component temperature stays near room-temperature. This local heating effect has been detected experimentally and confirmed by calculation. The joints formed at room-temperature without pressure achieve a tensile strength of 5.7 MPa and exhibit ultra-low resistivity in the range of 101.3 nOhm·m. The good conductivity of the joint is attributed to the removal of organic compounds in the paste and metallic bonding of silver-to-copper and silver-to-silver. The water-based silver nanowire paste filler material is successfully applied to various flexible substrates for room temperature bonding. The use of chemically generated local heating may become a potential method for energy in-situ delivery at micro/nanoscale. PMID:25788019

Uranium deposits in the Eureka Gulch area, Central City district, Gilpin County, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sims, P.K.; Osterwald, F.W.; Tooker, E.W.

1954-01-01

The Eureka Gulch area of the Central City district, Gilpin County, Colo., was mined for ores of gold, silver, copper, lead, and zinc; but there has been little mining activity in the area since World War I. Between 1951 and 1953 nine radioactive mine dumps were discovered in the area by the U.S. Geological Survey and by prospectors. the importance of the discoveries has not been determined as all but one of the mines are inaccessible, but the distribution, quantity, and grade of the radioactive materials found on the mine dumps indicate that the area is worth of additional exploration as a possible source of uranium ore. The uranium ans other metals are in and near steeply dipping mesothermal veins of Laramide age intrusive rocks. Pitchblende is present in at least four veins, and metatorbernite, associated at places with kosolite, is found along two veins for a linear distance of about 700 feet. The pitchblends and metatorbernite appear to be mutually exclusive and seem to occur in different veins. Colloform grains of pitchblende were deposited in the vein essentially contemporaneously with pyrite. The pitchblende is earlier in the sequence of deposition than galena and sphalerite. The metatorbernite replaces altered biotite-quartz-plagioclase gneiss and altered amphibolite, and to a lesser extent forms coatings on fractures in these rocks adjacent to the veins; the kasolite fills vugs in highly altered material and in altered wall rocks. Much of the pitchblende found on the dumps has been partly leached subsequent to mining and is out of equilibrium. Selected samples of metatorbernite-bearing rock from one mine dump contain as much as 6.11 percent uranium. The pitchblende is a primary vein mineral deposited from uranium-bearing hydrothermal solutions. The metatorbernite probably formed by oxidation, solution, and transportation of uranium from primary pitchblende, but it may be a primary mineral deposited directly from fluids of different composition from these that deposited pitchblende.

Electronic structure and fine structural features of the air-grown UNxOy on nitrogen-rich uranium nitride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Long, Zhong; Zeng, Rongguang; Hu, Yin; Liu, Jing; Wang, Wenyuan; Zhao, Yawen; Luo, Zhipeng; Bai, Bin; Wang, Xiaofang; Liu, Kezhao

2018-06-01

Oxide formation on surface of nitrogen-rich uranium nitride film/particles was investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), auger electron spectroscopy (AES), aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) coupled with electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). XPS and AES studies indicated that the oxidized layer on UN2-x film is ternary compound uranium oxynitride (UNxOy) in 5-10 nm thickness. TEM/HAADF-STEM and EELS studies revealed the UNxOy crystallizes in the FCC CaF2-type structure with the lattice parameter close to the CaF2-type UN2-x matrix. The work can provide further information to the oxidation mechanism of uranium nitride.

Uranium provinces of North America; their definition, distribution, and models

USGS Publications Warehouse

Finch, Warren Irvin

1996-01-01

Uranium resources in North America are principally in unconformity-related, quartz-pebble conglomerate, sandstone, volcanic, and phosphorite types of uranium deposits. Most are concentrated in separate, well-defined metallogenic provinces. Proterozoic quartz-pebble conglomerate and unconformity-related deposits are, respectively, in the Blind River–Elliot Lake (BRELUP) and the Athabasca Basin (ABUP) Uranium Provinces in Canada. Sandstone uranium deposits are of two principal subtypes, tabular and roll-front. Tabular sandstone uranium deposits are mainly in upper Paleozoic and Mesozoic rocks in the Colorado Plateau Uranium Province (CPUP). Roll-front sandstone uranium deposits are in Tertiary rocks of the Rocky Mountain and Intermontane Basins Uranium Province (RMIBUP), and in a narrow belt of Tertiary rocks that form the Gulf Coastal Uranium Province (GCUP) in south Texas and adjacent Mexico. Volcanic uranium deposits are concentrated in the Basin and Range Uranium Province (BRUP) stretching from the McDermitt caldera at the Oregon-Nevada border through the Marysvale district of Utah and Date Creek Basin in Arizona and south into the Sierra de Peña Blanca District, Chihuahua, Mexico. Uraniferous phosphorite occurs in Tertiary sediments in Florida, Georgia, and North and South Carolina and in the Lower Permian Phosphoria Formation in Idaho and adjacent States, but only in Florida has economic recovery been successful. The Florida Phosphorite Uranium Province (FPUP) has yielded large quantities of uranium as a byproduct of the production of phosphoric acid fertilizer. Economically recoverable quantities of copper, gold, molybdenum, nickel, silver, thorium, and vanadium occur with the uranium deposits in some provinces.Many major epochs of uranium mineralization occurred in North America. In the BRELUP, uranium minerals were concentrated in placers during the Early Proterozoic (2,500–2,250 Ma). In the ABUP, the unconformity-related deposits were most likely formed initially by hot saline formational water related to diagenesis (»1,400 to 1,330 Ma) and later reconcentrated by hydrothermal events at »1,280–»1,000, »575, and »225 Ma. Subsequently in North America, only minor uranium mineralization occurred until after continental collision in Permian time (255 Ma). Three principal epochs of uranium mineralization occurred in the CPUP: (1) » 210–200 Ma, shortly after Late Triassic sedimentation; (2) »155–150 Ma, in Late Jurassic time; and (3) » 135 Ma, after sedimentation of the Upper Jurassic Morrison Formation. The most likely source of the uranium was silicic volcaniclastics for the three epochs derived from a volcanic island arc at the west edge of the North American continent. Uranium mineralization occurred during Eocene, Miocene, and Pliocene times in the RMIBUP, GCUP, and BRUP. Volcanic activity took place near the west edge of the continent during and shortly after sedimentation of the host rocks in these three provinces. Some volcanic centers in the Sierra de Peña Blanca district within the BRUP may have provided uranium-rich ash to host rocks in the GCUP.Most of the uranium provinces in North America appear to have a common theme of close associations to volcanic activity related to the development of the western margin of the North American plate. The south and west margin of the Canadian Shield formed the leading edge of the progress of uranium source development and mineralization from the Proterozoic to the present. The development of favorable hosts and sources of uranium is related to various tectonic elements developed over time. Periods of major uranium mineralization in North America were Early Proterozoic, Middle Proterozoic, Late Triassic–Early Jurassic, Early Cretaceous, Oligocene, and Miocene. Tertiary mineralization was the most pervasive, covering most of Western and Southern North America. 

Octahedral molecular sieve sorbents and catalysts

DOEpatents

Li, Liyu [Richland, WA; King, David L [Richland, WA

2010-04-20

Octahedral molecular sieve sorbents and catalysts are disclosed, including silver hollandite and cryptomelane. These materials can be used, for example, to catalyze the oxidation of CO.sub.x (e.g., CO), NO.sub.x (e.g., NO), hydrocarbons (e.g., C.sub.3H.sub.6) and/or sulfur-containing compounds. The disclosed materials also may be used to catalyze other reactions, such as the reduction of NO.sub.2. In some cases, the disclosed materials are capable of sorbing certain products from the reactions they catalyze. Silver hollandite, in particular, can be used to remove a substantial portion of certain sulfur-containing compounds from a gas or liquid by catalysis and/or sorption. The gas or liquid can be, for example, natural gas or a liquid hydrocarbon.

Method for forming hermetic seals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gallagher, Brian D.

1987-01-01

The firmly adherent film of bondable metal, such as silver, is applied to the surface of glass or other substrate by decomposing a layer of solution of a thermally decomposable metallo-organic deposition (MOD) compound such as silver neodecanoate in xylene. The MOD compound thermally decomposes into metal and gaseous by-products. Sealing is accomplished by depositing a layer of bonding metal, such as solder or a brazing alloy, on the metal film and then forming an assembly with another high melting point metal surface such as a layer of Kovar. When the assembly is heated above the temperature of the solder, the solder flows, wets the adjacent surfaces and forms a hermetic seal between the metal film and metal surface when the assembly cools.

Silver-Catalyzed [2+1] Cyclopropenation of Alkynes with Unstable Diazoalkanes: N-Nosylhydrazones as Room-Temperature Decomposable Diazo Surrogates.

PubMed

Liu, Zhaohong; Li, Qiangqiang; Liao, Peiqiu; Bi, Xihe

2017-04-06

The [2+1] cycloaddition of alkynes with diazo compounds represents one of the most powerful and reliable methods for the construction of cyclopropenes. However, it remains a formidable challenge to accomplish the cyclopropenation of alkynes with non-stabilized diazoalkanes, owing to the fact that such compounds are unstable and prone to detonation. Herein, we report a general silver-catalyzed cyclopropenation reaction of alkynes with unstable diazoalkanes, by for the first time the discovery and application of N-nosylhydrazones as room-temperature decomposiable diazo surrogates. This method allows for the efficient assembly a wide variety of cyclopropene derivatives that are otherwise difficult to access by conventional methods. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Silver nanoparticles are broad-spectrum bactericidal and virucidal compounds

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

The advance in nanotechnology has enabled us to utilize particles in the size of the nanoscale. This has created new therapeutic horizons, and in the case of silver, the currently available data only reveals the surface of the potential benefits and the wide range of applications. Interactions between viral biomolecules and silver nanoparticles suggest that the use of nanosystems may contribute importantly for the enhancement of current prevention of infection and antiviral therapies. Recently, it has been suggested that silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) bind with external membrane of lipid enveloped virus to prevent the infection. Nevertheless, the interaction of AgNPs with viruses is a largely unexplored field. AgNPs has been studied particularly on HIV where it was demonstrated the mechanism of antiviral action of the nanoparticles as well as the inhibition the transmission of HIV-1 infection in human cervix organ culture. This review discusses recent advances in the understanding of the biocidal mechanisms of action of silver Nanoparticles. PMID:21812950

Red tea leaves infusion as a reducing and stabilizing agent in silver nanoparticles synthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pluta, K.; Tryba, A. M.; Malina, D.; Sobczak-Kupiec, A.

2017-12-01

Due to the unique properties of silver nanoparticles there is growing interest in their applications. Current trends in nanotechnology are focused on developing a new technique to synthesize nanoparticles using biological methods associated with the use of plant extracts, fungi, bacteria or essential oils. These methods are a promising alternative to conventional approaches which can minimize the use of hazardous substances. The silver nanoparticles synthesis using red tea infusion as a reducing and stabilizing agent and their characteristics have been described. Total antioxidant capacity using DPPH radical and total content of phenolic compounds by Folin-Ciocalteau method were measured in tea infusion. Synthesis of silver nanoparticles was carried out using chemical reduction at various temperatures. Furthermore, the effect of tea infusion volume added to reaction mixture on nanoparticles’ properties was investigated. Finally, nanosilver suspensions were characterized by UV-vis spectrophotometer, dynamic light scattering (DLS) scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Moreover, phytotoxicity of silver nanoparticles was determined using Phytotestkit microbiotest.

Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activity of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by Leaf Extract of Erythrina suberosa (Roxb.).

PubMed

Mohanta, Yugal K; Panda, Sujogya K; Jayabalan, Rasu; Sharma, Nanaocha; Bastia, Akshaya K; Mohanta, Tapan K

2017-01-01

In this experiment, biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using aqueous leaf extract of Erythrina suberosa (Roxb.). The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticle was continuously followed by UV-vis spectrophotometric analysis. The response of the phytoconstituents resides in E. suberusa during synthesis of stable AgNPs were analyzed by ATR- fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Further, the size, charge, and polydispersity nature of AgNPs were studied using dynamic light scattering spectroscopy. The morphology of the nanoparticles was determined by scanning electron microscopy. Current result shows core involvement of plant extracts containing glycosides, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds played a crucial role in the biosynthesis of AgNPs. The antimicrobial activities of silver nanoparticles were evaluated against different pathogenic bacterium and fungi. The antioxidant property was studied by radical scavenging (DPPH) assay and cytotoxic activity was evaluated against A-431 osteosarcoma cell line by MTT assay. The characteristics of the synthesized silver nanoparticles suggest their application as a potential antimicrobial and anticancer agent.

Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activity of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by Leaf Extract of Erythrina suberosa (Roxb.)

PubMed Central

Mohanta, Yugal K.; Panda, Sujogya K.; Jayabalan, Rasu; Sharma, Nanaocha; Bastia, Akshaya K.; Mohanta, Tapan K.

2017-01-01

In this experiment, biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using aqueous leaf extract of Erythrina suberosa (Roxb.). The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticle was continuously followed by UV-vis spectrophotometric analysis. The response of the phytoconstituents resides in E. suberusa during synthesis of stable AgNPs were analyzed by ATR- fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Further, the size, charge, and polydispersity nature of AgNPs were studied using dynamic light scattering spectroscopy. The morphology of the nanoparticles was determined by scanning electron microscopy. Current result shows core involvement of plant extracts containing glycosides, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds played a crucial role in the biosynthesis of AgNPs. The antimicrobial activities of silver nanoparticles were evaluated against different pathogenic bacterium and fungi. The antioxidant property was studied by radical scavenging (DPPH) assay and cytotoxic activity was evaluated against A-431 osteosarcoma cell line by MTT assay. The characteristics of the synthesized silver nanoparticles suggest their application as a potential antimicrobial and anticancer agent. PMID:28367437

Solubility limits of dibutyl phosphoric acid in uranium-nitric acid solutions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pierce, R.A.

2000-01-04

The Savannah River Site has enriched uranium (EU) solution that has been stored since being purified in its solvent extraction processes. The concentrations in solution are approximately 6 g/L U and 0.1 M nitric acid. Residual tributylphosphate in solution has slowly hydrolyzed to form dibutyl phosphoric acid (HDBP) at concentrations averaging 30--50 mg/L. Dibutyl phosphoric acid, in turn, is in equilibrium with (HDBP){sub 2} and DBP{sup {minus}}. Uranium can form compounds with the dibutylphosphate ion (DBP{sup {minus}}) which have limited solubility, thereby creating a nuclear criticality safety issue. Literature reports and earlier SRTC tests have shown that it is feasiblemore » to precipitate U-DBP solid during the storage and processing of EU solutions. As a result, a series of solubility experiments were run at nitric acid concentrations from 0--4.0 M HNO{sub 3}, uranium at 0--90 g/L, and temperatures from 0--30 C. The data shows temperature and nitric acid concentration dependence consistent with what would be expected. With respect to uranium concentration, U-DBP solubility passes through a minimum between 6 and 12 g/L U at the acid concentrations and temperatures studied. However, the minimum shows a slight shift toward lower uranium concentrations at lower nitric acid concentrations. The shifts in solubility are strongly dependent upon the overall ionic strength of the solution. The data also reveal a shift to higher DBP solubility above 0.5 M HNO{sub 3} for both 6 g/L and 12 g/L uranium solutions. Analysis of U-DBP solids from the tests identified distinct differences between precipitates from less than 0.5 M solutions and those from greater than 4 M acid. Analyses identified UO{sub 2}(DBP){sub 2} as the dominant compound present at low acid concentrations in accordance with literature reports. As the acid concentration increases, the crystalline UO{sub 2}(DBP){sub 2} shows molecular substitutions and an increase in amorphous content.« less

Mineral Resources of the Morey and Fandango Wilderness Study Areas, Nye County, Nevada

USGS Publications Warehouse

John, David A.; Nash, J. Thomas; Plouff, Donald; McDonnell, John R.

1987-01-01

The Morey (NV-060-191) and Fandango (NV-060-190) Wilderness Study Areas are located in the northern Hot Creek Range about 25 mi north of Warm Springs, Nev. At the request of the Bureau of Land Management, 46,300 acres of the Morey and Fandango Wilderness Study Areas were studied. In this report, the area studied is referred to as 'the wilderness study area', or simply 'the study area'. Geologic, geochemical, geophysical, and mineral surveys were conducted by the USGS and the USBM in 1984 to appraise the identified mineral resources and to assess the mineral resource potential of the study areas. These studies indicate that there are small identified resources of zinc, lead, and silver at the Lead Pipe property in the Fandango Wilderness Study Area, several areas of high potential for the occurrence of gold resources in the Fandango study area, small areas of low and moderate potential for the occurrence of silver, lead, and zinc resources in the Fandango study area, areas of moderate and high potential for the occurrence of silver, lead, and zinc resources in the Morey study area, and an area of low potential for copper, molybdenum, and tin in the Morey study area. Both study areas have low resource potential for petroleum, natural gas, uranium, and geothermal energy.

Biosorption and biomineralization of uranium(VI) by Saccharomyces cerevisiae-Crystal formation of chernikovite.

PubMed

Zheng, Xin-Yan; Wang, Xiao-Yu; Shen, Yang-Hao; Lu, Xia; Wang, Tie-Shan

2017-05-01

Biosorption of heavy metal elements including radionuclides by microorganisms is a promising and effective method for the remediation of the contaminated places. The responses of live Saccharomyces cerevisiae in the toxic uranium solutions during the biosorption process and the mechanism of uranium biomineralization by cells were investigated in the present study. A novel experimental phenomenon that uranium concentrations have negative correlation with pH values and positive correlation with phosphate concentrations in the supernatant was observed, indicating that hydrogen ions, phosphate ions and uranyl ions were involved in the chernikovite precipitation actively. During the biosorption process, live cells desorb deposited uranium within the equilibrium state of biosorption system was reached and the phosphorus concentration increased gradually in the supernatant. These metabolic detoxification behaviours could significantly alleviate uranium toxicity and protect the survival of the cells better in the environment. The results of microscopic and spectroscopic analysis demonstrated that the precipitate on the cell surface was a type of uranium-phosphate compound in the form of a scale-like substance, and S. cerevisiae could transform the uranium precipitate into crystalline state-tetragonal chernikovite [H 2 (UO 2 ) 2 (PO 4 ) 2 ·8H 2 O]. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis and PPy loading for enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity of new POMOFs containing silver chains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sha, Jing-Quan; Yang, Xi-Ya; Sheng, Ning; Liu, Guo-Dong; Li, Ji-Sen; Yang, Jian-Bo

2018-07-01

A new polyoxometalate based hybrid compound containing Ag-Ag chain, [Ag29(trz)18][SiWV7WVI5O40] (Ag29SiW12), was synthesized by the simple one-step hydrothermal reaction of silver nitrate, 1, 2, 3- triazole (trz), and [SiW12O40]4- polyanion. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis shows that the [SiW12O40]4- polyanions as coordinating guests were successfully encapsulated into the metal-organic framework host matrix. The Keggin [SiW12O40]n- polyanions as templates and trz molecules as the small and delicate ligands play the decisive factors to the formation of silver chain. In addition, to improve the photocatalytic activity of the new compound Ag29SiW12, its polypyrrole (PPy) composite (PPy@Ag29SiW12) has been prepared and exhibits excellent photocatalytic activity (93.1% for MB and 48.8% for RhB) and selectivity adsorption (16.2 mg/g for MB and 1.60 mg/g for RhB) for organic dyes under the visible light radiation.

Comparative evaluation of antimicrobials for textile applications.

PubMed

Windler, Lena; Height, Murray; Nowack, Bernd

2013-03-01

Many antimicrobial technologies are available for textiles. They may be used in many different textile applications to prevent the growth of microorganisms. Due to the biological activity of the antimicrobial compounds, the assessment of the safety of these substances is an ongoing subject of research and regulatory scrutiny. This review aims to give an overview on the main compounds used today for antimicrobial textile functionalization. Based on an evaluation of scientific publications, market data as well as regulatory documents, the potential effects of antimicrobials on the environment and on human health were considered and also life cycle perspectives were taken into account. The characteristics of each compound were summarized according to technical, environmental and human health criteria. Triclosan, silane quaternary ammonium compounds, zinc pyrithione and silver-based compounds are the main antimicrobials used in textiles. The synthetic organic compounds dominate the antimicrobials market on a weight basis. On the technical side the application rates of the antimicrobials used to functionalize a textile product are an important parameter with treatments requiring lower dosage rates offering clear benefits in terms of less active substance required to achieve the functionality. The durability of the antimicrobial treatment has a strong influence on the potential for release and subsequent environmental effects. In terms of environmental criteria, all compounds were rated similarly in effective removal in wastewater treatment processes. The extent of published information about environmental behavior for each compound varies, limiting the possibility for an in-depth comparison of all textile-relevant parameters across the antimicrobials. Nevertheless the comparative evaluation showed that each antimicrobial technology has specific risks and benefits that should be taken into account in evaluating the suitability of different antimicrobial products. The results also indicated that nanoscale silver and silver salts that achieve functionality with very low application rates offer clear potential benefits for textile use. The regular care of textiles consumes lots of resources (e.g. water, energy, chemicals) and antimicrobial treatments can play a role in reducing the frequency and/or intensity of laundering which can give potential for significant resource savings and associated impact on the environment. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mineral resource potential map of the Chama River Canyon Wilderness and contiguous roadless area, Rio Arriba County, New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ridgley, Jennie L.; Light, Thomas D.

1983-01-01

The Chama River Canyon Wilderness and Roadless Area have a moderate to high potential for the presence of small deposits of copper with associated uranium and silver. These deposits, as yet undetected, would occur in the Permian Cutler Formation and in the lower part of the Triassic Chinle Formation, rock units that are, for the most part, present only in the subsurface. The presence of these deposits is inferred because such deposits occur in rocks of equivalent age in adjacent areas. Gypsum, of probable minable quality and quantity, occurs throughout the area. Oil and gas are possibly present in Pennsylvanian strata in the subsurface, although no drilling in the study area has tested this hypothesis. Other commodities, including noncopper-related uranium, kaolinite, chromium, vanadium, manganese, and bitumen, although present locally in anomalous concentrations, do not appear to constitute potential resources for these commodities.

Uranium-mediated electrocatalytic dihydrogen production from water.

PubMed

Halter, Dominik P; Heinemann, Frank W; Bachmann, Julien; Meyer, Karsten

2016-02-18

Depleted uranium is a mildly radioactive waste product that is stockpiled worldwide. The chemical reactivity of uranium complexes is well documented, including the stoichiometric activation of small molecules of biological and industrial interest such as H2O, CO2, CO, or N2 (refs 1 - 11), but catalytic transformations with actinides remain underexplored in comparison to transition-metal catalysis. For reduction of water to H2, complexes of low-valent uranium show the highest potential, but are known to react violently and uncontrollably forming stable bridging oxo or uranyl species. As a result, only a few oxidations of uranium with water have been reported so far; all stoichiometric. Catalytic H2 production, however, requires the reductive recovery of the catalyst via a challenging cleavage of the uranium-bound oxygen-containing ligand. Here we report the electrocatalytic water reduction observed with a trisaryloxide U(III) complex [(((Ad,Me)ArO)3mes)U] (refs 18 and 19)--the first homogeneous uranium catalyst for H2 production from H2O. The catalytic cycle involves rare terminal U(IV)-OH and U(V)=O complexes, which have been isolated, characterized, and proven to be integral parts of the catalytic mechanism. The recognition of uranium compounds as potentially useful catalysts suggests new applications for such light actinides. The development of uranium-based catalysts provides new perspectives on nuclear waste management strategies, by suggesting that mildly radioactive depleted uranium--an abundant waste product of the nuclear power industry--could be a valuable resource.

SR-XRD and SR-FTIR study of the alteration of silver foils in medieval paintings.

PubMed

Salvadó, Nati; Butí, Salvador; Labrador, Ana; Cinque, Gianfelice; Emerich, Hermann; Pradell, Trinitat

2011-03-01

Altarpieces and polychrome carved wood from the fifteenth century AD usually exhibit golden and silvery areas by the application of a very thin foil of metal. The metal foils were normally protected from the atmosphere by a varnish or resin which maybe either preserved or absent. Moreover, they were glued to the background surface by adhesive substances (egg yolk, drying oil or animal glue). The high proportion of the glueing substances often renders the development of reaction compounds. With time, silver alters blacken or simply disappear completely. In this paper, we study the alterations to metal foils from a selection of fifteenth century artworks showing different glueing agents, organic coatings and several degrees of conservation of the organic coatings and metal leafs. The submillimetric layered structure and the high variability and low amount of most of the compounds present in the different layers, as well as their differing nature (organic and inorganic) make the use of micron-sensitive high-resolution techniques essential for their study. In particular, the high resolution, high brilliance and small footprint renders synchrotron radiation most adequate for their study. SR-XRD was performed to identify the reaction compounds formed in the different layers; μFTIR was used at to identify the silver protecting organic coatings, the metal foil glueing layers and the corresponding reaction compounds. The results obtained suggest that atmospheric corrosion is the dominant mechanism, and therefore that the degree of corrosion of the metal foils is mainly related to the conservation state of the protecting coatings.

Near-infrared squaraine dyes for fluorescence enhanced surface assay

PubMed Central

Matveeva, Evgenia G.; Terpetschnig, Ewald A.; Stevens, Megan; Patsenker, Leonid; Kolosova, Olga S.; Gryczynski, Zygmunt; Gryczynski, Ignacy

2009-01-01

Commercially available, near-infrared fluorescent squaraine dyes (Seta-635 and Seta-670) were covalently bound to antibodies and employed insurface enhanced immunoassay. From fluorescence intensity and lifetime changes determined for a surface which had been coated with silver nanoparticles as well as a non-coated glass surface, both labelled compounds exhibited a 15 to 20-fold enhancement of fluorescence on the silver coated surface compared to that achieved on the non-coated surface. In addition, the fluorescence lifetime changes drastically for both labels in the case of silver-coated surfaces. The fluorescence signal enhancement obtained for the two dyes was greater than that previously recorded for Rhodamine Red-X and AlexaFluor-647 labels. PMID:20046935

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles: characterization and determination of antibacterial potency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Annamalai, Jayshree; Nallamuthu, Thangaraju

2016-02-01

Silver ions (Ag+) and its compounds are highly toxic to microorganisms, exhibiting strong biocidal effects on many species of bacteria but have a low toxicity toward animal cells. In the present study, silver nanoparticles (SNPs) were biosynthesized using aqueous extract of Chlorella vulgaris as reducing agent and size of SNPs synthesized ranged between 15 and 47 nm. SNPs were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier infrared spectroscopy, and analyzed for its antibacterial property against human pathogens. This approach of SNPs synthesis involving green chemistry process can be considered for the large-scale production of SNPs and in the development of biomedicines.

The apparent absence of chemical sensitivity in the 4d and 5d X-ray absorption spectroscopy of uranium compounds

DOE PAGES

Tobin, J. G.

2013-05-03

X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and related derivative measurements have been used to demonstrate that the Pu 5f states are strongly relativistic and have a 5f occupation number near 5. Owing to the success in this regime, it has been argued that the XAS measurements should be a powerful tool to probe 5f occupation variation, both as a function of elemental nature (actinide atomic number) and as a function of physical and chemical perturbation, e.g., oxidation state. We show that XAS and its related measurements fail in this latter aspect for a wide variety of uranium compounds and materials. Possible causesmore » will be discussed.« less

Increased bioassay sensitivity of bioactive molecule discovery using metal-enhanced bioluminescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golberg, Karina; Elbaz, Amit; McNeil, Ronald; Kushmaro, Ariel; Geddes, Chris D.; Marks, Robert S.

2014-12-01

We report the use of bioluminescence signal enhancement via proximity to deposited silver nanoparticles for bioactive compound discovery. This approach employs a whole-cell bioreporter harboring a plasmid-borne fusion of a specific promoter incorporated with a bioluminescence reporter gene. The silver deposition process was first optimized to provide optimal nanoparticle size in the reaction time dependence with fluorescein. The use of silver deposition of 350 nm particles enabled the doubling of the bioluminescent signal amplitude by the bacterial bioreporter when compared to an untouched non-silver-deposited microtiter plate surface. This recording is carried out in the less optimal but necessary far-field distance. SEM micrographs provided a visualization of the proximity of the bioreporter to the silver nanoparticles. The electromagnetic field distributions around the nanoparticles were simulated using Finite Difference Time Domain, further suggesting a re-excitation of non-chemically excited bioluminescence in addition to metal-enhanced bioluminescence. The possibility of an antiseptic silver effect caused by such a close proximity was eliminated disregarded by the dynamic growth curves of the bioreporter strains as seen using viability staining. As a highly attractive biotechnology tool, this silver deposition technique, coupled with whole-cell sensing, enables increased bioluminescence sensitivity, making it especially useful for cases in which reporter luminescence signals are very weak.

Forensic analysis of latent fingermarks by silver-assisted LDI imaging MS on nonconductive surfaces.

PubMed

Lauzon, N; Dufresne, M; Beaudoin, A; Chaurand, P

2017-06-01

Silver-assisted laser desorption ionization (AgLDI) imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) has been demonstrated to be a useful technology for fingermark analysis allowing for the detection of several classes of endogenous as well as exogenous compounds. Ideally, in IMS analyses, the fingermarks are deposited under controlled conditions on metallized conductive target slides. However, in forensic investigations, fingermarks are often found on a variety of nonconductive surfaces. A sputtered silver layer renders the target surface conductive, which allows the analyses of insulating surfaces by time-of-flight IMS. Ultimately, the major consideration when developing analytical methods for the analysis of latent fingermarks is their capability to be incorporated within forensic standard operational procedures. To demonstrate the potential of AgLDI IMS for forensic applications, fingermarks deposited on nonconductive surfaces commonly found during an investigation, including paper, cardboard, plastic bags and lifting tape, were first revealed by the Sûreté du Québec by using forensic enhancement techniques prior to the IMS analyses. Numerous endogenous compounds including fatty acids, cholesterol, squalene, wax esters, triglycerides and several exogenous substances were detected and imaged. Here, we show that silver sputtering can provide visual enhancements of fingerprint patterns after FET procedures through different scenarios in which AgLDI IMS can contribute to forensic investigations. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Distribution of uranium and some selected trace metals in human scalp hair from Balkans.

PubMed

Zunic, Z S; Tokonami, S; Mishra, S; Arae, H; Kritsananuwat, R; Sahoo, S K

2012-11-01

The possible consequences of the use of depleted uranium (DU) used in Balkan conflicts in 1995 and 1999 for the people and the environment of this reason need attention. The heavy metal content in human hair may serve as a good indicator of dietary, environmental and occupational exposures to the metal compounds. The present work summarises the distribution of uranium and some selected trace metals such as Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Sr, Cd and Cs in the scalp hair of inhabitants from Balkans exposed to DU directly and indirectly, i.e. Han Pijesak, Bratoselce and Gornja Stubla areas. Except U and Cs, all other metals were compared with the worldwide reported values of occupationally unexposed persons. Uranium concentrations show a wide variation ranging from 0.9 ± 0.05 to 449 ± 12 µg kg(-1). Although hair samples were collected from Balkan conflict zones, uranium isotopic measurement ((235)U/(238)U) shows a natural origin rather than DU.

Screening level model for ecological risk assessment at EF-Site Los Alamos National Laboratory, New Mexico. Final report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Alldredge, A.W.; Kirchner, T.B.; McLendon, T.

1995-12-01

In response to a paucity of data on the chemical toxicity of uranium to plants, a factorial experiment employing five uranium concentrations (0, 50, 500, 5000, 25000 ppm) and three moisture regimes (low, medium, high) was performed using three native grasses. Buchloe dactyloides (buffalograss-mid/late seral), Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem-late seral), and Aristida longiseta (purple threeawn-early/mid seral) were grown in monocultures and every mixture of two species under all combinations of uranium and moisture levels. This design allows for the analysis of uranium effects, as well as possible compound effects due to moisture stress. Several measures of plant health and viabilitymore » were made, including: percent emergence, survivability of seedlings and mature plants, root and shoot biomass, and the number and mass of inflorescences. No significant differences between uranium levels were observed in terms of emergence and seedling survival. Effects are evident for plant biomass, fecundity, and long-term survivability.« less

Adamantyl- and Furanyl-Protected Nanoscale Silver Sulfide Clusters.

PubMed

Bestgen, Sebastian; Yang, Xiaoxun; Issac, Ibrahim; Fuhr, Olaf; Roesky, Peter W; Fenske, Dieter

2016-07-11

The silver salts of 1-adamantanethiol (AdSH) and furan-2-ylmethanethiol (FurCH2 SH) were successfully applied as building blocks for ligand-protected Ag2 S nanoclusters. The reaction of the silver thiolates [AgSAd]x and [AgSCH2 Fur]x with S(SiMe3 )2 and 1,5-bis(diphenylphosphino)pentane (dpppt) afforded three different clusters with 58, 94 and, 190 silver atoms. The intensely colored compounds [Ag58 S13 (SAd)32 ] (1), [Ag94 S34 (SAd)26 (dpppt)6 ] (2), and [Ag190 S58 (SCH2 Fur)74 (dpppt)8 ] (3) were structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and exhibit different cluster core geometries and ligand shells. The diameters of the well-defined sphere-shaped nanoclusters range from 2.2 nm to 3.5 nm. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Soft-landing ion mobility of silver clusters for small-molecule matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry and imaging of latent fingerprints.

PubMed

Walton, Barbara L; Verbeck, Guido F

2014-08-19

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) imaging is gaining popularity, but matrix effects such as mass spectral interference and damage to the sample limit its applications. Replacing traditional matrices with silver particles capable of equivalent or increased photon energy absorption from the incoming laser has proven to be beneficial for low mass analysis. Not only can silver clusters be advantageous for low mass compound detection, but they can be used for imaging as well. Conventional matrix application methods can obstruct samples, such as fingerprints, rendering them useless after mass analysis. The ability to image latent fingerprints without causing damage to the ridge pattern is important as it allows for further characterization of the print. The application of silver clusters by soft-landing ion mobility allows for enhanced MALDI and preservation of fingerprint integrity.

Luminescent silver(I) tert-butylethynide compounds with nicotinic/isonicotinic acid as ligands

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Yi-Ming; Fan, Yue-Yue; Lin, Fu-Lin; Hu, Ting; Liu, Jia; Lu, Can-Zhong

2017-12-01

Solvothermal reaction of tBuC≡CAg, AgBF4 and nicotinic/isonicotinic acid in acetonitrile afforded two new silver(I) tert-butylethynide double salts, namely [(tBuC≡CAg)(AgL1)3] (HL1 = nicotinic acid) (1) and [(tBuC≡CAg)(AgL1)2] (HL2 = isonicotinic acid) (2). These compounds have been characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectra, single-crystal X-ray analysis, X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, UV-visible absorption spectra, and luminescent measurement. 1 exhibits a two-dimensional coordination network, and 2 features a three-dimensional coordination architecture. Luminescence measurements indicate that 1 shows a fluorescent emission band centered at 568 nm, and 2 exhibits an intense emission maximum at 550 nm and a shoulder peak at 436 nm.

A review of the high temperature oxidation of uranium oxides in molten salts and in the solid state to form alkali metal uranates, and their composition and properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Griffiths, Trevor R.; Volkovich, Vladimir A.

An extensive review of the literature on the high temperature reactions (both in melts and in the solid state) of uranium oxides (UO 2, U 3O 8 and UO 3) resulting in the formation of insoluble alkali metal (Li to Cs) uranates is presented. Their uranate(VI) and uranate(V) compounds are examined, together with mixed and oxygen-deficient uranates. The reactions of uranium oxides with carbonates, oxides, per- and superoxides, chlorides, sulfates, nitrates and nitrites under both oxidising and non-oxidising conditions are critically examined and systematised, and the established compositions of a range of uranate(VI) and (V) compounds formed are discussed. Alkali metal uranates(VI) are examined in detail and their structural, physical, thermodynamic and spectroscopic properties considered. Chemical properties of alkali metal uranates(VI), including various methods for their reduction, are also reported. Errors in the current theoretical treatment of uranate(VI) spectra are identified and the need to develop routes for the preparation of single crystals is stressed.

Solid state 13C-NMR, infrared, X-ray powder diffraction and differential thermal studies of the homologous series of some mono-valent metal (Li, Na, K, Ag) n-alkanoates: A comparative study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nelson, Peter N.; Ellis, Henry A.; White, Nicole A. S.

2015-06-01

A comparative study of the molecular packing, lattice structures and phase behaviors of the homologous series of some mono-valent metal carboxylates (Li, Na, K and Ag) is carried out via solid state FT-infrared and 13C-NMR spectroscopes, X-rays powder diffraction, density measurements, differential scanning calorimetry, polarizing light microscopy and variable temperature infrared spectroscopy. It is proposed that, for lithium, sodium and potassium carboxylates, metal-carboxyl coordination is via asymmetric chelating bidentate bonding with extensive intermolecular interactions to form tetrahedral metal centers, irrespective of chain length. However, for silver n-alkanoates, carboxyl moieties are bound to silver ions via syn-syn type bridging bidentate coordination to form dimeric units held together by extensive head group inter-molecular interactions. Furthermore, the fully extended hydrocarbon chains which are crystallized in the all-trans conformation are tilted at ca. 30°, 27°, 15° and 31° with respect to a normal to the metal plane, for lithium, sodium, silver and potassium carboxylates, respectively. All compounds are packed as lamellar bilayer structures, however, lithium compounds are crystallized in a triclinic crystal system whilst silver, sodium and potassium n-alkanoates are all monoclinic with possible P1 bravais lattice. Odd-even alternation observed in various physical features is associated with different inter-planar spacing between closely packed layers in the bilayer which are not in the same plane; a phenomenon controlled by lattice packing symmetry requirements. All compounds, except silver carboxylates, show partially reversibly first order pre-melting transitions; the number of which increases with increasing chain length. These transitions are associated, for the most part, with lamellar collapse followed by increased gauche-trans isomerism in the methylene group assembly, irrespective of chain length. It is proposed that the absence of mesomorphic transitions in their phase sequences is due to a lack of sufficient balance between attractive and repulsive electrostatic and van der Waals forces during phase change. The evidence presented in this study shows that phase behaviors of mono-valent metal carboxylates are controlled, mainly, by head group bonding.

Photocatalytic, antimicrobial activities of biogenic silver nanoparticles and electrochemical degradation of water soluble dyes at glassy carbon/silver modified past electrode using buffer solution.

PubMed

Khan, Zia Ul Haq; Khan, Amjad; Shah, Afzal; Chen, Yongmei; Wan, Pingyu; Khan, Arif Ullah; Tahir, Kamran; Muhamma, Nawshad; Khan, Faheem Ullah; Shah, Hidayat Ullah

2016-03-01

In the present research work a novel, nontoxic and ecofriendly procedure was developed for the green synthesis of silver nano particle (AgNPs) using Caruluma edulis (C. edulis) extract act as reductant as well as stabilizer agents. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by UV/Vis spectroscopy. The small and spherical sizes of AgNPs were conformed from high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) analysis and were found in the range of 2-10nm, which were highly dispersion without any aggregation. The crystalline structure of AgNPs was conformed from X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. For the elemental composition EDX was used and FTIR helped to determine the type of organic compounds in the extract. The potential electrochemical property of modified silver electrode was also studied. The AgNPs showed prominent antibacterial motion with MIC values of 125 μg/mL against Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus while 250 μg/mL against Escherichia coli. High cell constituents' release was exhibited by B. subtilis with 2 × MIC value of silver nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles also showed significant DPPH free radical scavenging activity. This research would have an important implication for the synthesis of more efficient antimicrobial and antioxidant agent. The AgNP modified electrode (GC/AgNPs) exhibited an excellent electro-catalytic activity toward the redox reaction of phenolic compounds. The AgNPs were evaluated for electrochemical degradation of bromothymol blue (BTB) dyes which showed a significant activity. From the strong reductive properties it is obvious that AgNPs can be used in water sanitization and converting some organic perilous in to non-hazardous materials. The AgNPs showed potential applications in the field of electro chemistry, sensor, catalyst, nano-devices and medical. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Three-component access to pyrroles promoted by the CAN-silver nitrate system under high-speed vibration milling conditions: a generalization of the Hantzsch pyrrole synthesis.

PubMed

Estévez, Verónica; Villacampa, Mercedes; Menéndez, J Carlos

2013-01-21

A sequential multicomponent process involving the high-speed vibration milling of ketones with N-iodosuccinimide and p-toluenesulfonic acid, followed by addition of a mixture of primary amines, β-dicarbonyl compounds, cerium(IV) ammonium nitrate and silver nitrate afforded polysubstituted, functionalized pyrroles. This one-pot, solid-state process can be considered as the coupling of an α-iodoketone preparation with a general version of the classical Hantzsch pyrrole synthesis.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kristo, Michael Joseph; Keegan, Elizabeth; Colella, Michael

Nuclear forensic analysis was conducted on two uranium samples confiscated during a police investigation in Victoria, Australia. The first sample, designated NSR-F-270409-1, was a depleted uranium powder of moderate purity (~1000 μg/g total elemental impurities). The chemical form of the uranium was a compound similar to K 2(UO 2) 3O 4·4H 2O. While aliquoting NSR-F-270409-1 for analysis, the body and head of a Tineid moth was discovered in the sample. The second sample, designated NSR-F-270409-2, was also a depleted uranium powder. It was of reasonably high purity (~380 μg/g total elemental impurities). The chemical form of the uranium was primarilymore » UO 3·2H 2O, with minor phases of U 3O 8 and UO 2. While aliquoting NSR-F-270409-2 for analysis, a metal staple of unknown origin was discovered in the sample. The presence of 236U and 232U in both samples indicates that the uranium feed stocks for these samples experienced a neutron flux at some point in their history. The reactor burn-up calculated from the isotopic composition of the uranium is consistent with that of spent fuel from natural uranium (NU) fueled Pu production. These nuclear forensic conclusions allow us to categorically exclude Australia as the origin of the material and greatly reduce the number of candidate sources.« less

[Ag115S34(SCH2C6H4 tBu)47(dpph)6]: synthesis, crystal structure and NMR investigations of a soluble silver chalcogenide nanocluster† †Dedicated to Evamarie Hey-Hawkins on the occasion of her 60th birthday. ‡ ‡Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: CCDC 1507868. For ESI and crystallographic data in CIF or other electronic format see DOI: 10.1039/c6sc04578b Click here for additional data file. Click here for additional data file.

PubMed Central

Fuhr, Olaf; Breitung, Ben; Kiran Chakravadhanula, Venkata Sei; Guthausen, Gisela; Hennrich, Frank; Yu, Wen; Kappes, Manfred M.; Roesky, Peter W.

2017-01-01

With the aim to synthesize soluble cluster molecules, the silver salt of (4-(tert-butyl)phenyl)methanethiol [AgSCH2C6H4 tBu] was applied as a suitable precursor for the formation of a nanoscale silver sulfide cluster. In the presence of 1,6-(diphenylphosphino)hexane (dpph), the 115 nuclear silver cluster [Ag115S34(SCH2C6H4 tBu)47(dpph)6] was obtained. The molecular structure of this compound was elucidated by single crystal X-ray analysis and fully characterized by spectroscopic techniques. In contrast to most of the previously published cluster compounds with more than a hundred heavy atoms, this nanoscale inorganic molecule is soluble in organic solvents, which allowed a comprehensive investigation in solution by UV-Vis spectroscopy and one- and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy including 31P/109Ag-HSQC and DOSY experiments. These are the first heteronuclear NMR investigations on coinage metal chalcogenides. They give some first insight into the behavior of nanoscale silver sulfide clusters in solution. Additionally, molecular weight determinations were performed by 2D analytical ultracentrifugation and HR-TEM investigations confirm the presence of size-homogeneous nanoparticles present in solution. PMID:28507679

Nuclear forensic analysis of uranium oxide powders interdicted in Victoria, Australia

DOE PAGES

Kristo, Michael Joseph; Keegan, Elizabeth; Colella, Michael; ...

2015-04-13

Nuclear forensic analysis was conducted on two uranium samples confiscated during a police investigation in Victoria, Australia. The first sample, designated NSR-F-270409-1, was a depleted uranium powder of moderate purity (~1000 μg/g total elemental impurities). The chemical form of the uranium was a compound similar to K 2(UO 2) 3O 4·4H 2O. While aliquoting NSR-F-270409-1 for analysis, the body and head of a Tineid moth was discovered in the sample. The second sample, designated NSR-F-270409-2, was also a depleted uranium powder. It was of reasonably high purity (~380 μg/g total elemental impurities). The chemical form of the uranium was primarilymore » UO 3·2H 2O, with minor phases of U 3O 8 and UO 2. While aliquoting NSR-F-270409-2 for analysis, a metal staple of unknown origin was discovered in the sample. The presence of 236U and 232U in both samples indicates that the uranium feed stocks for these samples experienced a neutron flux at some point in their history. The reactor burn-up calculated from the isotopic composition of the uranium is consistent with that of spent fuel from natural uranium (NU) fueled Pu production. These nuclear forensic conclusions allow us to categorically exclude Australia as the origin of the material and greatly reduce the number of candidate sources.« less

Release of 226Ra from uranium mill tailings by microbial Fe(III) reduction

USGS Publications Warehouse

Landa, E.R.; Phillips, E.J.P.; Lovley, D.R.

1991-01-01

Uranium mill tailings were anaerobically incubated in the presence of H2 with Alteromonas putrefaciens, a bacterium known to couple the oxidation of H2 and organic compounds to the reduction of Fe(III) oxides. There was a direct correlation between the extent of Fe(III) reduction and the accumulation of dissolved 226Ra. In sterile tailings in which Fe(III) was not reduced, there was negligible leaching of 226Ra. The behavior of Ba was similar to that of Ra in inoculated and sterile systems. These results demonstrate that under anaerobic conditions, microbial reduction of Fe(III) may result in the release of dissolved 226Ra from uranium mill tailings. ?? 1991.

Mathematical simulation of the amplification of 1790-nm laser radiation in a nuclear-excited He - Ar plasma containing nanoclusters of uranium compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kosarev, V. A.; Kuznetsova, E. E.

2014-02-01

The possibility of applying dusty active media in nuclearpumped lasers has been considered. The amplification of 1790-nm radiation in a nuclear-excited dusty He - Ar plasma is studied by mathematical simulation. The influence of nanoclusters on the component composition of the medium and the kinetics of the processes occurring in it is analysed using a specially developed kinetic model, including 72 components and more than 400 reactions. An analysis of the results indicates that amplification can in principle be implemented in an active laser He - Ar medium containing 10-nm nanoclusters of metallic uranium and uranium dioxide.

Uranium Biomineralization By Natural Microbial Phosphatase Activities in the Subsurface

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Taillefert, Martial

This project investigated the geochemical and microbial processes associated with the biomineralization of radionuclides in subsurface soils. During this study, it was determined that microbial communities from the Oak Ridge Field Research subsurface are able to express phosphatase activities that hydrolyze exogenous organophosphate compounds and result in the non-reductive bioimmobilization of U(VI) phosphate minerals in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. The changes of the microbial community structure associated with the biomineralization of U(VI) was determined to identify the main organisms involved in the biomineralization process, and the complete genome of two isolates was sequenced. In addition, it was determined thatmore » both phytate, the main source of natural organophosphate compounds in natural environments, and polyphosphate accumulated in cells could also be hydrolyzed by native microbial population to liberate enough orthophosphate and precipitate uranium phosphate minerals. Finally, the minerals produced during this process are stable in low pH conditions or environments where the production of dissolved inorganic carbon is moderate. These findings suggest that the biomineralization of U(VI) phosphate minerals is an attractive bioremediation strategy to uranium bioreduction in low pH uranium-contaminated environments. These efforts support the goals of the SBR long-term performance measure by providing key information on "biological processes influencing the form and mobility of DOE contaminants in the subsurface".« less

Functionalization of carbon dioxide and carbon disulfide using a stable uranium(III) alkyl complex.

PubMed

Matson, Ellen M; Forrest, William P; Fanwick, Phillip E; Bart, Suzanne C

2011-04-06

A rare uranium(III) alkyl complex, Tp*(2)U(CH(2)Ph) (2) (Tp* = hydrotris(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)borate), was synthesized by salt metathesis from Tp*(2)UI (1) and KCH(2)Ph and fully characterized using (1)H NMR, infrared, and electronic absorption spectroscopies as well as X-ray crystallography. This complex has a uranium-carbon distance of 2.57(2) Å, which is comparable to other uranium alkyls reported. Treating this compound with either carbon dioxide or carbon disulfide results in insertion into the uranium-carbon bond to generate Tp*(2)U(κ(2)-O(2)CCH(2)Ph) (3) and Tp*(2)U(SC(S)CH(2)Ph) (4), respectively. These species, characterized spectroscopically and by X-ray crystallography, feature new carboxylate and dithiocarboxylate ligands. Analysis by electronic absorption spectroscopy supports the trivalent oxidation state of the uranium center in both of these derivatives. Addition of trimethylsilylhalides (Me(3)SiX; X = Cl, I) to 3 results in the release of the free silyl ester, Me(3)SiOC(O)CH(2)Ph, forming the initial uranium monohalide species, Tp*(2)UX, which can then be used over multiple cycles for the functionalization of carbon dioxide. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Oxygen isotopes of phosphatic compounds - Application for marine particulate matter, sediments and soils

USGS Publications Warehouse

McLaughlin, K.; Paytan, A.; Kendall, C.; Silva, S.

2006-01-01

The phosphate oxygen isotopic composition in naturally occurring particulate phosphatic compounds (??18Op) can be used as a tracer for phosphate sources and to evaluate the cycling of phosphorus (P) in the environment. However, phosphatic compounds must be converted to silver phosphate prior to isotopic analysis, a process that involves digestion of particulate matter in acid. This digestion will hydrolyze some of the phosphatic compounds such that oxygen from the acid solution will be incorporated into the sample as these phosphatic compounds are converted to orthophosphate (PO 43-). To determine the extent of incorporation of reagent oxygen into the sample, we digested various phosphatic compounds in both acid amended with H218O (spiked) and unspiked acid and then converted the samples to silver phosphate for ??18Op analysis. Our results indicate that there is no isotopic fractionation associated with acid digestion at 50??C. Furthermore, we found that reagent oxygen incorporation is a function of the oxygen to phosphorus ratio (O:P) of the digested compound whereby the percentage of reagent oxygen incorporated into the sample is the same as that which is required to convert all of the P-compounds into orthophosphate. Based on these results, we developed a correction for reagent oxygen incorporation using simple mass balance, a procedure that allows for the determination of the ??18O p of samples containing a mixture of phosphatic compounds. We analyzed a variety of environmental samples for ??18O p to demonstrate the utility of this approach for understanding sources and cycling of P. ?? 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Stomach (Gastric) Cancer Screening

MedlinePlus

... liquid that contains barium (a silver-white metallic compound ) which coats the esophagus and stomach as it ... to remove tissue , which is checked under a microscope for signs of disease. Enlarge Upper endoscopy. A ...

Characterization of silver nanoparticle-infused tissue adhesive for ophthalmic use.

PubMed

Yee, William; Selvaduray, Guna; Hawkins, Benjamin

2015-03-01

In this work, we demonstrate the successful enhancement of breaking strength, adhesive strength, and antibacterial efficacy of ophthalmic tissue adhesive (2-octyl cyanoacrylate) by doping with silver nanoparticles, and investigate the effects of nanoparticle size and concentration. Recent work has shown that silver nanoparticles are a viable antibacterial additive to many compounds, but their efficacy in tissue adhesives was heretofore untested. Our results indicate that doping the adhesive with silver nanoparticles reduced bacterial growth by an order of magnitude or more; nanoparticle size and concentration had minimal influence in the range tested. Tensile breaking strength of polymerized adhesive samples and adhesive strength between a T-shaped support and excised porcine sclera were measured using a universal testing machine according to ASTM (formerly American Society for Testing and Materials) standard techniques. Both tests showed significant improvement with the addition of silver nanoparticles. The enhanced mechanical strength and antibacterial efficacy of the doped adhesive supports the use of tissue adhesives as a viable supplement or alternative to sutures. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis of silver/silver chloride/graphene oxide composite and its surface-enhanced Raman scattering activity and self-cleaning property

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Nan; Fei, Xiao; Cheng, Xiaonong; Yang, Juan

2017-09-01

Recently, silver nanoparticles decorated with graphene and graphene oxide (GO) sheets can be employed as surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates. However, their SERS activity on macromolecular compound detection is all one-time process. In order to solve this issue and decrease the cost of routine SERS detection, silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) with photocatalytic activity under visible light was introduced. In this study, a novel, simple and clean approach is carried out for synthesis of the Ag/AgCl/GO composite. The Ag/AgCl colloidal solution is obtained by hydrothermal method and then mixed with GO solution to obtain the Ag/AgCl/GO composite using a facile electrostatic self-assembly method. Results showed that the Ag/AgCl/GO composite has the optimized SERS activity to Rhodamine 6G molecules with the maximum enhancement factor value of 3.8×107. Furthermore, the Ag/AgCl particles with high efficient and stable photocatalytic activity under visible light lead to an outstanding self-cleaning property of the Ag/AgCl/GO composite.

Preparation of crosslinked amphiphilic silver nanogel as thin film corrosion protective layer for steel.

PubMed

Atta, Ayman M; El-Mahdy, Gamal A; Al-Lohedan, Hamad A; Ezzat, Abdelrahman O

2014-07-17

Monodisperse silver nanoparticles were synthesized by a new developed method via reaction of AgNO3 and oleic acid with the addition of a trace amount of Fe3+ ions. Emulsion polymerization at room temperature was employed to prepare a core-shell silver nanoparticle with controllable particle size. N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) and potassium peroxydisulfate (KPS) were used as a crosslinker, and as redox initiator system, respectively for crosslinking polymerization. The structure and morphology of the silver nanogels were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM and SEM). The effectiveness of the synthesized compounds as corrosion inhibitors for steel in 1 M HCl was investigated by various electrochemical techniques such as potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Monolayers of silver nanoparticle were self-assembled on the fresh active surface of the steel electrode and have been tested as a corrosion inhibitor for steel in 1 M HCl solution. The results of polarization measurements showed that nanogel particles act as a mixed type inhibitor.

Factors controlling localization of uranium deposits in the Dakota Sandstone, Gallup and Ambrosia Lake mining districts, McKinley County, New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pierson, Charles Thomas; Green, Morris W.

1977-01-01

Geologic studies were made at all of the uranium mines and prospects in the Dakota Sandstone of Early(?) and Late Cretaceous age in the Gallup mining district, McKinley County, New Mexico. Dakota mines in the adjacent Ambrosia Lake mining district were visited briefly for comparative purposes. Mines in the eastern part of the Gallup district, and in the Ambrosia Lake district, are on the Chaco slope of the southern San Juan Basin in strata which dip gently northward toward the central part of the basin. Mines in the western part of the Gallup district are along the Gallup hogback (Nutria monocline) in strata which dip steeply westward into the Gallup sag. Geologic factors which controlled formation of the uranium deposits in the Dakota Sandstone are: (1) a source of uranium, believed to be uranium deposits of the underlying Morrison Formation of Late Jurassic age; (2) the accessibility to the Dakota of uranium-bearing solutions from the Morrison; (3) the presence in the Dakota of permeable sandstone beds overlain by impermeable carbonaceous shale beds; and (4) the occurrence within the permeable Dakota sandstone beds of carbonaceous reducing material as bedding-plane laminae, or as pockets of carbonaceous trash. Most of the Dakota uranium deposits are found in the lower part of the formation in marginal-marine distributary-channel sandstones which were deposited in the backshore environment. However, the Hogback no. 4 (Hyde) Mine (Gallup district) occurs in sandy paludal shale of the backshore environment, and another deposit, the Silver Spur (Ambrosia Lake district), is found in what is interpreted to be a massive beach or barrier-bar sandstone of the foreshore environment in the upper part of the Dakota. The sedimentary depositional environment most favorable for the accumulation of uranium is that of backshore areas lateral to main distributary channels, where levee, splay, and some distributary-channel sandstones intertongue with gray carbonaceous shales and siltstones of the well-drained swamp environment. Deposits of black carbonaceous shale which were formed in the poorly drained swamp deposits of the interfluve area are not favorable host rocks for uranium. The depositional energy levels of the various environments in which the sandstone and shale beds of the Dakota were deposited govern the relative favorability of the strata as uranium host rocks. In the report area, uranium usually occurs in carbonaceous sandstone deposited under low- to medium-energy fluvial conditions within distributary channels. A prerequisite, however, is that such sandstone be overlain by impermeable carbonaceous shale beds. Low- to medium-energy fluvial conditions result in the deposition of sandstone beds having detrital carbonaceous material distributed in laminae or in trash pockets on bedding planes. The carbonaceous laminae and trash pockets provide the necessary reductant to cause precipitation of uranium from solution. High-energy fluvial conditions result in the deposition of sandstones having little or no carbonaceous material included to provide a reductant. Very low energy swampy conditions result in carbonaceous shale deposits, which are generally barren of uranium because of their relative impermeability to migrating uranium-bearing solutions.

Synthesis of N-formyl-3,4-di-t-butoxycarbonyloxy-6(trimethylstannyl)-L-phenylalanine ethyl ester and its regioselective radiofluorodestannylation to 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-1-dopa

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Satyamurthy, N.; Barrio, J.R.; Bishop, A.J.

A process is revealed for forming a 6-fluoro derivative of compounds in the L-Dopa family comprising the steps of protecting the groups attached to the benzene ring in the compound followed by serially reacting the protected compound with (a) iodine and silver trifluoroacetic acid; (b) Bb{sub 3}; (c) dit-butyldicarbonate; (d) hexamethyltin; (e) a fluoro compound; (f) hydrobromic acid; and (g) raising the pH to {<=}7. 1 fig.

Synthesis of N-formyl-3,4-di-t-butoxycarbonyloxy-6(trimethylstannyl)-L-phenylalanine ethyl ester and its regioselective radiofluorodestannylation to 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-1-dopa

DOEpatents

Satyamurthy, N.; Barrio, J.R.; Bishop, A.J.; Namavari, M.; Bida, G.T.

1996-04-23

A process is revealed for forming a 6-fluoro derivative of compounds in the L-Dopa family comprising the steps of protecting the groups attached to the benzene ring in the compound followed by serially reacting the protected compound with (a) iodine and silver trifluoroacetic acid; (b) Bb{sub 3}; (c) dit-butyldicarbonate; (d) hexamethyltin; (e) a fluoro compound; (f) hydrobromic acid; and (g) raising the pH to {<=}7. 1 fig.

Synthesis of N-formyl-3,4-di-t-butoxycarbonyloxy-6-(trimethylstannyl)-L-phenylalanine ethyl ester and its regioselective radiofluorodestannylation to 6- .sup.18 F!fluoro-1-dopa

DOEpatents

Satyamurthy, Nagichettiar; Barrio, Jorge R.; Bishop, Allyson J.; Namavari, Mohammad; Bida, Gerald T.

1996-01-01

A process for forming a 6-fluoro derivative of compounds in the L-Dopa family comprising the steps of protecting the groups attached to the benzene ring in the compound followed by serially reacting the protected compound with (a) iodine and silver trifluoroacetic acid; (b) Bb.sub.3 ; (c) dit-butyldicarbonate; (d) hexamethyltin; (e) a fluoro compound; (f) hydrobromic acid; and (g) raising the pH to .ltoreq.7.

Exposure pathways and health effects associated with chemical and radiological toxicity of natural uranium: a review.

PubMed

Brugge, Doug; de Lemos, Jamie L; Oldmixon, Beth

2005-01-01

Natural uranium exposure derives from the mining, milling, and processing of uranium ore, as well as from ingestion of groundwater that is naturally contaminated with uranium. Ingestion and inhalation are the primary routes of entry into the body. Absorption of uranium from the lungs or digestive track is typically low but can vary depending on compound specific solubility. From the blood, two-thirds of the uranium is excreted in urine over the first 24 hours and up to 80% to 90% of uranium deposited in the bone leaves the body within 1.5 years. The primary health outcomes of concern documented with respect to uranium are renal, developmental, reproductive, diminished bone growth, and DNA damage. The reported health effects derive from experimental animal studies and human epidemiology. The Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level (LOAEL) derived from animal studies is 50 microg/m3 for inhalation and 60 ug/kg body weight/day for ingestion. The current respiratory standard of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 50 microg/m3, affords no margin of safety. Considering the safety factors for species and individual variation, the ingestion LOAEL corresponds to the daily consumption set by the World Health Organization Drinking Water Standard at 2 microg/L. Based on economic considerations, the United States Environmental Protection Agency maximum contaminant level is 30 microg/L. Further research is needed, with particular attention on the impact of uranium on indigenous populations, on routes of exposure in communities near uranium sites, on the combined exposures present at many uranium sites, on human developmental defects, and on health effects at or below established exposure standards.

Multiplet Splitting Effects on Core-Level Photoemission and Inverse-Photoemission Spectra of Uranium Intermetallic Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okada, Kozo

1999-03-01

The present paper discusses the role of U 5f-5f exchange interaction (J) in the inverse photoemission spectrum (IPES) and the U 4f x-ray photoemission spectrum (XPS) of uranium intermetallic compounds. The origin of the broad main peak in the IPES of UPd3 and UPd2Al3, for instance, is ascribed to the exchange coupling effects of 5f electrons. In other words, whether the ground state is of high-spin or of low-spin is directly reflected in the width of the IPES. On the other hand, the interpretation for the U 4f photoemission spectrum is not so greatly influenced by J. The full-multiplet calculations are also performed for an U4+ ion for comparison.

Dissolution of synthetic uranium dibutyl phosphate deposits in oxidizing and reducing chemical formulations.

PubMed

Rufus, A L; Sathyaseelan, V S; Narasimhan, S V; Velmurugan, S

2013-06-15

Permanganate and nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) based dilute chemical formulations were evaluated for the dissolution of uranium dibutyl phosphate (U-DBP), a compound that deposits over the surfaces of nuclear reprocessing plants and waste storage tanks. A combination of an acidic, oxidizing treatment (nitric acid with permanganate) followed by reducing treatment (NTA based formulation) efficiently dissolved the U-DBP deposits. The dissolution isotherm of U-DBP in its as precipitated form followed a logarithmic fit. The same chemical treatment was also effective in dissolving U-DBP coated on the surface of 304-stainless steel, while resulting in minimal corrosion of the stainless steel substrate material. Investigation of uranium recovery from the resulting decontamination solutions by ion exchange with a bed of mixed anion and cation resins showed quantitative removal of uranium. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Study of behaviors of aluminum overlayers deposited on uranium via AES, EELS, and XPS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Kezhao; Luo, Lizhu; Zhou, Wei; Yang, Jiangrong; Xiao, Hong; Hong, Zhanglian; Yang, Hui

2013-04-01

Aluminum overlayers on uranium were prepared by sputtering at room temperature in an ultra-high vacuum chamber. The growth mode of aluminum overlayers and behaviors of the Al/U interface reaction were studied in situ by auger electron spectroscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results suggested that the interdiffusion took place at the Al/U interface during the initial stage of deposition. The U4f spectra of the Al/U interface showed strong correlation satellites at binding energies of 380.4 and 392.7 eV and plasma loss features at 404.2 eV, respectively. The interactions between aluminum and uranium yielded the intermetallic compound of UAlx, inducing the shift to a low binding energy for Al2p peaks. The results indicated that aluminum overlayers were formed on the uranium by sputtering in an island growth mode.

An off-line method to characterize the fission product release from uranium carbide-target prototypes developed for SPIRAL2 project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hy, B.; Barré-Boscher, N.; Özgümüs, A.; Roussière, B.; Tusseau-Nenez, S.; Lau, C.; Cheikh Mhamed, M.; Raynaud, M.; Said, A.; Kolos, K.; Cottereau, E.; Essabaa, S.; Tougait, O.; Pasturel, M.

2012-10-01

In the context of radioactive ion beams, fission targets, often based on uranium compounds, have been used for more than 50 years at isotope separator on line facilities. The development of several projects of second generation facilities aiming at intensities two or three orders of magnitude higher than today puts an emphasis on the properties of the uranium fission targets. A study, driven by Institut de Physique Nucléaire d'Orsay (IPNO), has been started within the SPIRAL2 project to try and fully understand the behavior of these targets. In this paper, we have focused on five uranium carbide based targets. We present an off-line method to characterize their fission product release and the results are examined in conjunction with physical characteristics of each material such as the microstructure, the porosity and the chemical composition.

Disinfection of Spacecraft Potable Water Systems by Passivation with Ionic Silver

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Birmele, Michele N.; McCoy, LaShelle e.; Roberts, Michael S.

2011-01-01

Microbial growth is common on wetted surfaces in spacecraft environmental control and life support systems despite the use of chemical and physical disinfection methods. Advanced control technologies are needed to limit microorganisms and increase the reliability of life support systems required for long-duration human missions. Silver ions and compounds are widely used as antimicrobial agents for medical applications and continue to be used as a residual biocide in some spacecraft water systems. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has identified silver fluoride for use in the potable water system on the next generation spacecraft. Due to ionic interactions between silver fluoride in solution and wetted metallic surfaces, ionic silver is rapidly depleted from solution and loses its antimicrobial efficacy over time. This report describes research to prolong the antimicrobial efficacy of ionic silver by maintaining its solubility. Three types of metal coupons (lnconel 718, Stainless Steel 316, and Titanium 6AI-4V) used in spacecraft potable water systems were exposed to either a continuous flow of water amended with 0.4 mg/L ionic silver fluoride or to a static, pre-treatment passivation in 50 mg/L ionic silver fluoride with or without a surface oxidation pre-treatment. Coupons were then challenged in a high-shear, CDC bioreactor (BioSurface Technologies) by exposure to six bacteria previously isolated from spacecraft potable water systems. Continuous exposure to 0.4 mg/L ionic silver over the course of 24 hours during the flow phase resulted in a >7-log reduction. The residual effect of a 24-hour passivation treatment in 50 mg/L of ionic silver resulted in a >3-log reduction, whereas a two-week treatment resulted in a >4-log reduction. Results indicate that 0.4 mg/L ionic silver is an effective biocide against many bacteria and that a prepassivation of metal surfaces with silver can provide additional microbial control.

Radiometric reconnaissance in the Garfield and Taylor park quadrangles, Chaffee and Gunnison counties, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dings, M.G.; Schafer, Max

1953-01-01

During the summer of 1952 most of the mines and prospects in the Garfield and Taylor Park quadrangles of west-central Colorado were examined radiometrically by the U. S. Geological Survey to determine the extent, grade, and mode of occurrence of radioactive substances. The region contains a relatively large number of rock types, chiefly pre-Cambrian schists, gneisses, and granites; large and small isolated areas of sedimentary rocks of Paleozoic and Mesozoic ages; and a great succession of intrusive rocks of Tertiary age that range from andesite to granite and occur as stocks, chonoliths, sills, dikes, and one batholith. The prevailing structures are northwest-trending folds and faults. Ores valued at about $30,000,000 have been produced from this region. Silver, lead, zinc, and gold have accounted for most of this value, but small tonnages of copper, tungsten, and molybdenum have also been produced. The principal ore minerals are sphalerite, silver-bearing galena, cerussite, smithsonite, and gold-bearing pyrite and limonite; they occur chiefly as replacement bodies in limestone and as shoots in pyritic quartz veins. Anomalous radioactivity is uncommon and the four localities at which it is known are widely separated in space. The uranium content of samples from these localities is low. Brannerite, the only uranium-bearing mineral positively identified in the region, occurs sparingly in a few pegmatites and in one quartz-beryl-pyrite vein. Elsewhere radioactivity is associated with (l) black shale seams in the Manitou dolomite, (2) a quartz-pyrite-molybdenite vein, (3) a narrow border zone of oxidized material surrounding a small lead zinc ore body in the Manitou dolomite along a strong fault zone.

Calixarene cleansing formulation for uranium skin contamination.

PubMed

Phan, Guillaume; Semili, Naïma; Bouvier-Capely, Céline; Landon, Géraldine; Mekhloufi, Ghozlene; Huang, Nicolas; Rebière, François; Agarande, Michelle; Fattal, Elias

2013-10-01

An oil-in-water cleansing emulsion containing calixarene molecule, an actinide specific chelating agent, was formulated in order to improve the decontamination of uranium from the skin. Commonly commercialized cosmetic ingredients such as surfactants, mineral oil, or viscosifying agents were used in preparing the calixarene emulsion. The formulation was characterized in terms of size and apparent viscosity measurements and then was tested for its ability to limit uranyl ion permeation through excoriated pig-ear skin explants in 24-h penetration studies. Calixarene emulsion effectiveness was compared with two other reference treatments consisting of DTPA and EHBP solutions. Application of calixarene emulsion induced the highest decontamination effect with an 87% decrease in uranium diffusion flux. By contrast, EHBP and DTPA solutions only allowed a 50% and 55% reduction of uranium permeation, respectively, and had the same effect as a simple dilution of the contamination by pure water. Uranium diffusion decrease was attributed to uranyl ion-specific chelation by calixarene within the formulation, since no significant effect was obtained after application of the same emulsion without calixarene. Thus, calixarene cleansing emulsion could be considered as a promising treatment in case of accidental contamination of the skin by highly diffusible uranium compounds.

Treatment Option Overview (Gastric Cancer)

MedlinePlus

... liquid that contains barium (a silver-white metallic compound ). The liquid coats the esophagus and stomach, and ... tissues so they can be viewed under a microscope to check for signs of cancer. A biopsy ...

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of silver nanoparticles biosynthesized from aqueous leaves extracts of four Terminalia species

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El-Rafie, Hanaa Mohamed; Abdel-Aziz Hamed, Manal

2014-09-01

The environmentally friendly synthesis of nanoparticles process is a revolutionary step in the field of nanotechnology. In recent years plant mediated biological synthesis of nanoparticles has been gaining importance due to its simplicity and eco-friendliness. In this study, a simple and an efficient eco-friendly approach for the biosynthesis of stable, monodisperse silver nanoparticles using aqueous extracts of four Terminalia species, namely, Terminalia catappa, Terminalia mellueri, Terminalia bentazoe and Terminalia bellerica were described. The silver nanoparticles were characterized in terms of synthesis, capping functionalities (polysaccharides, phenolics and flavonoidal compounds) and microscopic evaluation by UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The results showed a simple and feasible approach for obtaining stable aqueous monodispersive silver nanoparticles. Furthermore, biological activity of the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles was examined. Concerning this, dose-dependent antioxidant activity of silver nanoparticles imparted by the plant phenolic and flavonoidal components was evaluated using in vitro 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and found to be comparable to standard ascorbic acid. The same holds true for the anti-inflammatory activity where Terminalia catappa and Terminalia mellueri have a high-test inhibition percentage better than that of ascorbic acid in the carrageenan induced hind paw edema. The results also revealed that the aqueous extract of Terminallia catapa and its silver nanoparticles recorded the most potent in vivo antioxidant effect.

Synthesis of positively charged hybrid PHMB-stabilized silver nanoparticles: the search for a new type of active substances used in plant protection products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krutyakov, Yurii A.; Kudrinsky, Alexey A.; Gusev, Alexander A.; Zakharova, Olga V.; Klimov, Alexey I.; Yapryntsev, Alexey D.; Zherebin, Pavel M.; Shapoval, Olga A.; Lisichkin, Georgii V.

2017-07-01

Modern agriculture calls for a decrease in pesticide application, particularly in order to decrease the negative impact on the environment. Therefore the development of new active substances and plant protection products (PPP) to minimize the chemical load on ecosystems is a very important problem. Substances based on silver nanoparticles are a promising solution of this problem because of the fact that in correct doses such products significantly increase yields and decrease crop diseases while displaying low toxicity to humans and animals. In this paper we for the first time propose application of polymeric guanidine compounds with varying chain lengths (from 10 to 130 elementary links) for the design and synthesis of modified silver nanoparticles to be used as the basis of a new generation of PPP. Colloidal solutions of nanocrystalline silver containing 0.5 g l-1 of silver and 0.01-0.4 g l-1 of polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride (PHMB) were obtained by reduction of silver nitrate with sodium borohydride in the presence of PHMB. The field experiment has shown that silver-containing solutions have a positive effect on agronomic properties of potato, wheat and apple. Also the increase in activity of such antioxidant system enzymes as peroxidase and catalase in the tissues of plants treated with nanosilver has been registered.

In situ ligand synthesis with the UO{sub 2}{sup 2+} cation under hydrothermal conditions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Frisch, Mark; Cahill, Christopher L.; Geophysical Laboratory, Carnegie Institution of Washington, Washington, DC

A novel uranium (VI) coordination polymer, (UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(C{sub 2}O{sub 4})(C{sub 5}H{sub 6}NO{sub 3}){sub 2} (1), has been prepared under the hydrothermal reaction of uranium nitrate hexahydrate and L-pyroglutamic acid. Compound 1 (monoclinic, C2/c, a=22.541(6) A, b=5.7428(15) A, c=15.815(4) A, {beta}=119.112(4){sup o}, Z=4, R{sub 1}=0.0237, wR{sub 2}=0.0367) consists of uranium pentagonal bipyramids linked via L-pyroglutamate and oxalate anions to form an overall two-dimensional (2D) structure. With the absence of oxalic acid within the starting materials, the oxalate anions are hypothesized to form in situ whereby decarboxylation of L-pyroglutamic acid occurs followed by coupling of CO{sub 2} to form the oxalatemore » linkages as observed in the crystal structure. Addition of copper (II) to this system appears to promote oxalate formation in that synthetic moolooite (Cu(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}).nH{sub 2}O; 0{<=}n{<=}1) and a known uranyl oxalate [(UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(C{sub 2}O{sub 4})(OH){sub 2}(H{sub 2}O){sub 2}.H{sub 2}O], co-crystallize in significant quantity. Compound 1 exhibits the characteristic uranyl emission spectrum upon either direct uranyl excitation or ligand excitation, the latter of which shows an increase in relative intensity. This subsequent increase in the intensity indicates an energy transfer from the ligand to the uranyl cations thus illustrating an example of the antenna effect in the solid state. - Graphical abstract: A novel homometallic coordination polymer (UO{sub 2}){sub 2}(C{sub 2}O{sub 4})(C{sub 5}H{sub 6}NO{sub 3}){sub 2}, in the uranium-L-pyroglutamic acid system has been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. The title compound consists of uranium pentagonal bipyramids bridged through both L-pyroglutamate and oxalate linkages to produce a 3D crystal structure. The oxalate anions are theorized to result from decarboxylation of L-pyroglutamic acid followed by subsequent coupling of CO{sub 2}.« less

Nitrogen reduction and functionalization by a multimetallic uranium nitride complex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falcone, Marta; Chatelain, Lucile; Scopelliti, Rosario; Živković, Ivica; Mazzanti, Marinella

2017-07-01

Molecular nitrogen (N2) is cheap and widely available, but its unreactive nature is a challenge when attempting to functionalize it under mild conditions with other widely available substrates (such as carbon monoxide, CO) to produce value-added compounds. Biological N2 fixation can do this, but the industrial Haber-Bosch process for ammonia production operates under harsh conditions (450 degrees Celsius and 300 bar), even though both processes are thought to involve multimetallic catalytic sites. And although molecular complexes capable of binding and even reducing N2 under mild conditions are known, with co-operativity between metal centres considered crucial for the N2 reduction step, the multimetallic species involved are usually not well defined, and further transformation of N2-binding complexes to achieve N-H or N-C bond formation is rare. Haber noted, before an iron-based catalyst was adopted for the industrial Haber-Bosch process, that uranium and uranium nitride materials are very effective heterogeneous catalysts for ammonia production from N2. However, few examples of uranium complexes binding N2 are known, and soluble uranium complexes capable of transforming N2 into ammonia or organonitrogen compounds have not yet been identified. Here we report the four-electron reduction of N2 under ambient conditions by a fully characterized complex with two UIII ions and three K+ centres held together by a nitride group and a flexible metalloligand framework. The addition of H2 and/or protons, or CO to the resulting complex results in the complete cleavage of N2 with concomitant N2 functionalization through N-H or N-C bond-forming reactions. These observations establish that a molecular uranium complex can promote the stoichiometric transformation of N2 into NH3 or cyanate, and that a flexible, electron-rich, multimetallic, nitride-bridged core unit is a promising starting point for the design of molecular complexes capable of cleaving and functionalizing N2 under mild conditions.

Spectroscopic studies of uranium species for environmental decontamination applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eng, Charlotte

After the Cold War, Department of Energy began to concentrate its efforts on cleanup of former nuclear material processing facilities, especially uranium-contaminated groundwater and soil. This research aims to study uranium association to both organic and inorganic compounds found in the contaminated environment in the hopes that the information gathered can be applied to the development and optimization of cost-effective remediation techniques. Spectroscopic and electrochemical methods will be employed to examine the behavior of uranium in given conditions to further our understanding of its impact on the environment. Uranium found in groundwater and soil bind with various ligands, especially organic ligands present in the environment due to natural sources (e.g. metabolic by-products or degradation of plants and animals) or man-made sources (e.g. chelating agents used in operating or cleanup of uranium processing facilities). We selected reasonable analogs of naturally occurring matter and studied their structure, chemical and electrochemical behavior and found that the structure of uranyl complexes depends heavily on the nature of the ligand and environmental factors such as pH. Association of uranium-organic complexes with anaerobic bacteria, Clostridium sp. was studied to establish if the bacteria can effectively bioreduce uranium while going through normal bacterial activity. It was found that the nature of the organic ligand affected the bioavailability and toxicity of the uranium on the bacteria. In addition, we have found that the type of iron corrosion products and uranyl species present on the surface of corroded steel depended on various environmental factors, which subsequently affected the removal rate of uranium by a citric acid/hydrogen peroxide/deionized water cleaning process. The method was found to remove uranium from only the topmost corrosion layers and residual uranium could be found (a) deeper in the corrosion layers where it is occluded by the steel corrosion products or (b) in areas where the dissolved uranium/iron species, the products generated by the dissolution power of citric acid, was not properly rinsed away.

Reconnaissance of uranium and copper deposits in parts of New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gott, Garland B.; Erickson, Ralph L.

1952-01-01

Because of the common association of uranium and copper in several of the commercial uranium deposits in the Colorado Plateau Province, a reconnaissance was made of several known deposits of copper disseminated through sandstone to determine whether they might be a source of uranium. In order to obtain more information regarding the relationship between copper, uranium and carbonaceous materials, some of the uraniferious asphaltrite deposits in the Shinarump conglomerate along the west flank of the San Rafael Swell were also investigated briefly. During this reconnaissance 18 deposits were examined in New Mexico, eight in Utah, two in Idaho, and one each in Wyoming and Colorado. No uranium deposits of commercial grade are associated with the copper deposits that were examined. The uraniferous asphaltites in the Shinarump conglomerate of Triassic age on the west flank of the San Rafael Swell, however, are promising from the standpoint of commercial uranium production. Spectrographic analyses of crude oil, asphalt, and bituminous shales show a rather consistent suite of trace metals including vanadium, nickel, copper, cobalt, chromium, lead zinc, and molybdenum. The similarity of the metal assemblage, including uranium of the San Rafael Swell asphaltites, to the metal assemblage in crude oil and other bituminous materials suggests that these metals were concentrated in the asphaltites from petroleum. However, the hypothesis that uranium minerals were already present before the hydrocarbons were introduced and that some sort of replacement or uranium minerals by carbon compounds was effected after the petroleum migrated into the uranium deposit should not be disregarded. The widespread association of uranium with asphaltic material suggests that it also may have been concentrated by some agency connected with the formation of petroleum. The problem of the association of uranium and other trace metals with hydrocarbons should be studied further both in the field and in the laboratory.

Drastic nickel ion removal from aqueous solution by curcumin-capped Ag nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bettini, S.; Pagano, R.; Valli, L.; Giancane, G.

2014-08-01

A completely green synthesis protocol has been adopted to obtain silver nanoaggregates capped by the natural compound (1E, 6E)-1,7-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-diene), also known as curcumin. The synthesis has been monitored by infrared, Raman, visible and fluorescence spectroscopies. Characterization confirms that curcumin reduces and caps the nanoparticles, and such a procedure allows its solubility in water and drastically increases curcumin stability. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)/curcumin complex has been dispersed in a water solution containing a known nickel ion concentration. After three days, a grey precipitate is observed and nickel concentration in the solution is reduced by about 70%.A completely green synthesis protocol has been adopted to obtain silver nanoaggregates capped by the natural compound (1E, 6E)-1,7-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-diene), also known as curcumin. The synthesis has been monitored by infrared, Raman, visible and fluorescence spectroscopies. Characterization confirms that curcumin reduces and caps the nanoparticles, and such a procedure allows its solubility in water and drastically increases curcumin stability. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)/curcumin complex has been dispersed in a water solution containing a known nickel ion concentration. After three days, a grey precipitate is observed and nickel concentration in the solution is reduced by about 70%. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr02583k

Assembly of three new POM-based Ag(I) coordination polymers with antibacterial and photocatalytic properties

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lu, Xin-Xin; Luo, Yu-Hui; Lu, Chen

Three new silver coordination polymers, namely, {Ag_3(bpy)_6[PW_1_2O_4_0]} (1), {Ag_5(H_2biim)_2(Hbiim-NO_2)_2[PW_1_2O_4_0]} (2), {Ag_7(pytz)_4[PW_1_2O_4_0]} (3) (bpy=2,2′-bipyridine, H{sub 2}biim=2,2′-biimidazole, pytz=4-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)pyridine), have been synthesized under hydrothermal condition. Compound 1 shows a 3D supramolecular framework based on 0D moieties. Compound 2 exhibits an attractive 2D biologic screw axis. Compound 3 displays a 3D structure, which consists of Ag(I)···π interactions, π···π stacking and weak Ag···Ag interactions. It is noteworthy that nitration happens to compound 2 during the hydrothermal condition, which is quite rare. Through contrasting the antibacterial activities of gram negative and gram positive bacteria, we find compounds 1–3 have better antibacterial property in gram negative bacteriamore » than gram positive bacteria. In addition, compounds 1–3 also exhibit efficiency of photocatalytic decomposition of organic dyes. Those compounds may be used as potential multifunctional materials in wastewater treatment, because they not only can kill bacteria but also degrade organic pollutants. - Highlights: • Three new silver coordination polymers have been synthesized under hydrothermal condition. • Due to different coordination modes of rigid N-donor ligands, structures of the title compounds vary from 0D to 3D frameworks. • It is noteworthy that nitration happens to compound 2 during the hydrothermal condition, which is quite rare. • In addition, these compounds exhibit efficiency of photocatalytic decomposition of dyes and antibacterial activities.« less

Risks of Stomach (Gastric) Cancer Screening

MedlinePlus

... liquid that contains barium (a silver-white metallic compound ) which coats the esophagus and stomach as it ... to remove tissue , which is checked under a microscope for signs of disease. Enlarge Upper endoscopy. A ...

Biological sensing with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) using a facile and rapid silver colloid-based synthesis technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smyth, C.; Mehigan, S.; Rakovich, Y. P.; Bell, S. E. J.; McCabe, E. M.

2011-03-01

Optical techniques towards the realisation of sensitive and selective biosensing platforms have received a considerable amount of attention in recent times. Techniques based on interferometry, surface plasmon resonance, field-effect transistors and waveguides have all proved popular, and in particular, spectroscopy offers a large range of options. Raman spectroscopy has always been viewed as an information rich technique in which the vibrational frequencies reveal a lot about the structure of a compound. The issue with Raman spectroscopy has traditionally been that its rather low cross section leads to poor limits-of-detection. In response to this problem, Surface-enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS), which increases sensitivity by bringing the sample in contact with many types of enhanceing substrates, has been developed. Here we discuss a facile and rapid technique for the detection of pterins using colloidal silver suspensions. Pteridine compounds are a family of biochemicals, heterocyclic in structure, and employed in nature as components of colour pigmentation and also as facilitators for many metabolic pathways, particularly those relating to the amino acid hydroxylases. In this work, xanthopterin, isoxanthopterin and 7,8- dihydrobiopterin have been examined whilst absorbed to SERS-active silver colloids. SERS, while far more sensitive than regular Raman spectroscopy, has its own issues relating to the reproducibility of substrates. In order to obtain quantitative data for the pteridine compounds mentioned above, exploratory studies of methods for introducing an internal standard for normalisation of the signals have been carried out.e

Chiral Silver-Lanthanide Metal-Organic Frameworks Comprised of One-Dimensional Triple Right-Handed Helical Chains Based on [Ln7(μ3-OH)8]13+ Clusters.

PubMed

Guo, Yan; Zhang, Lijuan; Muhammad, Nadeem; Xu, Yan; Zhou, Yunshan; Tang, Fang; Yang, Shaowei

2018-02-05

Three new isostructural chiral silver-lanthanide heterometal-organic frameworks [Ag 3 Ln 7 (μ 3 -OH) 8 (bpdc) 6 (NO 3 ) 3 (H 2 O) 6 ](NO 3 )·2H 2 O [Ln = Eu (1), Tb (2, Sm (3); H 2 bpdc = 2,2'-bipyridine-3,3'-dicarboxylic acid] based on heptanuclear lanthanide clusters [Ln 7 (μ 3 -OH) 8 ] 13+ comprised of one-dimensional triple right-handed helical chains were hydrothermally synthesized. Various means such as UV-vis spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, powder X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis were used to characterize the compounds, wherein compound 3 was crystallographically characterized. In the structure of compound 3, eight μ 3 -OH - groups link seven Sm 3+ ions, forming a heptanuclear cluster, [Sm 7 (μ 3 -OH) 8 ] 13+ , and the adjacent [Sm 7 (μ 3 -OH) 8 ] 13+ clusters are linked by the carboxylic groups of bpdc 2- ligands, leading to the formation of a one-dimensional triple right-handed helical chain. The adjacent triple right-handed helical chains are further joined together by coordinating the pyridyl N atoms of the bpdc 2- ligands with Ag + , resulting in a chiral three-dimensional silver(I)-lanthanide(III) heterometal-organic framework with one-dimensional channels wherein NO 3 - anions and crystal lattice H 2 O molecules are trapped. The compounds were studied systematically with respect to their photoluminescence properties and energy-transfer mechanism, and it was found that H 2 bpdc (the energy level for the triplet states of the ligand H 2 bpdc is 21505 cm -1 ) can sensitize Eu 3+ luminescence more effectively than Tb 3+ and Sm 3+ luminescence because of effective energy transfer from bpdc 2- to Eu 3+ under excitation in compound 1.

ISOTOPE FRACTIONATION PROCESS

DOEpatents

Clewett, G.H.; Lee, DeW.A.

1958-05-20

A new method is described for isotopic enrichment of uranium. It has been found that when an aqueous acidic solution of ionic tetravalent uraniunn is contacted with chelate complexed tetravalent uranium, the U/sup 238/ preferentially concentrates in the complexed phase while U/sup 235/ concentrates in the ionic phase. The effect is enhanced when the chelate compound is water insoluble and is dissolved in a water-immiscible organic solvent. Cupferron is one of a number of sultable complexing agents, and chloroform is a suitable organic solvent.

238U Mössbauer study on the magnetic properties of uranium-based heavy fermion superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsutsui, Satoshi; Nakada, Masami; Nasu, Saburo; Haga, Yoshinori; Honma, Tetsuo; Yamamoto, Etsuji; Ohkuni, Hitoshi; Ōnuki, Yoshichika

2000-07-01

We have performed 238U Mössbauer spectroscopy of uranium-based heavy fermion superconductors, UPd2Al3 and URu2Si2, in order to investigate their physical properties, mainly their magnetic properties. The slow relaxation of magnetic hyperfine interaction in a paramagnetic state and the static hyperfine field has been observed in an antiferromagnetic ordered state for each compound. The line-widths have maximum at their characteristic temperatures where their magnetic susceptibilities have maximum values.

Constitutional studies on carbide nuclear fuels for fast breeder reactors. III. The uranium-barium-carbon ternary system at 1400°C, with observations on the uranium-strontium-carbon system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peatfield, M.; Brett, N. H.; Potter, P. E.

1980-03-01

The ternary system U-Ba-C has been examined at 1400°C and the solid-state compatibility lines established. No compound formation was found to occur and solubility effects were found to be minimal. A tentative examination of compositions in the U-Sr-C system indicates that it is of a similar form to that of the U-Ba-C system.

Protein-Modified-Paramagnetic-Particles as a Tool for Detection of Silver(I) Ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kizek, R.; Krizkova, S.; Adam, V.; Huska, D.; Hubalek, J.; Trnkova, L.

2009-04-01

In a number of published articles the toxic effect of silver(I) ions on aquatic organisms is described. Silver(I) ions in aquatic environment are stable in a wide range of pH. Under alkali pH AgOH and Ag(OH)2- can be formed. However, in water environment there are many compounds to interact with silver(I) ions. The most important ones are chloride anions, which forms insoluble precipitate with silver(I) ions (AgCl). The insoluble silver containing compounds do not pose any threat to aquatic organisms. Toxicity of silver ions is probably caused by their very good affinity to nucleic acids and also proteins. The binding into active enzyme site leads to the expressive enzyme reaction inhibition. Silver(I) ions are into living environment introduced thanks to anthropogenic activities. They easily contaminate atmosphere as well as aquatic environment or soils. Several authors described using of carbon electrode as working electrode for determination of silver. Recently, we have suggested heavy metal biosensor based on interaction of metal ions with low molecular mass protein called metallothionein (MT), which was adsorbed on the surface of hanging mercury drop electrode (HMDE). The biosensor was successfully used for detection of cadmium(II) and zinc(II) ions, cisplatin, cisplatin-DNA adducts and palladium(II) ions. Due to the convincing results with MT as biological component we report on suggesting of heavy metal biosensor based on immobilization of metallothionein (MT) on the surface of carbon paste electrode (CPE) via MT-antibodies. Primarily we studied of basic electrochemical behaviour of MT at surface of carbon paste electrode by using of square wave voltammetry (SWV). Detection limit (3 S/N) for MT was evaluated as 0.1 μg/ml. After that we have evaluated the electroactivity of MT at surface of SWV, we aimed our attention on the way of capturing of MT on the surface of CPE. We choose antibody against MT obtained from chicken eggs for these purposes. Antibodies incorporated mixed with carbon paste were stable. Even after 14 days we did not determine change in the peak height higher than 5 %. Further linkage of MT with polyclonal chicken antibodies incorporated in carbon paste electrode was determined by SWV. Two signals were observed in voltammograms, cysMT corresponding to -SH moieties of MT and Wa corresponding to tryptophan residues of chicken antibodies. We optimized time of interaction (300 s) and concentration of MT (125 µg/ml) to suggest silver(I) ions biosensor. Biosensor (MT-antibody-modified CPE) prepared under the optimized conditions was utilized for silver(I) ions detection. The detection limit (3 S/N) for silver(I) ions were estimated as 100 nM. The proposed biosensor was tested by detection of silver(I) ions spiked in various water samples (from very pure distilled water to rainwater). Recoveries varied from 74 to 104 %. MT, low molecular mass proteins rich cysteine, play important role in the processes of heavy metals ions metabolism. Due to their unique physico-chemical properties they are able to bind heavy metals with high affinity. We used this feature to suggest simple biosensor based on immobilization of MT on the surface of carbon paste electrode via chicken antibodies against MT. The suggested biosensor was further successfully employed to detect silver(I) ions. The main advantage of the biosensor is that it can be easily miniaturized, whereas carbon nanostructures with immobilized MT should be used as working electrodes. Acknowledgements Financial support from INCHEMBIOL MSMT 0021622412 and GA CR 526/07/0674 is highly acknowledged.

SEPARATION OF URANIUM HEXAFLUORIDE FROM ORGANIC FLUORO COMPOUNDS

DOEpatents

Libby, W.F.

1958-10-01

A method is presented for removing perfiuoroorganic compounds such as C/ sub 7/F/sub 16/ from UF/sub 6/. The physical and chemical properties of the perfluoro compounds are such as to render their removal from UF/sub 6/ difficulty by conventional techniques. The mixture containing UF/sub 6/ and the perfluoro compounds is pyrolyzed in an inert container at high temperature and pressure. The properties of the products obtained by pyrolysis differ from the properties of UF/sub 6/ to a sufficient degree to render their separation possible by ordinary methods.

SEPARATION PROCESS FOR PROTACTINIUM AND COMPOUNDS THEREOF

DOEpatents

Van Winkle, A.

1959-07-21

The separation of protactinium from aqueous solutions from its mixtures with thorium, uranium and fission products is described. The process for the separation comprises preparing an ion nitric acid solution containing protactinium in the pentavalent state and contacting the solution with a fluorinated beta diketone, such as trifluoroacetylacetone, either alone or as an organic solvent solution to form a pentavalent protactinium chelate compound. When the organic solvent is present the chelate compound is extracted; otherwise it is separated by filtration.

SOME GEOCHEMICAL METHODS OF URANIUM EXPLORATION

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Illsley, C.T.; Bills, C.W.; Pollock, J.W.

Geochemical research and development projects were carried on to provide basic information which may be applied to exploration or general studies of uranium geology. The applications and limitations of various aspects of geochemistry to uranium geological problems are considerd. Modifications of existing analytical techniques were made and tested in the laboratory and in the field. These include rapid quantitative determination of unranium in water, soil and peat, and of trace amounts of sulfate and phosphate in water. Geochemical anomaly'' has been defined as a significant departure from the average abundance background of an element where the distribution has not beenmore » disturbed by mineralization. The detection and significance of geocthemical anomalies are directly related to the mobility of the element being sought in the zone of weathering. Mobility of uranium is governed by complex physical, chemical, and biological factors. For uranium anomalies in surface materils, the chemicaly factors affecting mobility are the most sigificant. The effects of pH, solubility, coprecipitution, adsorption complexion, or compound formation are discussed in relation to anomalies detected in water, soil, and stream sediments. (auth)« less

Aerial gamma ray and magnetic survey, Powder River II Project: the Newcastle and Gillette Quadrangles of Wyoming and South Dakota; the Ekalaka Quadrangle of Montana, South and North Dakota. Volume I. Final report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

1979-04-01

During the months of August through September 1978, geoMetrics, Inc. flew approximately 9000 line miles of high sensitivity airborne radiometric and magnetic data in eastern Wyoming and southern Montana over three 1/sup 0/ x 2/sup 0/ NTMS quadrangle (Newcastle, Gillette, and Ekalaka) as part of the Department of Energy's National Uranium Resource Evaluation program. All radiometric and magnetic data were fully reduced and interpreted by geoMetrics, and are presented as four volumes (one Volume I and three Volume II's) in this report. The survey area lies entirely within the northern Great Plains Physiographic Province. The deep Powder River Basin andmore » the Black Hills Uplift are the two dominant structures in the area. Both structures strike NNW approximately parallel to each other with the Powder River Basin to the west of the Uplift. The Basin is one of the largest and deepest in the northern Great Plains and contains over 17,000 feet of Phanerozoic sediments at its deepest point. Economic deposits of oil, coal, bentonite and uranium are found in the Tertiary and/or Cretaceous rocks of the Basin. Gold, silver, lead, copper, manganese, rare-earth elements and uranium have been mined in the Uplift. Epigenetic uranium deposits lie primarily in the Monument Hills - Box Creek and Pumpkin Buttes - Turnercrest districts within arkosic sandstones of the Paleocene Fort Union Formation. A total of 368 groups of statistical values in the uranium window meet the criteria for valid anomalies and are discussed in the interpretation sections (83 in Newcastle, 109 in Gillette, and 126 in Ekalaka). Most anomalies lie in the Tertiary sediments of the Powder River Basin, but only a few are clearly related to known uranium mines or prospects. Magnetic data generally delineate the deep Powder River Basin relative to the Black Hills Uplift. Higher frequency anomalies appear related to producing oil fields and mapped sedimentary structures.« less

Chemical analysis of water samples and geophysical logs from cored test holes drilled in the central Oklahoma Aquifer, Oklahoma

USGS Publications Warehouse

Schlottmann, Jamie L.; Funkhouser, Ron A.

1991-01-01

Chemical analyses of water from eight test holes and geophysical logs for nine test holes drilled in the Central Oklahoma aquifer are presented. The test holes were drilled to investigate local occurrences of potentially toxic, naturally occurring trace substances in ground water. These trace substances include arsenic, chromium, selenium, residual alpha-particle activities, and uranium. Eight of the nine test holes were drilled near wells known to contain large concentrations of one or more of the naturally occurring trace substances. One test hole was drilled in an area known to have only small concentrations of any of the naturally occurring trace substances.Water samples were collected from one to eight individual sandstone layers within each test hole. A total of 28 water samples, including four duplicate samples, were collected. The temperature, pH, specific conductance, alkalinity, and dissolved-oxygen concentrations were measured at the sample site. Laboratory determinations included major ions, nutrients, dissolved organic carbon, and trace elements (aluminum, arsenic, barium, beryllium, boron, cadmium, chromium, hexavalent chromium, cobalt, copper, iron, lead, lithium, manganese, mercury, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, silver, strontium, vanadium and zinc). Radionuclide activities and stable isotope (5 values also were determined, including: gross-alpha-particle activity, gross-beta-particle activity, radium-226, radium-228, radon-222, uranium-234, uranium-235, uranium-238, total uranium, carbon-13/carbon-12, deuterium/hydrogen-1, oxygen-18/oxygen-16, and sulfur-34/sulfur-32. Additional analyses of arsenic and selenium species are presented for selected samples as well as analyses of density and iodine for two samples, tritium for three samples, and carbon-14 for one sample.Geophysical logs for most test holes include caliper, neutron, gamma-gamma, natural-gamma logs, spontaneous potential, long- and short-normal resistivity, and single-point resistance. Logs for test-hole NOTS 7 do not include long- and short-normal resistivity, spontaneous-potential, or single-point resistivity. Logs for test-hole NOTS 7A include only caliper and natural-gamma logs.

Uranium-mediated electrocatalytic dihydrogen production from water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Halter, Dominik P.; Heinemann, Frank W.; Bachmann, Julien; Meyer, Karsten

2016-02-01

Depleted uranium is a mildly radioactive waste product that is stockpiled worldwide. The chemical reactivity of uranium complexes is well documented, including the stoichiometric activation of small molecules of biological and industrial interest such as H2O, CO2, CO, or N2 (refs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11), but catalytic transformations with actinides remain underexplored in comparison to transition-metal catalysis. For reduction of water to H2, complexes of low-valent uranium show the highest potential, but are known to react violently and uncontrollably forming stable bridging oxo or uranyl species. As a result, only a few oxidations of uranium with water have been reported so far; all stoichiometric. Catalytic H2 production, however, requires the reductive recovery of the catalyst via a challenging cleavage of the uranium-bound oxygen-containing ligand. Here we report the electrocatalytic water reduction observed with a trisaryloxide U(III) complex [((Ad,MeArO)3mes)U] (refs 18 and 19)—the first homogeneous uranium catalyst for H2 production from H2O. The catalytic cycle involves rare terminal U(IV)-OH and U(V)=O complexes, which have been isolated, characterized, and proven to be integral parts of the catalytic mechanism. The recognition of uranium compounds as potentially useful catalysts suggests new applications for such light actinides. The development of uranium-based catalysts provides new perspectives on nuclear waste management strategies, by suggesting that mildly radioactive depleted uranium—an abundant waste product of the nuclear power industry—could be a valuable resource.

49 CFR 176.84 - Other requirements for stowage and segregation for cargo vessels and passenger vessels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... liquids. 29 Stow “away from” ammonium compounds. 30 Stow “away from” animal or vegetable oils. 31 Stow...” alkaline compounds.2 54 Stow “separated from” animal or vegetable oils. 55 Stow “separated from” ammonia... applies. 130 Stowage Category A applies, except for uranyl nitrate hexahydrate solution, uranium metal...

49 CFR 176.84 - Other requirements for stowage and segregation for cargo vessels and passenger vessels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... liquids. 29 Stow “away from” ammonium compounds. 30 Stow “away from” animal or vegetable oils. 31 Stow...” alkaline compounds.2 54 Stow “separated from” animal or vegetable oils. 55 Stow “separated from” ammonia... applies. 130 Stowage Category A applies, except for uranyl nitrate hexahydrate solution, uranium metal...

METHOD OF PRODUCING URANIUM

DOEpatents

Foster, L.S.; Magel, T.T.

1958-05-13

A modified process is described for the production of uranium metal by means of a bomb reduction of UF/sub 4/. Difficulty is sometimes experienced in obtaining complete separation of the uranium from the slag when the process is carried out on a snnall scale, i.e., for the production of 10 grams of U or less. Complete separation may be obtained by incorporating in the reaction mixture a quantity of MnCl/sub 2/, so that this compound is reduced along with the UF/sub 4/ . As a result a U--Mn alloy is formed which has a melting point lower than that of pure U, and consequently the metal remains molten for a longer period allowing more complete separation from the slag.

Laser removal of loose uranium compound contamination from metal surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roberts, D. E.; Modise, T. S.

2007-04-01

Pulsed laser removal of surface contamination of uranyl nitrate and uranium dioxide from stainless steel has been studied. Most of the loosely bound contamination has been removed at fluence levels below 0.5 J cm -2, leaving about 5% fixed contamination for uranyl nitrate and 15% for uranium dioxide. Both alpha and beta activities are then sufficiently low that contaminated objects can be taken out of a restricted radiation area for re-use. The ratio of beta to alpha activity is found to be a function of particle size and changes during laser removal. In a separate experiment using technetium-99m, the collection of removed radioactivity in the filter was studied and an inventory made of removed and collected contamination.

A study on artificial rare earth (RE2O3) based neutron absorber.

PubMed

Kim, Kyung-O; Kyung Kim, Jong

2015-11-01

A new concept of a neutron absorption material (i.e., an artificial rare earth compound) was introduced for criticality control in a spent fuel storage system. In particular, spent nuclear fuels were considered as a potential source of rare earth elements because the nuclear fission of uranium produces a full range of nuclides. It was also found that an artificial rare earth compound (RE2O3) as a High-Level Waste (HLW) was naturally extracted from pyroprocessing technology developed for recovering uranium and transuranic elements (TRU) from spent fuels. In this study, various characteristics (e.g., activity, neutron absorption cross-section) were analyzed for validating the application possibility of this waste compound as a neutron absorption material. As a result, the artificial rare earth compound had a higher neutron absorption probability in the entire energy range, and it can be used for maintaining sub-criticality for more than 40 years on the basis of the neutron absorption capability of Boral™. Therefore, this approach is expected to vastly improve the efficiency of radioactive waste management by simultaneously keeping HLW and spent nuclear fuel in a restricted space. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DUF6 Guide

Science.gov Websites

and the environment. The Guide provides basic information about the properties of uranium compounds understand the unique challenges involved in managing DOE's inventory of depleted UF6 in a safe and efficient

The effects of bacteria-nanoparticles interface on the antibacterial activity of green synthesized silver nanoparticles.

PubMed

Ahmad, Aftab; Wei, Yun; Syed, Fatima; Tahir, Kamran; Rehman, Aziz Ur; Khan, Arifullah; Ullah, Sadeeq; Yuan, Qipeng

2017-01-01

Neutralization of bacterial cell surface potential using nanoscale materials is an effective strategy to alter membrane permeability, cytoplasmic leakage, and ultimate cell death. In the present study, an attempt was made to prepare biogenic silver nanoparticles using biomolecules from the aqueous rhizome extract of Coptis Chinensis. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were surface modified with chitosan biopolymer. The prepared silver nanoparticles and chitosan modified silver nanoparticles were cubic crystalline structures (XRD) with an average particle size of 15 and 20 nm respectively (TEM, DLS). The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were surface stabilized by polyphenolic compounds (FTIR). Coptis Chinensis mediated silver nanoparticles displayed significant activity against E. coli and Bacillus subtilus with a zone of inhibition 12 ± 1.2 (MIC = 25 μg/mL) and 18 ± 1.6 mm (MIC = 12.50 μg/mL) respectively. The bactericidal efficacy of these nanoparticles was considerably increased upon surface modification with chitosan biopolymer. The chitosan modified biogenic silver nanoparticles exhibited promising activity against E. coli (MIC = 6.25 μg/mL) and Bacillus subtilus (MIC = 12.50 μg/mL). Our results indicated that the chitosan modified silver nanoparticles were promising agents in damaging bacterial membrane potential and induction of high level of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addition, these nanoparticles were observed to induce the release of the high level of cytoplasmic materials especially protein and nucleic acids into the media. All these findings suggest that the chitosan functionalized silver nanoparticles are efficient agents in disrupting bacterial membrane and induction of ROS leading to cytoplasmic leakage and cell death. These findings further conclude that the bacterial-nanoparticles surface potential modulation is an effective strategy in enhancing the antibacterial potency of silver nanoparticles. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Silver acetate interactions with nicotine and non-nicotine smoke components.

PubMed

Rose, Jed E; Behm, Frédérique M; Murugesan, Thangaraju; McClernon, F Joseph

2010-12-01

Oral topical silver-containing formulations were marketed in the 1970s and 1980s as smoking deterrents, based on the finding that when using such formulations, an unpleasant taste occurs upon smoking. This approach has not been widely adopted, however, in part because of a lack of efficacy data. The advent of new pharmacologic treatments for smoking cessation renews the possibility that such a taste aversion approach may be a useful adjunct to smoking cessation treatment. This study explored the basic mechanistic question of whether topical oral silver acetate solution interacts with nicotine as opposed to non-nicotine smoke constituents. We recruited 20 smoking volunteers to rate nicotine-containing or denicotinized cigarettes, as well as the Nicotrol nicotine vapor inhaler and sham (air) puffs. In two sessions, subjects rated the sensory and hedonic qualities of puffs after rinsing their mouths with either silver acetate solution or deionized water (placebo). Silver acetate relative to placebo solution substantially reduced liking and satisfaction ratings for the usual brand and denicotinized cigarettes; in contrast, for the nicotine inhaler these ratings were unaffected by the silver-based treatment. These results support the conclusion that silver acetate not only renders the taste of cigarette smoke less appealing, but also that the compound appears to interact selectively with non-nicotine smoke constituents. Moreover, these data suggest silver acetate would be compatible with buccal nicotine delivery systems (e.g., nicotine lozenge or gum). Combined use of taste aversion with nicotine replacement therapy could provide the smoker with additional assistance to resist relapse. Further exploration is warranted of the use of silver-based preparations as a short-term adjunct to smoking cessation treatment. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved.

Experiments with Unusual Oxidation States

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kauffman, G. B.

1975-01-01

Describes four synthesis experiments, adapted for the general chemistry laboratory, in which compounds in unusual oxidation are prepared. The abnormal oxidation states involved in the synthesis products are: silver (II), chromium (II), lead (IV), and bromine (I). (MLH)

BUFFALO PEAKS WILDERNESS STUDY AREA, COLORADO.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hedlund, D.C.; Wood, R.H.

1984-01-01

Field investigations were conducted to evaluate the mineral-resource potential of the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness Study Area, Colorado. On the basis of this study there is a probable mineral-resource potential for silver vein and bedding replacement deposits along the Weston Pass fault zone, for hydrothermal vein-type uranium deposits in the vicinity of the Parkdale iron pit, and for gold vein deposits in the parts of the Granite and Four Mile districts that are within the wilderness study area. A probable barite resource potential occurs at Rough and Tumbling Creek and near Spring Creek on the east side of the study area. There is little promise for the occurrence of energy resources.

DEVILS DEN ROADLESS AREA, VERMONT.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Slack, John F.; Sabin, Andrew E.

1984-01-01

A mineral-resource survey was made of the Devils Den Roadless Area, Vermont, Geochemical sampling found traces of gold, copper, barium, lead, molybdenum, silver, tin, and thorium in rocks, stream sediments, and panned concentrates, but not in sufficient quantities to identify any resource potential. The only apparent resources are nonmetallic commodities including abundant rock suitable for crushihg, and very small deposits of sand and gravel and marble; these also occur outside the roadless area. The area was also evaluated for bedrock uranium and thorium deposits, but not anomalously high radioactive bedrock was found. A potential may exist for oil or natural gas at great depth, but this cannot be evaluated by the present study.

Simultaneous determination of iron, cadmium, zinc, copper, nickel, lead, and uranium in seawater by stable isotope dilution spark source mass spectrometry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mykytiuk, A.P.; Russell, D.S.; Sturgeon, R.E.

Trace concentrations (ng/mL) of Fe, Cd, Zn, Cu, Ni, Pb, U, and Co have been determined in seawater by stable isotope dilution spark source mass spectrometry. The seawater samples were preconcentrated on the ion exchanger Chelex-100 and the concentrate was evaporated on a graphite or silver electrode. The results are compared with those obtained by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry. The technique avoids the use of calibration standards and is capable of producing results in cases where the analyte is only partially recovered. 2 tables.

Do linden trees kill bees? Reviewing the causes of bee deaths on silver linden (Tilia tomentosa).

PubMed

Koch, Hauke; Stevenson, Philip C

2017-09-01

For decades, linden trees (basswoods or lime trees), and particularly silver linden ( Tilia tomentosa ), have been linked to mass bee deaths. This phenomenon is often attributed to the purported occurrence of the carbohydrate mannose, which is toxic to bees, in Tilia nectar. In this review, however, we conclude that from existing literature there is no experimental evidence for toxicity to bees in linden nectar. Bee deaths on Tilia probably result from starvation, owing to insufficient nectar resources late in the tree's flowering period. We recommend ensuring sufficient alternative food sources in cities during late summer to reduce bee deaths on silver linden. Silver linden metabolites such as floral volatiles, pollen chemistry and nectar secondary compounds remain underexplored, particularly their toxic or behavioural effects on bees. Some evidence for the presence of caffeine in linden nectar may mean that linden trees can chemically deceive foraging bees to make sub-optimal foraging decisions, in some cases leading to their starvation. © 2017 The Author(s).

PLUTONIUM PURIFICATION PROCESS EMPLOYING THORIUM PYROPHOSPHATE CARRIER

DOEpatents

King, E.L.

1959-04-28

The separation and purification of plutonium from the radioactive elements of lower atomic weight is described. The process of this invention comprises forming a 0.5 to 2 M aqueous acidffc solution containing plutonium fons in the tetravalent state and elements with which it is normally contaminated in neutron irradiated uranium, treating the solution with a double thorium compound and a soluble pyrophosphate compound (Na/sub 4/P/sub 2/O/sub 7/) whereby a carrier precipitate of thorium A method is presented of reducing neptunium and - trite is advantageous since it destroys any hydrazine f so that they can be removed from solutions in which they are contained is described. In the carrier precipitation process for the separation of plutonium from uranium and fission products including zirconium and columbium, the precipitated blsmuth phosphate carries some zirconium, columbium, and uranium impurities. According to the invention such impurities can be complexed and removed by dissolving the contaminated carrier precipitate in 10M nitric acid, followed by addition of fluosilicic acid to about 1M, diluting the solution to about 1M in nitric acid, and then adding phosphoric acid to re-precipitate bismuth phosphate carrying plutonium.

Phenytoin silver: a new nanocompound for promoting dermal wound healing via comprehensive pharmacological action.

PubMed

Ai, Xiao-Yu; Liu, Hui-Juan; Lu, Cheng; Liang, Cai-Li; Sun, Yan; Chen, Shuang; Sun, Bo; Li, Yang; Liu, Yan-Rong; Zhang, Qiang; Liu, Xue-Qiang; Xiao, Ting; Jing, Xue-Shuang; Sun, Tao; Zhou, Hong-Gang; Yang, Cheng

2017-01-01

Phenytoin, an antiepileptic drug, has been widely used for wound healing. Inspired by previous studies, phenytoin silver (PnAg), a sparingly soluble silver nanocompound, was synthesized which exhibited good therapeutic efficacy in tissue repair with low toxicity (LD50 >5 g/kg). In vivo studies showed that PnAg could accelerate dermal wound healing and strong inflammation control in Sprague-Dawley rats (SD rat) and Bama minipigs. Due to its low solubility, PnAg led to low toxicity and blood enrichment in animals. Furthermore, PnAg could upregulate the promoter activity of Jak, Stat3, and Stat3 downstream proteins. Therefore, PnAg may serve as an effective therapeutic compound for wound healing through regulating the gp130/Jak/Stat3 signaling pathway.

Influence of various surface pretreatments on adherence of sputtered molybdenum disulfide to silver, gold, copper, and bronze

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spalvins, T.

1973-01-01

Solid film lubricants of radio frequency sputtered molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) were applied to silver, gold, copper, and bronze surfaces that had various pretreatments (mechanical polishing, sputter etching, oxidation, and sulfurization). Optical and electron transmission micrographs and electron diffraction patterns were used to interpret the film formation characteristics and to evaluate the sputtering conditions in regard to the film and substrate compatibility. Sputtered MoS2 films flaked and peeled on silver, copper, and bronze surfaces except when the surfaces had been specially oxidized. The flaking and peeling was a result of sulfide compound formation and the corresponding grain growth of the sulfide film. Sputtered MoS2 films showed no peeling and flaking on gold surfaces regardless of surface pretreatment.

Antibacterial activity of extracellular compounds produced by a Pseudomonas strain against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background The emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria is a world health problem. Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains, is one of the most important human pathogens associated with hospital and community-acquired infections. The aim of this work was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa-derived compound against MRSA strains. Methods Thirty clinical MRSA strains were isolated, and three standard MRSA strains were evaluated. The extracellular compounds were purified by vacuum liquid chromatography. Evaluation of antibacterial activity was performed by agar diffusion technique, determination of the minimal inhibitory concentration, curve of growth and viability and scanning electron microscopy. Interaction of an extracellular compound with silver nanoparticle was studied to evaluate antibacterial effect. Results The F3 (ethyl acetate) and F3d (dichloromethane- ethyl acetate) fractions demonstrated antibacterial activity against the MRSA strains. Phenazine-1-carboxamide was identified and purified from the F3d fraction and demonstrated slight antibacterial activity against MRSA, and synergic effect when combined with silver nanoparticles produced by Fusarium oxysporum. Organohalogen compound was purified from this fraction showing high antibacterial effect. Using scanning electron microscopy, we show that the F3d fraction caused morphological changes to the cell wall of the MRSA strains. Conclusions These results suggest that P. aeruginosa-produced compounds such as phenazines have inhibitory effects against MRSA and may be a good alternative treatment to control infections caused by MRSA. PMID:23773484

Chromatographic analysis of phytochemicals components present in mangifera indica leaves for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles by AgNO3 reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-Bernett, D.; Silva-Granados, A.; Correa-Torres, S. N.; Herrera, A.

2016-02-01

It was studied the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from the reduction of a silver nitrate solution (1 and 10mM) in the presence of an extract of mangifera indica leaves. Phytochemicals components present in extracts of mango leaves were determined using a GC-MS chromatograph. The results showed the presence of the phenolic compound pyrogallol (26.9% wt/5mL of extract) and oleic acid (29.1% wt/5mL of extract), which are useful for the reduction of the metallic salt AgNO3 and the stabilization of silver nanoparticles. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), evidencing absorbances at wavelengths of 417nm (AgNPs-1) and 414nm (AgNPs- 10), which are characteristic peaks of this metallic nanoparticles. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to determine the size of the synthesized nanoparticles. A particle size of about 28±7nm was observed for the AgNPs-1 sample and 26±5nm for the AgNPs-10. This suggests the advantages of green chemistry to obtain silver nanoparticles with a narrow size distribution.

Amperometric, Bipotentiometric, and Coulometric Titration.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stock, John T.

1984-01-01

Reviews literature on amperometric, bipotentiometric, and coulometric titration methods examining: apparatus and methodology; acid-base reactions; precipitation and complexing reactions (considering methods involving silver, mercury, EDTA or analogous reagents, and other organic compounds); and oxidation-reduction reactions (considering methods…

Metal Cationization Extractive Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry of Compounds Containing Multiple Oxygens

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swanson, Kenneth D.; Spencer, Sandra E.; Glish, Gary L.

2017-06-01

Extractive electrospray ionization is an ambient ionization technique that allows real-time sampling of liquid samples, including organic aerosols. Similar to electrospray ionization, the composition of the electrospray solvent used in extractive electrospray ionization can easily be altered to form metal cationized molecules during ionization simply by adding a metal salt to the electrospray solvent. An increase in sensitivity is observed for some molecules that are lithium, sodium, or silver cationized compared with the protonated molecule formed in extractive electrospray ionization with an acid additive. Tandem mass spectrometry of metal cationized molecules can also significantly improve the ability to identify a compound. Tandem mass spectrometry of lithium and silver cationized molecules can result in an increase in the number and uniqueness of dissociation pathways relative to [M + H]+. These results highlight the potential for extractive electrospray ionization with metal cationization in analyzing complex aerosol mixtures. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

A Generalized Crystallographic Description of All Tellurium Nanostructures.

PubMed

Kim, Min-Seok; Ma, Xing-Hua; Cho, Ki-Hyun; Jeon, Seung-Yeol; Hur, Kahyun; Sung, Yun-Mo

2018-02-01

Despite tellurium being less abundant in the Earth's crust than gold, platinum, or rare-earth elements, the number of industrial applications of tellurium has rapidly increased in recent years. However, to date, many properties of tellurium and its associated compounds remain unknown. For example, formation mechanisms of many tellurium nanostructures synthesized so far have not yet been verified, and it is unclear why tellurium can readily transform to other compounds like silver telluride by simply mixing with solutions containing silver ions. This uncertainty appears to be due to previous misunderstandings about the tellurium structure. Here, a new approach to the tellurium structure via synthesized structures is proposed. It is found that the proposed approach applies not only to these structures but to all other tellurium nanostructures. Moreover, some unique tellurium nanostructures whose formation mechanism are, until now, unconfirmed can be explained. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Mineral commodity profiles: Silver

USGS Publications Warehouse

Butterman, W.C.; Hilliard, Henry E.

2005-01-01

Overview -- Silver is one of the eight precious, or noble, metals; the others are gold and the six platinum-group metals (PGM). World mine production in 2001 was 18,700 metric tons (t) and came from mines in 60 countries; the 10 leading producing countries accounted for 86 percent of the total. The largest producer was Mexico, followed by Peru, Australia, and the United States. About 25 percent of the silver mined in the world in 2001 came from silver ores; 15 percent, from gold ores and the remaining 60 percent, from copper, lead, and zinc ores. In the United States, 14 percent of the silver mined in 2001 came from silver ores; 39 percent, from gold ores; 10 percent, from copper and copper-molybdenum ores; and 37 percent, from lead, zinc, and lead-zinc ores. The precious metal ores (gold and silver) came from 30 lode mines and 10 placer mines; the base-metal ores (copper, lead, molybdenum, and zinc) came from 24 lode mines. Placer mines yielded less than 1 percent of the national silver production. Silver was mined in 12 States, of which Nevada was by far the largest producer; it accounted for nearly one-third of the national total. The production of silver at domestic mines generated employment for about 1,100 mine and mill workers. The value of mined domestic silver was estimated to be $290 million. Of the nearly 27,000 t of world silver that was fabricated in 2001, about one-third went into jewelry and silverware, one-fourth into the light-sensitive compounds used in photography, and nearly all the remainder went for industrial uses, of which there were 7 substantial uses and many other small-volume uses. By comparison, 85 percent of the silver used in the United States went to photography and industrial uses, 8 percent to jewelry and silverware, and 7 percent to coins and medals. The United States was the largest consumer of silver followed by India, Japan, and Italy; the 13 largest consuming countries accounted for nearly 90 percent of the world total. In the United States, about 30 companies accounted for more than 90 percent of the silver fabricated. The consumption of silver for all fabrication uses is expected to grow slowly through the decade ending in 2010 at about 1.3 percent per year for the world and 2.4 percent per year for the United States. World and U.S. reserves and reserve bases are more than adequate to satisfy the demand for newly mined silver through 2010. The other components of supply will be silver recovered from scrap, silver from industrial stocks, and silver bullion that is sold into the market from commodity exchange and private stocks.

Solid state ¹³C-NMR, infrared, X-ray powder diffraction and differential thermal studies of the homologous series of some mono-valent metal (Li, Na, K, Ag) n-alkanoates: a comparative study.

PubMed

Nelson, Peter N; Ellis, Henry A; White, Nicole A S

2015-06-15

A comparative study of the molecular packing, lattice structures and phase behaviors of the homologous series of some mono-valent metal carboxylates (Li, Na, K and Ag) is carried out via solid state FT-infrared and (13)C-NMR spectroscopes, X-rays powder diffraction, density measurements, differential scanning calorimetry, polarizing light microscopy and variable temperature infrared spectroscopy. It is proposed that, for lithium, sodium and potassium carboxylates, metal-carboxyl coordination is via asymmetric chelating bidentate bonding with extensive intermolecular interactions to form tetrahedral metal centers, irrespective of chain length. However, for silver n-alkanoates, carboxyl moieties are bound to silver ions via syn-syn type bridging bidentate coordination to form dimeric units held together by extensive head group inter-molecular interactions. Furthermore, the fully extended hydrocarbon chains which are crystallized in the all-trans conformation are tilted at ca. 30°, 27°, 15° and 31° with respect to a normal to the metal plane, for lithium, sodium, silver and potassium carboxylates, respectively. All compounds are packed as lamellar bilayer structures, however, lithium compounds are crystallized in a triclinic crystal system whilst silver, sodium and potassium n-alkanoates are all monoclinic with possible P1 bravais lattice. Odd-even alternation observed in various physical features is associated with different inter-planar spacing between closely packed layers in the bilayer which are not in the same plane; a phenomenon controlled by lattice packing symmetry requirements. All compounds, except silver carboxylates, show partially reversibly first order pre-melting transitions; the number of which increases with increasing chain length. These transitions are associated, for the most part, with lamellar collapse followed by increased gauche-trans isomerism in the methylene group assembly, irrespective of chain length. It is proposed that the absence of mesomorphic transitions in their phase sequences is due to a lack of sufficient balance between attractive and repulsive electrostatic and van der Waals forces during phase change. The evidence presented in this study shows that phase behaviors of mono-valent metal carboxylates are controlled, mainly, by head group bonding. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Using silver and bighead carp cell lines for the identification of a unique metabolite fingerprint from thiram-specific chemical exposure

USGS Publications Warehouse

Putnam, Joel G.; Nelson, Justine; Leis, Eric M; Erickson, Richard A.; Hubert, Terrance D.; Amberg, Jon J.

2017-01-01

Conservation biology often requires the control of invasive species. One method is the development and use of biocides. Identifying new chemicals as part of the biocide registration approval process can require screening millions of compounds. Traditionally, screening new chemicals has been done in vivo using test organisms. Using in vitro (e.g., cell lines) and in silico (e.g., computer models) methods decrease test organism requirements and increase screening speed and efficiency. These methods, however, would be greatly improved by better understanding how individual fish species metabolize selected compounds.We combined cell assays and metabolomics to create a powerful tool to facilitate the identification of new control chemicals. Specifically, we exposed cell lines established from bighead carp and silver carp larvae to thiram (7 concentrations) then completed metabolite profiling to assess the dose-response of the bighead carp and silver carp metabolome to thiram. Forty one of the 700 metabolomic markers identified in bighead carp exhibited a dose-response to thiram exposure compared to silver carp in which 205 of 1590 metabolomic markers exhibited a dose-response. Additionally, we identified 11 statistically significant metabolomic markers based upon volcano plot analysis common between both species. This smaller subset of metabolites formed a thiram-specific metabolomic fingerprint which allowed for the creation of a toxicant specific, rather than a species-specific, metabolomic fingerprint. Metabolomic fingerprints may be used in biocide development and improve our understanding of ecologically significant events, such as mass fish kills.

Enhancement of antibacterial properties of silver nanoparticles-ceftriaxone conjugate through Mukia maderaspatana leaf extract mediated synthesis.

PubMed

Harshiny, Muthukumar; Matheswaran, Manickam; Arthanareeswaran, Gangasalam; Kumaran, Shanmugam; Rajasree, Shanmuganathan

2015-11-01

Green synthesis of nanoparticles with low range of toxicity and conjugation to antibiotics has become an attractive area of research for several biomedical applications. Nanoconjugates exhibited notable increase in biological activity compared to free antibiotic molecules. With this perception, we report the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using aqueous extract of leaves of Mukia maderaspatana and subsequent conjugation of the silver nanoparticles to antibiotic ceftriaxone. The leaves of this plant are known to be a rich source of phenolic compounds with high antioxidant activity that are used as reducing agents. The size, morphology, crystallinity, composition of the synthesized silver nanoparticles and conjugation of ceftriaxone to silver nanoparticles were studied using analytical techniques. The activity of the conjugates against Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 1790), Klebsiella pneumoniae (MTCC 3384), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), and Salmonella typhi (MTCC 3224) was compared to ceftriaxone and unconjugated nanoparticles using disc diffusion method. The effect of silver nanoparticles on the reduction of biofilms of Pseudomonas fluorescens (MTCC 6732) was determined by micro plate assay method. The antioxidant activities of extract, silver nitrate, silver nanoparticles, ceftriaxone and conjugates of nanoparticles were evaluated by radical scavenging 1, 1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl test. Ultraviolet visible spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the formation of metallic silver nanoparticles and conjugation to ceftriaxone. Atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and particle size analysis showed that the formed particles were of spherical morphology with appreciable nanosize and the conjugation was confirmed by slight increase in surface roughness. The results thus showed that the conjugation of ceftriaxone with silver nanoparticles has better antioxidant and antimicrobial effects than ceftriaxone and unconjugated nanoparticles. It can be suggested that M. maderaspatana mediated nanoparticle-ceftriaxone conjugate can be used effectively in the production of potential antioxidant and antimicrobial agents. The present study offers a significant overview to the development of novel antimicrobial nanoparticles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Solid state electrochemical current source

DOEpatents

Potanin, Alexander Arkadyevich; Vedeneev, Nikolai Ivanovich

2002-04-30

A cathode and a solid state electrochemical cell comprising said cathode, a solid anode and solid fluoride ion conducting electrolyte. The cathode comprises a metal oxide and a compound fluoride containing at least two metals with different valences. Representative compound fluorides include solid solutions of bismuth fluoride and potassium fluoride; and lead fluoride and potassium fluoride. Representative metal oxides include copper oxide, lead oxide, manganese oxide, vanadium oxide and silver oxide.

Experimental investigation of the ionization mechanisms of uranium in thermal ionization mass spectrometry in the presence of carbon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kraiem, M.; Mayer, K.; Gouder, T.; Seibert, A.; Wiss, T.; Thiele, H.; Hiernaut, J.-P.

2010-01-01

Thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) is a well established instrumental technique for providing accurate and precise isotope ratio measurements of elements with reasonably low first ionization potential. In nuclear safeguards and in environmental research, it is often required to measure the isotope ratios in small samples of uranium. Empirical studies had shown that the ionization yield of uranium and plutonium in a TIMS ion source can be significantly increased in the presence of a carbon source. But, even though carbon appeared crucial in providing high ionization yields, processes taking place on the ionization surface were still not well understood. This paper describes the experimental results obtained from an extended study on the evaporation and ionization mechanisms of uranium occurring on a rhenium mass spectrometry filament in the presence of carbon. Solid state reactions were investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Additionally, vaporization measurements were performed with a modified-Knudsen cell mass spectrometer for providing information on the neutral uranium species in the vapor phase. Upon heating, under vacuum, the uranyl nitrate sample was found to turn into a uranium carbide compound, independent of the type of carbon used as ionization enhancer. With further heating, uranium carbide leads to formation of single charged uranium metal ions and a small amount of uranium carbide ions. The results are relevant for a thorough understanding of the ion source chemistry of a uranyl nitrate sample under reducing conditions. The significant increase in ionization yield described by many authors on the basis of empirical results can be now fully explained and understood.

Passivation of uranium towards air corrosion by N 2+ and C + ion implantation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arkush, R.; Mintz, M. H.; Shamir, N.

2000-10-01

The passivation of uranium surfaces against air corrosion, by ion implantation processes was studied, using surface analysis methods. Implanting 45 keV N +2 and C + ions produces thin modified surface layers with gradual gradients of the corresponding compounds (i.e., nitrides and carbides, respectively), which avoid the formation of discontinuous interfaces typical to coatings. Such gradual interfaces impart excellent mechanical stability and adhesion to the modified layers, in spite of the large misfit between the metal substrate and the implantation on induced compounds. It turns out that these layers provide an almost absolute protection against air corrosion. A rapid initial stage of oxidation of the modified surface layers takes place, forming very thin protective oxidation zones (1-4 nm thick), which practically stop further air oxidation for years. The mechanism of the initial oxidation stage of the modified layers seems to vary with the type of surface (i.e., either nitrides or carbides). However, in any case the protection ability of the formed oxidation products is excellent, probably due to the close match between these compounds and the underlying nitrides or carbides.

Pseudopotential for ab initio calculations of uranium compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smirnov, G. S.; Pisarev, V. V.; Stegailov, V. V.

2018-01-01

The density functional theory (DFT) is a research tool of the highest importance for electronic structure calculations. It is often the only affordable method for ab initio calculations of complex materials. The pseudopotential approach allows reducing the total number of electrons in the model that speeds up calculations. However, there is a lack of pseudopotentials for heavy elements suitable for condensed matter DFT models. In this work, we present a pseudopotential for uranium developed in the Goedecker-Teter-Hutter form. Its accuracy is illustrated using several molecular and solid-state calculations.

METHOD FOR THE RECOVERY AND PURIFICATION OF GASEOUS UF$sub 6$ FROM GASEOUS MIXTURES AND UF$sub 7$NO AND UF$sub 7$NO$sub 2$ PRODUCTS PRODUCED THEREBY

DOEpatents

Ogle, P.R. Jr.

1962-06-16

A method is given for recovering uranium hexafluoride from a gaseous mixture containing said uranium hexafluoride and extraneous gaseous impurities. The method comprises reacting said mixture with a nitrogen oxyfluoride at a temperature in the range - 100 to 50 deg C to thereby form a solid compound having the empirical formula UF/sub 7/N(O)/sub x/ where x is a number from 1 to 2. (AEC)

Formation of unprecedented actinidecarbon triple bonds in uranium methylidyne molecules

PubMed Central

Lyon, Jonathan T.; Hu, Han-Shi; Andrews, Lester; Li, Jun

2007-01-01

Chemistry of the actinide elements represents a challenging yet vital scientific frontier. Development of actinide chemistry requires fundamental understanding of the relative roles of actinide valence-region orbitals and the nature of their chemical bonding. We report here an experimental and theoretical investigation of the uranium methylidyne molecules X3UCH (X = F, Cl, Br), F2ClUCH, and F3UCF formed through reactions of laser-ablated uranium atoms and trihalomethanes or carbon tetrafluoride in excess argon. By using matrix infrared spectroscopy and relativistic quantum chemistry calculations, we have shown that these actinide complexes possess relatively strong UC triple bonds between the U 6d-5f hybrid orbitals and carbon 2s-2p orbitals. Electron-withdrawing ligands are critical in stabilizing the U(VI) oxidation state and sustaining the formation of uranium multiple bonds. These unique UC-bearing molecules are examples of the long-sought actinide-alkylidynes. This discovery opens the door to the rational synthesis of triple-bonded actinidecarbon compounds. PMID:18024591

Irradiation performance of AGR-1 high temperature reactor fuel

DOE PAGES

Demkowicz, Paul A.; Hunn, John D.; Ploger, Scott A.; ...

2015-10-23

The AGR-1 experiment contained 72 low-enriched uranium oxide/uranium carbide TRISO coated particle fuel compacts in six capsules irradiated to burnups of 11.2 to 19.6% FIMA, with zero TRISO coating failures detected during the irradiation. The irradiation performance of the fuel including the extent of fission product release and the evolution of kernel and coating microstructures was evaluated based on detailed examination of the irradiation capsules, the fuel compacts, and individual particles. Fractional release of 110mAg from the fuel compacts was often significant, with capsule-average values ranging from 0.01 to 0.38. Analysis of silver release from individual compacts indicated that itmore » was primarily dependent on fuel temperature history. Europium and strontium were released in small amounts through intact coatings, but were found to be significantly retained in the outer pyrocarbon and compact matrix. The capsule-average fractional release from the compacts was 1 × 10 –4 to 5 × 10 –4 for 154Eu and 8 × 10 –7 to 3 × 10 –5 for 90Sr. The average 134Cs fractional release from compacts was <3 × 10 –6 when all particles maintained intact SiC. An estimated four particles out of 2.98 × 10 5 in the experiment experienced partial cesium release due to SiC failure during the irradiation, driving 134Cs fractional release in two capsules to approximately 10 –5. Identification and characterization of these particles has provided unprecedented insight into the nature and causes of SiC coating failure in high-quality TRISO fuel. In general, changes in coating morphology were found to be dominated by the behavior of the buffer and inner pyrolytic carbon (IPyC), and infrequently observed SiC layer damage was usually related to cracks in the IPyC. Palladium attack of the SiC layer was relatively minor, except for the particles that released cesium during irradiation, where SiC corrosion was found adjacent to IPyC cracks. In conclusion, palladium, silver, and uranium were found in the SiC layer of irradiated particles, and characterization of these elements within the SiC microstructure is the subject of ongoing focused study.« less

Elimination-Fusion Self-Assembly of a Nanometer-Scale 72-Nucleus Silver Cluster Caging a Pair of [EuW10 O36 ]9- Polyoxometalates.

PubMed

Zhang, Shan-Shan; Su, Hai-Feng; Wang, Zhi; Wang, Xing-Po; Chen, Wen-Xian; Zhao, Quan-Qin; Tung, Chen-Ho; Sun, Di; Zheng, Lan-Sun

2018-02-06

The largest known polyoxometalate (POM)-templated silver-alkynyl cluster, [(EuW 10 O 36 ) 2 @Ag 72 (tBuC≡C) 48 Cl 2 ⋅4 BF 4 ] (SD/Ag20), was isolated under solvothermal conditions and structurally characterized. It was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) as a {EuW 10 } 2 -in-{Ag 72 } clusters-in-cluster rod-like compound. The high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS) shows that such a double anion-templated cluster is assembled from a crucial single anion-templated Ag 42 intermediate in the solution. The crystallization of Ag 42 species (SD/Ag21), followed by SCXRD, gave an important clue about the assembly route of SD/Ag20 in solution: the Ag 42 cluster eliminates six silver atoms laterally, then fuses together at the vacant face to form the final Ag 72 cluster (elimination-fusion mechanism). The characteristic emission of [EuW 10 O 36 ] 9- is well maintained in SD/Ag20. This work not only provides a new method for the synthesis of larger silver clusters as well as the functional integration of the silver cluster and POMs, but also gives deep insights about the high-nuclear silver cluster assembly mechanism. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Compared in vivo efficiency of nanoemulsions unloaded and loaded with calixarene and soapy water in the treatment of superficial wounds contaminated by uranium.

PubMed

Grivès, Sophie; Phan, Guillaume; Bouvier-Capely, Céline; Suhard, David; Rebière, François; Agarande, Michelle; Fattal, Elias

2017-04-01

No emergency decontamination treatment is currently available in the case of radiological skin contamination by uranium compounds. First responders in the workplace or during an industrial nuclear accident must be able to treat internal contamination through skin. For this purpose, a calixarene nanoemulsion was developed for the treatment of intact skin or superficial wounds contaminated by uranium, and the decontamination efficiency of this nanoemulsion was investigated in vitro and ex vivo. The present work addresses the in vivo decontamination efficiency of this nanoemulsion, using a rat model. This efficiency is compared to the radio-decontaminant soapy water currently used in France (Trait rouge ® ) in the workplace. The results showed that both calixarene-loaded nanoemulsion and non-loaded nanoemulsion allowed a significant decontamination efficiency compared to the treatment with soapy water. Early application of the nanoemulsions on contaminated excoriated rat skin allowed decreasing the uranium content by around 85% in femurs, 95% in kidneys and 93% in urines. For skin wounded by microneedles, mimicking wounds by microstings, nanoemulsions allowed approximately a 94% decrease in the uranium retention in kidneys. However, specific chelation of uranium by calixarene molecules within the nanoemulsion was not statistically significant, probably because of the limited calixarene-to-uranium molar ratio in these experiment conditions. Moreover, these studies showed that the soapy water treatment potentiates the transcutaneous passage of uranium, thus making it bioavailable, in particular when the skin is superficially wounded. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Conductive pathway on cotton fabric created using solution with silver organometallic compound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campbell, Eric E.; He, Ruijian; Mayer, Michael

2017-10-01

A knitted cotton fabric is made conductive by thermal deposition of an organometallic silver compound (OSC). For the thermal process, the fabric was soaked with the OSC liquid and heated to 225 °C for 4 min. The cured state of the OSC is determined by the stabilization in the electrical resistance. The resulting silver metallization is shaped as nanoparticles and a continuous film. A typical resistance of a 10 cm  ×  1.5 cm metallized strip made with 1.9 ml OSC is 1.70 Ω. Various other resistance levels were achieved. A higher volume of OSC provided a lower electrical resistance for the metallized conductive path but increased its stiffness. Lower resistance was achieved by increasing the number of repeat coatings while keeping the OSC volume constant. The resistance decreased when the OSC coated fabric was elongated, an effect similar to negative piezoresistivity. A resistance of initially 0.34 Ω decreased to a minimum of 0.29 Ω at 10% elongation under repeated stretching and relaxation cycling. The metallization method reported here can be suitable for applications in the field know as technical textiles, electronic textiles (e-textiles), wearable electronics, functional garments, or smart fabrics.

Pterin detection using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy incorporating a straightforward silver colloid-based synthesis technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smyth, Ciarán A.; Mehigan, Sam; Rakovich, Yury P.; Bell, Steven E. J.; McCabe, Eithne M.

2011-07-01

Optical techniques toward the realization of sensitive and selective biosensing platforms have received considerable attention in recent times. Techniques based on interferometry, surface plasmon resonance, and waveguides have all proved popular, while spectroscopy in particular offers much potential. Raman spectroscopy is an information-rich technique in which the vibrational frequencies reveal much about the structure of a compound, but it is a weak process and offers poor sensitivity. In response to this problem, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has received much attention, due to significant increases in sensitivity instigated by bringing the sample into contact with an enhancing substrate. Here we discuss a facile and rapid technique for the detection of pterins using SERS-active colloidal silver suspensions. Pterins are a family of biological compounds that are employed in nature in color pigmentation and as facilitators in metabolic pathways. In this work, small volumes of xanthopterin, isoxanthopterin, and 7,8-dihydrobiopterin have been examined while adsorbed to silver colloids. Limits of detection have been examined for both xanthopterin and isoxanthopterin using a 10-s exposure to a 12 mW 532 nm laser, which, while showing a trade-off between scan time and signal intensity, still provides the opportunity for the investigation of simultaneous detection of both pterins in solution.

Effect of Strain Rate on Joint Strength and Failure Mode of Lead-Free Solder Joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Jian; Lei, Yongping; Fu, Hanguang; Guo, Fu

2018-03-01

In surface mount technology, the Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu solder joint has a shorter impact lifetime than a traditional lead-tin solder joint. In order to improve the impact property of SnAgCu lead-free solder joints and identify the effect of silver content on tensile strength and impact property, impact experiments were conducted at various strain rates on three selected SnAgCu based solder joints. It was found that joint failure mainly occurred in the solder material with large plastic deformation under low strain rate, while joint failure occurred at the brittle intermetallic compound layer without any plastic deformation at a high strain rate. Joint strength increased with the silver content in SnAgCu alloys in static tensile tests, while the impact property of the solder joint decreased with increasing silver content. When the strain rate was low, plastic deformation occurred with failure and the tensile strength of the Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu solder joint was higher than that of Sn-0.3Ag-0.7Cu; when the strain rate was high, joint failure mainly occurred at the brittle interface layer and the Sn-0.3Ag-0.7Cu solder joint had a better impact resistance with a thinner intermetallic compound layer.

Method for preparing a thick film conductor

DOEpatents

Nagesh, Voddarahalli K.; Fulrath, deceased, Richard M.

1978-01-01

A method for preparing a thick film conductor which comprises providing surface active glass particles, mixing the surface active glass particles with a thermally decomposable organometallic compound, for example, a silver resinate, and then decomposing the organometallic compound by heating, thereby chemically depositing metal on the glass particles. The glass particle mixture is applied to a suitable substrate either before or after the organometallic compound is thermally decomposed. The resulting system is then fired in an oxidizing atmosphere, providing a microstructure of glass particles substantially uniformly coated with metal.

Effects of surface applications of biosolids on groundwater quality and trace-element concentrations in crops near Deer Trail, Colorado, 2004-2010

USGS Publications Warehouse

Yager, Tracy J.B.; Crock, James G.; Smith, David B.; Furlong, Edward T.; Hageman, Philip L.; Foreman, William T.; Gray, James L.; ReVello, Rhiannon C.

2013-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with Metro Wastewater Reclamation District (Metro District), studied biosolids composition and the effects of biosolids applications on groundwater quality and trace-element concentrations in crops of the Metro District properties near Deer Trail, Colorado, during 2004 through 2010. Priority parameters for each monitoring component included the nine trace elements regulated by Colorado for biosolids (arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, and zinc); other constituents also were analyzed. All concentrations for the priority parameters in monthly biosolids samples were less than Colorado regulatory limits, and the concentrations were relatively consistent. Biosolids likely were the largest source of nitrogen and phosphorus on the Metro District properties. Plutonium isotopes were not detected in the biosolids, but many organic wastewater compounds (organic wastewater compounds: wastewater indicators, pharmaceuticals, and hormones) were detected in substantial concentrations relative to minimum reporting levels and various surface-water concentrations. Bismuth, copper, mercury, nitrogen, phosphorus, silver, biogenic sterols, detergent degradates, disinfectants, fire retardants, fragrances, pharmaceuticals, and plasticizers would be the most likely biosolids signature to indicate the presence of Metro District biosolids in soil or streambed sediment from the study area. Antimony, cadmium, cobalt, copper, molybdenum, nickel, nitrogen, phosphorus, selenium, tungsten, vanadium, zinc, detergent degradates, disinfectants, fire retardants, fragrances, pharmaceuticals or their degradates, and plasticizers would be the most likely biosolids signature for groundwater and surface water in the study area. More biosolids-signature components detected and larger concentration differences from untreated materials, baseline, and blank samples indicate more evidence of biosolids presence or effects. Although the inorganic constituent concentrations were relatively large in samples from one monitoring well, the concentrations of organic wastewater compounds in groundwater samples were not correspondingly large. Concentrations of organic wastewater compounds in the groundwater samples from all five monitoring wells were less than the minimum reporting levels with only a few detections. Some of the organic wastewater compounds detected could have anthropogenic sources that are not biosolids. Concentrations of priority parameters in groundwater varied spatially and temporally but generally were less than Colorado regulatory limits. Concentrations of dissolved nitrate, arsenic, and selenium, in addition to chloride, sulfate, total dissolved solids, boron, iron, manganese, and uranium, in samples from some wells exceeded the Colorado standards. Concentrations of dissolved nitrate (three wells), molybdenum (one well), selenium (two wells), and uranium (one well) in shallow groundwater had significant (alpha = 0.05) upward trends in some parts of the study area. The biosolids-signature results indicate that the aquifers intercepted by the five routinely sampled wells likely have received some recharge through treated (biosolids-applied) fields or biosolids-affected ponds. Adverse effects from this biosolids-related recharge range from few (if any) at one well to large and significantly (alpha = 0.05) increasing nitrate concentrations at another well. A statistical evaluation of five paired wheat-grain samples from treated (biosolids-applied) fields and untreated (control) fields did not indicate any evidence that biosolids applications significantly (alpha = 0.05 or 0.10) increased concentration of any of these constituents in wheat grain. The wheat-grain concentrations from this study were similar to those from other studies for fields in North America where no biosolids were applied. The data for the limited crop samples indicate that biosolids applications are not increasing the concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, sulfur, and zinc in mature wheat grain from the study area.

Summary of the mineralogy of the Colorado Plateau uranium ores

USGS Publications Warehouse

Weeks, Alice D.; Coleman, Robert Griffin; Thompson, Mary E.

1956-01-01

In the Colorado Plateau uranium has been produced chiefly from very shallow mines in carnotite ores (oxidized vanadiferous uranium ores) until recent deeper mining penetrated black unoxidized ores in water-saturated rocks and extensive exploration has discovered many deposits of low to nonvanadiferous ores. The uranium ores include a wide range from highly vanadiferous and from as much as one percent to a trace of copper, and contain a small amount of iron and traces of lead, zinc, molybdenum, cobalt, nickel, silver, manganese, and other metals. Recent investigation indicates that the carnotite ores have been derived by progressive oxidation of primary (unoxidized) black ores that contain low-valent uranium and vanadium oxides and silicates. The uranium minerals, uraninite and coffinite, are associated with coalified wood or other carbonaceous material. The vanadium minerals, chiefly montroseite, roscoelite, and other vanadium silicates, occur in the interstices of the sandstone and in siltstone and clay pellets as well as associated with fossil wood. Calcite, dolomite, barite and minor amounts of sulfides, arsenides, and selenides occur in the unoxidized ore. Partially oxidized vanadiferous ore is blue black, purplish brown, or greenish black in contrast to the black or dark gray unoxidized ore. Vanadium combines with uranium to form rauvite. The excess vanadium is present in corvusite, fernandinite, melanovanadite and many other quadrivalent and quinquevalent vanadium minerals as well as in vanadium silicates. Pyrite and part or all of the calcite are replaced by iron oxides and gypsum. In oxidized vanadiferous uranium ores the uranium is fixed in the relatively insoluble minerals carnotite and tyuyamunite, and the excess vanadium commonly combines with one or more of the following: calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, aluminum, iron, copper, manganese, or barium, or rarely it forms the hydrated pentoxide. The relatively stable vanadium silicates are little affected by oxidation. The unoxidized nonvanadiferous ores contain uraninite and coffinite in close association with coalified wood and iron and copper sulfides, and traces of many other sulfides, arsenides and selenides. The oxidized nonvanadiferous ores differ from the vanadiferous ores because, in the absence of vanadium to complex the uranium, a great variety of secondary yellow and greenish-yellow uranyl minerals are formed. The uranyl sulfates and carbonates are more common than the oxides, phosphates, arsenates, and silicates. Because the sulfates and carbonates are much less stable that carnotite, the oxidized nonvanadiferous ores occure only as halos around cores of unoxidized ore and do not form large oxidized deposits close to the surface of the ground as carnotite ores. Oxidation has taken place since the lowering of the water table in the present erosion cycle. Because of local structures and the highly lenticular character of the fluviatile host rocks perched water tables and water-saturated lenses of sandstone are common high above the regional water table. Unoxidized ore has been preserved in these water-saturated rocks and the boundary between oxidized and unoxidized ore is very irregular.

Synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of the first uranium metallocene 1,2 bis(diphenylphosphino)acetylene complexes.

DOE PAGES

Pagano, Justin Kane; Scott, Brian Lindley; Kiplinger, Jaqueline Loetsch

2018-06-09

Two new uranium metallacyclopropenes, (C 5Me 4R) 2U(η 2-Ph 2PC=CPPh 2) (R = Me, Et) were prepared by reducing the corresponding (C 5Me 4R) 2UCl 2 complexes with KC 8 in the presence of 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)acetylene (Ph 2P–C≡C–PPh 2). Both compounds were fully characterized by a combination of elemental analysis and multinuclear NMR, UV–visible–NIR, and IR spectroscopies. Differences in the electronic spectra of these novel compounds and the known (C 5Me 5) 2U(η 2-Me 3SiC=CSiMe 3) are discussed. Finally, also presented is the solid-state structure of (C 5Me 4Et) 2U(η 2-Ph 2PC=CPPh 2), which reveals significant distortions of the coordinated 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)acetylenemore » (Ph 2P–C≡C–PPh 2) ligand.« less

Synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of the first uranium metallocene 1,2 bis(diphenylphosphino)acetylene complexes.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pagano, Justin Kane; Scott, Brian Lindley; Kiplinger, Jaqueline Loetsch

Two new uranium metallacyclopropenes, (C 5Me 4R) 2U(η 2-Ph 2PC=CPPh 2) (R = Me, Et) were prepared by reducing the corresponding (C 5Me 4R) 2UCl 2 complexes with KC 8 in the presence of 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)acetylene (Ph 2P–C≡C–PPh 2). Both compounds were fully characterized by a combination of elemental analysis and multinuclear NMR, UV–visible–NIR, and IR spectroscopies. Differences in the electronic spectra of these novel compounds and the known (C 5Me 5) 2U(η 2-Me 3SiC=CSiMe 3) are discussed. Finally, also presented is the solid-state structure of (C 5Me 4Et) 2U(η 2-Ph 2PC=CPPh 2), which reveals significant distortions of the coordinated 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)acetylenemore » (Ph 2P–C≡C–PPh 2) ligand.« less

Germanium and uranium in coalified wood bom upper Devonian black shale

USGS Publications Warehouse

Breger, I.A.; Schopf, J.M.

1955-01-01

Microscopic study of black, vitreous, carbonaceous material occurring in the Chattanooga shale in Tennessee and in the Cleveland member of the Ohio shale in Ohio has revealed coalified woody plant tissue. Some samples have shown sufficient detail to be identified with the genus Cauixylon. Similar material has been reported in the literature as "bituminous" or "asphaltic" stringers. Spectrographic analyses of the ash from the coalified wood have shown unusually high percentages of germanium, uranium, vanadium, and nickel. The inverse relationship between uranium and germanium in the ash and the ash content of various samples shows an association of these elements with the organic constituents of the coal. On the basis of geochemical considerations, it seems most probable that the wood or coalified wood was germanium-bearing at the time logs or woody fragmenta were floated into the basins of deposition of the Chattanooga shale and the Cleveland member of the Ohio shale. Once within the marine environment, the material probably absorbed uranium with the formation of organo-uranium compounds such as exist in coals. It is suggested that a more systematic search for germaniferous coals in the vicinity of the Chattanooga shale and the Cleveland member of the Ohio shale might be rewarding. ?? 1955.

Silver(i) complexes with 1'-(diphenylphosphino)-1-cyanoferrocene: the art of improvisation in coordination.

PubMed

Škoch, Karel; Uhlík, Filip; Císařová, Ivana; Štěpnička, Petr

2016-06-28

1'-(Diphenylphosphino)-1-cyanoferrocene () reacts with silver(i) halides at a 1 : 1 metal-to-ligand ratio to afford the heterocubane complexes [Ag(μ3-X)(-κP)]4, where X = Cl (), Br (), and I (). In addition, the reaction with AgCl with 2 equiv. of leads to chloride-bridged dimer [(μ-Cl)2{Ag(-κP)2}2] () and, presumably, also to [(μ(P,N)-){AgCl(-κP)}]2 (). While similar reactions with AgCN furnished only the insoluble coordination polymer [(-κP)2Ag(NC)Ag(CN)]n (), those with AgSCN afforded the heterocubane [Ag(-κP)(μ-SCN-S,S,N)]4 () and the thiocyanato-bridged disilver(i) complex [Ag(-κP)2(μ-SCN-S,N)]2 (), thereby resembling reactions in the AgCl- system. Attempted reactions with AgF led to ill-defined products, among which [Ag(-κP)2(μ-HF2)]2 () and [(μ-SiF6){Ag(-κP)2}2] () could be identified. The latter compound was prepared also from Ag2[SiF6] and . Reactions between and AgClO4 or Ag[BF4] afforded disilver complexes [(μ(P,N)-)Ag(ClO4-κO)]2 () and [(μ(P,N)-)Ag(BF4-κF)]2 () featuring pseudolinear Ag(i) centers that are weakly coordinated by the counter anions. A similar reaction with Ag[SbF6] followed by crystallization from ethyl acetate produced an analogous complex, albeit with coordinated solvent, [(μ(P,N)-)Ag(AcOEt-κO)]2[SbF6]2 (). Ultimately, a compound devoid of any additional ligands at the Ag(i) centers, [(μ(P,N)-)Ag]2[B(C6H3(CF3)2-3,5)4]2 (), was obtained from the reaction of with silver(i) tetrakis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate. The reaction of Ag[BF4] with two equivalents of produced unique coordination polymer [Ag(-κP)(μ(P,N)-)]n[BF4]n (), the structure of which contained one of the phosphinoferrocene ligands coordinated as a P,N-chelate and the other forming a bridge to an adjacent Ag(i) center. All of these compounds were structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray crystallography, revealing that the lengths of the bonds between silver and its anionic ligand(s) typically exceed the sum of the respective covalent radii, which is in line with the results of theoretical calculations at the density-functional theory (DFT) level, suggesting that standard covalent dative bonds are formed between silver and phosphorus (soft acid/soft base interactions) while the interactions between silver and the ligand's nitrile group (if coordinated) or the supporting anion are of predominantly electrostatic nature.

In vitro assessment of the antimicrobial activity of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles against fish pathogens.

PubMed

Shaalan, Mohamed Ibrahim; El-Mahdy, Magdy Mohamed; Theiner, Sarah; El-Matbouli, Mansour; Saleh, Mona

2017-07-21

Antibiotic resistance is a global issue that threatens public health. The excessive use of antibiotics contributes to this problem as the genes of antibiotic resistance can be transferred between the bacteria in humans, animals and aquatic organisms. Metallic nanoparticles could serve as future substitutes for some conventional antibiotics because of their antimicrobial activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial effects of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles against major fish pathogens and assess their safety in vitro. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized by chemical reduction and characterized with UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and zeta sizer. The concentrations of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles were measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Subsequently, silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles were tested for their antimicrobial activity against Aeromonas hydrophila, Aeromonas salmonicida subsp. salmonicida, Edwardsiella ictaluri, Edwardsiella tarda, Francisella noatunensis subsp. orientalis, Yersinia ruckeri and Aphanomyces invadans and the minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined. MTT assay was performed on eel kidney cell line (EK-1) to determine the cell viability after incubation with nanoparticles. The interaction between silver nanoparticles and A. salmonicida was investigated by transmission electron microscopy. The tested nanoparticles exhibited marked antimicrobial activity. Silver nanoparticles inhibited the growth of both A. salmonicida and A. invadans at a concentration of 17 µg/mL. Zinc oxide nanoparticles inhibited the growth of A. salmonicida, Y. ruckeri and A. invadans at concentrations of 15.75, 31.5 and 3.15 µg/mL respectively. Silver nanoparticles showed higher cell viability when compared to zinc oxide nanoparticles in the MTT assay. Transmission electron microscopy showed the attachment of silver nanoparticles to the bacterial membrane and disruption of its integrity. This is the first study on inhibitory effects of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles towards A. salmonicida and A. invadans. Moreover, zinc oxide nanoparticles inhibited the growth of Y. ruckeri. In low concentrations, silver nanoparticles were less cytotoxic than zinc oxide nanoparticles and represent an alternative antimicrobial compound against A. hydrophila, A. salmonicida and A. invadans.

Comparison of silver, cesium, and strontium release predictions using PARFUME with results from the AGR-1 irradiation experiment

DOE PAGES

Collin, Blaise P.; Petti, David A.; Demkowicz, Paul A.; ...

2015-08-22

Here, the PARFUME (PARticle FUel ModEl) code was used to predict the release of fission products silver, cesium, and strontium from tristructural isotropic coated fuel particles and compacts during the first irradiation experiment (AGR-1) of the Advanced Gas Reactor Fuel Development and Qualification program. The PARFUME model for the AGR-1 experiment used the fuel compact volume average temperature for each of the 620 days of irradiation to calculate the release of silver, cesium, and strontium from a representative particle for a select number of AGR-1 compacts. Post-irradiation examination measurements provided data on release of these fission products from fuel compactsmore » and fuel particles, and retention of silver in the compacts outside of the silicon carbide (SiC) layer. PARFUME-predicted fractional release of silver, cesium, and strontium was determined and compared to the PIE measurements. For silver, comparisons show a trend of over-prediction at low burnup and under-prediction at high burnup. PARFUME has limitations in the modeling of the temporal and spatial distributions of the temperature and burnup across the compacts, which affects the accuracy of its predictions. Nevertheless, the comparisons on silver release lie in the same order of magnitude. Results show an overall over-prediction of the fractional release of cesium by PARFUME. For particles with failed SiC layers, the over-prediction is by a factor of up to 3, corresponding to a potential over-estimation of the diffusivity in uranium oxycarbide (UCO) by a factor of up to 250. For intact particles, whose release is much lower, the over-prediction is by a factor of up to 100, which could be attributed to an over-estimated diffusivity in SiC by about 40% on average. The release of strontium from intact particles is also over-predicted by PARFUME, which also points towards an over-estimated diffusivity of strontium in either SiC or UCO, or possibly both. The measured strontium fractional release from intact particles varied considerably from compact to compact, making it difficult to assess the effective over-estimation of the diffusivities. Moreover, the release of strontium from particles with failed SiC is difficult to observe experimentally due to the release from intact particles, preventing any conclusions to be made on the accuracy or validity of the PARFUME predictions and the modeled diffusivity of strontium in UCO.« less

Comparison of silver, cesium, and strontium release predictions using PARFUME with results from the AGR-1 irradiation experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collin, Blaise P.; Petti, David A.; Demkowicz, Paul A.; Maki, John T.

2015-11-01

The PARFUME (PARticle FUel ModEl) code was used to predict the release of fission products silver, cesium, and strontium from tristructural isotropic coated fuel particles and compacts during the first irradiation experiment (AGR-1) of the Advanced Gas Reactor Fuel Development and Qualification program. The PARFUME model for the AGR-1 experiment used the fuel compact volume average temperature for each of the 620 days of irradiation to calculate the release of silver, cesium, and strontium from a representative particle for a select number of AGR-1 compacts. Post-irradiation examination (PIE) measurements provided data on release of these fission products from fuel compacts and fuel particles, and retention of silver in the compacts outside of the silicon carbide (SiC) layer. PARFUME-predicted fractional release of silver, cesium, and strontium was determined and compared to the PIE measurements. For silver, comparisons show a trend of over-prediction at low burnup and under-prediction at high burnup. PARFUME has limitations in the modeling of the temporal and spatial distributions of the temperature and burnup across the compacts, which affects the accuracy of its predictions. Nevertheless, the comparisons on silver release lie in the same order of magnitude. Results show an overall over-prediction of the fractional release of cesium by PARFUME. For particles with failed SiC layers, the over-prediction is by a factor of up to 3, corresponding to a potential over-estimation of the diffusivity in uranium oxycarbide (UCO) by a factor of up to 250. For intact particles, whose release is much lower, the over-prediction is by a factor of up to 100, which could be attributed to an over-estimated diffusivity in SiC by about 40% on average. The release of strontium from intact particles is also over-predicted by PARFUME, which also points towards an over-estimated diffusivity of strontium in either SiC or UCO, or possibly both. The measured strontium fractional release from intact particles varied considerably from compact to compact, making it difficult to assess the effective over-estimation of the diffusivities. Furthermore, the release of strontium from particles with failed SiC is difficult to observe experimentally due to the release from intact particles, preventing any conclusions to be made on the accuracy or validity of the PARFUME predictions and the modeled diffusivity of strontium in UCO.

PREPARATION OF PURE METAL FROM THEIR COMPOUNDS

DOEpatents

Slatin, H.L.

1961-08-01

S>A method is described for the preparation of uranium from U/sub 3/O/ sub 6/ by electrolytic deposition at the cathode from an alkali and/or alkaline earth fused salt bath such as fused strontium potassium chloride. (AEC)

MADISON ROADLESS AREA, MONTANA.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Simons, Frank S.; Lambeth, Robert H.

1984-01-01

A mineral-resource survey of the Madison Roadless Area in the Madison Range of southwestern Montana was made. The Madison Roadless Area has demonstrated resources of about 93,000 tons of sillimanite rock at the Placer Creek deposit and of about 83,000 tons of asbestos rock at the Karst deposit. The roadless area also has areas of substantiated phosphate resource potential; much of the phosphate is in thin deeply buried beds. An area near the south edge of the roadless area has a probable resource potential for copper and silver. The concentration of uranium-rich stream-sediment samples in the southwest part of the roadless area suggests that a further attempt to identify the source rocks might be justified.

CENTENNIAL MOUNTAINS WILDERNESS STUDY AREA, MONTANA AND IDAHO.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Witkind, Irving J.; Ridenour, James

1984-01-01

A mineral survey conducted within the Centennial Mountains Wilderness study area in Montana and Idaho showed large areas of probable and substantiated resource potential for phosphate. Byproducts that may be derived from processing the phosphate include vanadium, chromium, uranium, silver, fluorine, and the rare earths, lanthanum and yttrium. Results of a geochemical sampling program suggest that there is little promise for the occurrence of base and precious metals in the area. Although the area contains other nonmetallic deposits, such as coal, building stone, and pumiceous ash they are not considered as mineral resources. There is a probable resource potential for oil and gas and significant amounts may underlie the area around the Peet Creek and Odell Creek anticlines.

Geology and uranium deposits of the Caribou area, Boulder County, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moore, F.B.; Cavender, W.S.; Kaiser, E.P.

1954-01-01

The writers wish to acknowledge the cooperation of the staff of the Consolidated Caribou Silver Mines incorporated, who made the Caribou mine available for examination at all times and who furnished maps and suggestions that were of great assistance. Mr. A.E. Blakesley, owner of the Comstock mine, was also most cooperative in making possible the examination of his mine. Thanks are due Dr., E.E. Wahlstrom of the University of Colorado and to the Boulder Daily Camera for the use of their files containing information on the Caribou mine. To S. Lovering of the U.S. Geological Survey made many valuable suggestions on the identification of alteration products in thin section.

Sumac silver novel biodegradable nano composite for bio-medical application: antibacterial activity.

PubMed

Ghorbani, Parisa; Soltani, Mozhgan; Homayouni-Tabrizi, Masoud; Namvar, Farideh; Azizi, Susan; Mohammad, Rosfarizan; Moghaddam, Amin Boroumand

2015-07-17

The development of reliable and ecofriendly approaches for the production of nanomaterials is a significant aspect of nanotechnology nowadays. One of the most important methods, which shows enormous potential, is based on the green synthesis of nanoparticles using plant extract. In this paper, we aimed to develop a rapid, environmentally friendly process for the synthesis silver nanoparticles using aqueous extract of sumac. The bioactive compounds of sumac extract seem to play a role in the synthesis and capping of silver nanoparticles. Structural, morphological and optical properties of the nanoparticles were characterized using FTIR, XRD, FESEM and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The formation of Ag-NP was immediate within 10 min and confirmed with an absorbance band centered at 438 nm. The mean particle size for the green synthesized silver nanoparticles is 19.81 ± 3.67 nm and is fairly stable with a zeta potential value of -32.9 mV. The bio-formed Ag-NPs were effective against E. coli with a maximum inhibition zone of 14.3 ± 0.32 mm.

Metal colloids employed in the SERS of biomolecules: activation when exciting in the visible and near-infrared regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

García-Ramos, J. V.; Sánchez-Cortés, S.

1997-03-01

Silver, gold and copper colloids have been employed in the study of the nucleic bases cytosine, guanine, their alkyl derivatives 1-methylcytosine, 5-methylcytosine, 1,5-dimethylcytosine, 7-methylcytosine and 9-ethylguanosine. Cytidine, 5'-cytidinemonophosphate and 5'-adenosinemonophosphate have been also studied using silver and copper colloids. The interaction and orientation of these compounds on the metal colloids are interpreted on the basis of the SER spectra obtained, and further compared with interactions with the corresponding metallic ions in aqueous solution. Transmission electronic microscopy and ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy were also employed to characterize the silver and copper colloids before and after aggregation by 1,5-dimethylcytosine. Information on the aggregation process is presented. The activation effect of chloride, perchlorate and nitrate anions on the silver colloids employed is studied for both the visible and near-infrared regions. An assessment of the effectiveness of each colloid is made at different excitation lines. Finally, an explanation of the mechanism through which these anions exert their activation effect is given on the basis of the morphologies of the particles contained in the colloid.

Additive interaction of carbon dots extracted from soluble coffee and biogenic silver nanoparticles against bacteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andrade, Patricia F.; Nakazato, Gerson; Durán, Nelson

2017-06-01

It is known the presence of carbon dots (CDs) in carbohydrate based foods. CDs extracted from coffee grounds and instant coffee was also published. CDs from soluble coffee revealed an average size of 4.4 nm. CDs were well-dispersed in water, fluorescent and we have characterized by XPS, XRD analysis, fluorescence and by FTIR spectra. The MIC value by serial micro-dilution assays for CDs on S. aureus ATCC 25923 was 250 μg/mL and E. coli ATCC 25922 >1000 ug/mL. For silver nanoparticles biogenically synthesized was 6.7 μg/mL. Following the checkerboard assay with combining ½ MIC values of the MICs of 125 μg/mL of carbon dots and 3.4 μg/mL of silver nanoparticles, following the fractionated inhibitory concentration (FIC) index methodology, on S. aureus gave a fractionated inhibitory concentration (FIC) value of 1.0, meaning additive interaction. In general, the unfunctionalized CDs showed to be inefficient as antibacterial compounds, however the CDs extracted from Coffee powder and together silver nanoparticles appeared interesting as antibacterial association.

Mineral resources of the Whipple Mountains and Whipple Mountains Addition Wilderness Study Areas, San Bernardino County, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Marsh, Sherman P.; Raines, Gary L.; Diggles, Michael F.; Howard, Keith A.; Simpson, Robert W.; Hoover, Donald B.; Ridenour, James; Moyle, Phillip R.; Willett, Spencee L.

1988-01-01

At the request of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, approximately 85,100 acres of the Whipple Mountains Wilderness Study Area (CDCA-312) and 1,380 acres of the Whipple Mountains Addition Wilderness Study Area (AZ-050-010) were evaluated for identified mineral resources (known) and mineral resource potential (undiscovered). In this report, the Whipple Mountains and Whipple Mountains Addition Wilderness Study Areas are referred to as simply "the study area." Most of the mines and prospects with identified resources in the Whipple Mountains Wilderness Study Area are within areas designated as having mineral resource potential. The area in and around the Turk Silver mine and the Lucky Green group and the area near the northwest boundary of the study area have high mineral resource potential for copper, lead, zinc, gold, and silver. An area along the west boundary of the study area has moderate resource potential for copper lead, zinc, gold, and silver. An area in the east adjacent to the Whipple Mountains Addition Wilderness Study Area has moderate resource potential for copper, gold, and silver resources. One area on the north boundary and one on the southeast boundary of the study area have low mineral resource potential for copper, lead, zinc, gold, and silver. Two areas, one on the north boundary and one inside the east boundary of the study area, have moderate resource potential for manganese. A small area inside the south boundary of the study area has high resource potential for decorative building stone, and the entire study area has low resource potential for sand and gravel and other rock products suitable for construction. Two areas in the eastern part of the study area have low resource potential for uranium. There is no resource potential for oil and gas or geothermal resources in the Whipple Mountains Wilderness Study Area. Sites within the Whipple Mountains Wilderness Study Area with identified resources of copper, gold, silver, manganese and (or) decorative building stone are located at the Stewart mine, New American Eagle mine, Turk Silver mine, Twin Lode mine, decorative stone property, Lucky Green group, Blue Cloud mine, Nickel Plate mine, Crescent mine, Quadrangle Copper group, and the Copper Basin mine. The Whipple Mountains Addition Wilderness Study Area has moderate resource potential for copper, gold, and silver resources and low resource potential for sand and gravel and other rock products. There is no resource potential for oil and gas or for geothermal energy in the Whipple Mountains Addition Wilderness Study Area. Although there are no identified resources in the Whipple Mountains Addition Wilderness Study Area, sites within and immediately adjacent warrant further study because of gold assays from widespread, numerous samples.

Method for treating a nuclear process off-gas stream

DOEpatents

Pence, Dallas T.; Chou, Chun-Chao

1984-01-01

Disclosed is a method for selectively removing and recovering the noble gas and other gaseous components typically emitted during nuclear process operations. The method is adaptable and useful for treating dissolver off-gas effluents released during reprocessing of spent nuclear fuels whereby to permit radioactive contaminant recovery prior to releasing the remaining off-gases to the atmosphere. Briefly, the method sequentially comprises treating the off-gas stream to preliminarily remove NO.sub.x, hydrogen and carbon-containing organic compounds, and semivolatile fission product metal oxide components therefrom; adsorbing iodine components on silver-exchanged mordenite; removing water vapor carried by said stream by means of a molecular sieve; selectively removing the carbon dioxide components of said off-gas stream by means of a molecular sieve; selectively removing xenon in gas phase by passing said stream through a molecular sieve comprising silver-exchanged mordenite; selectively separating krypton from oxygen by means of a molecular sieve comprising silver-exchanged mordenite; selectively separating krypton from the bulk nitrogen stream using a molecular sieve comprising silver-exchanged mordenite cooled to about -140.degree. to -160.degree. C.; concentrating the desorbed krypton upon a molecular sieve comprising silver-exchange mordenite cooled to about -140.degree. to -160.degree. C.; and further cryogenically concentrating, and the recovering for storage, the desorbed krypton.

Thermal expansion of silver iodide-silver molybdate glasses at low temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mandanici, A.; Raimondo, A.; Cutroni, M.; Ramos, M. A.; Rodrigo, J. G.; Vieira, S.; Armellini, C.; Rocca, F.

2009-05-01

Ionic glasses obtained combining silver iodide and silver molybdate are characterized by quite low values of the glass transition temperature Tg around 320-350 K, by high values of the dc ionic conductivity even at room temperature and by a peculiar behavior of the mechanical response at ultrasonic frequencies. In fact, at temperatures well below their glass transition temperature, these glasses exhibit an intense peak of acoustic attenuation well described by two different and almost overlapping relaxational contributions. Considering also that negative thermal expansion has been reported for some molybdate crystalline compounds, we have investigated in this work the thermal expansion of two silver iodomolybdate glasses (AgI)1-x(Ag2MoO4)x for x =0.25 and x =0.33 in a wide temperature range (4.2-300 K) from cryogenic temperatures up to some 20 K below Tg using a precision capacitance dilatometer aiming to understand whether the expansivity shows some possible fingerprint corresponding to the above-mentioned mechanical response. Two different measuring methods, a quasiadiabatic and a continuous one, have been used for the thermal expansion measurements. The results are discussed in comparison with the information obtained from previous investigations based on the extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) technique and with the behavior of other ionic glasses.

Structure and decomposition of the silver formate Ag(HCO{sub 2})

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Puzan, Anna N., E-mail: anna_puzan@mail.ru; Baumer, Vyacheslav N.; Mateychenko, Pavel V.

Crystal structure of the silver formate Ag(HCO{sub 2}) has been determined (orthorhombic, sp.gr. Pccn, a=7.1199(5), b=10.3737(4), c=6.4701(3)Å, V=477.88(4) Å{sup 3}, Z=8). The structure contains isolated formate ions and the pairs Ag{sub 2}{sup 2+} which form the layers in (001) planes (the shortest Ag–Ag distances is 2.919 in the pair and 3.421 and 3.716 Å between the nearest Ag atoms of adjacent pairs). Silver formate is unstable compound which decompose spontaneously vs time. Decomposition was studied using Rietveld analysis of the powder diffraction patterns. It was concluded that the diffusion of Ag atoms leads to the formation of plate-like metal particlesmore » as nuclei in the (100) planes which settle parallel to (001) planes of the silver formate matrix. - Highlights: • Silver formate Ag(HCO{sub 2}) was synthesized and characterized. • Layered packing of Ag-Ag pairs in the structure was found. • Decomposition of Ag(HCO{sub 2}) and formation of metal phase were studied. • Rietveld-refined micro-structural characteristics during decomposition reveal the space relationship between the matrix structure and forming Ag phase REPLACE with: Space relationship between the matrix structure and forming Ag phase.« less

Anthelmintic activity of silver-extract nanoparticles synthesized from the combination of silver nanoparticles and M. charantia fruit extract.

PubMed

Rashid, Md Mamun Or; Ferdous, Jannatul; Banik, Sujan; Islam, Md Rabiul; Uddin, A H M Mazbah; Robel, Fataha Nur

2016-07-26

Present study has been conducted to know the anthelmintic activity of polyaniline coated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from Momordica charantia fruit extract. By reduction of AgNO3 in presence of NaBH4, silver nanoparticles were prepared. After mixing silver nanoparticles and extracts, coating was given on nanoparticles using polyaniline. Prepared nanoparticles were characterized by Visual, UV, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM techniques, and TEM analysis. The FTIR results implied that AgNPs were successfully synthesized and capped with bio-compounds present in the extract. The result showed that death times of worm were 35.12 ± 0.5 and 59.3 ± 0.3 minutes for M. charantia extract and Ag-nanoparticles individually. But when these two combined together, paralysis and death time fall drastically which were only 6.16 ± 0.6 and 9.1 ± 0.4 minutes respectively. Albendazole tablet was used as standard, which made worms death in 3.66 ± 0.1 minutes. Ag-Extract NPs showed strong anthelmintic activity against worm. This study has paved the way for further research to design new anthelmintic drug from the combination of M. charantia and AgNPs.

TC-99 Decontaminant from heat treated gaseous diffusion membrane -Phase I, Part B

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Oji, L.; Restivo, M.; Duignan, M.

2017-11-01

Uranium gaseous diffusion cascades represent a significant environmental challenge to dismantle, containerize and dispose as low-level radioactive waste. Baseline technologies rely on manual manipulations involving direct access to technetium-contaminated piping and materials. There is a potential to utilize novel decontamination technologies to remove the technetium and allow for on-site disposal of the very large uranium converters. Technetium entered these gaseous diffusion cascades as a hexafluoride complex in the same fashion as uranium. Technetium, as the isotope Tc-99, is an impurity that follows uranium in the first cycle of the Plutonium and Uranium Extraction (PUREX) process. The technetium speciation or exactmore » form in the gaseous diffusion cascades is not well defined. Several forms of Tc-99 compounds, mostly the fluorinated technetium compounds with varying degrees of volatility have been speculated by the scientific community to be present in these cascades. Therefore, there may be a possibility of using thermal or leaching desorption, which is independent of the technetium oxidation states, to perform an insitu removal of the technetium as a volatile species and trap the radionuclide on sorbent traps which could be disposed as low-level waste. Based on the positive results of the first part of this work1 the use of steam as a thermal decontamination agent was further explored with a second piece of used barrier material from a different location. This new series of tests included exposing more of the material surface to the flow of high temperature steam through the change in the reactor design, subjecting it to alternating periods of stream and vacuum, as well as determining if a lower temperature steam, i.e., 121°C (250°F) would be effective, too. Along with these methods, one other simpler method involving the leaching of the Tc-99 contaminated barrier material with a 1.0 M aqueous solution of ammonium carbonate, with and without sonication, was evaluated.« less

Light insensitive silver(I) cyanoximates as antimicrobial agents for indwelling medical devices.

PubMed

Gerasimchuk, Nikolay; Gamian, Andrzej; Glover, Garrett; Szponar, Bogumila

2010-11-01

Ten silver(I) cyanoximates of AgL composition (L = NC-C(NO)-R, where R is electron withdrawing groups: -CN, -C(O)NR(2), -C(O)R' (alkyl), -C(O)OEt, 2-heteroaryl fragments such as 2-pyridyl, 2-benzimidazolyl, 2-benzoxazolyl, 2-benzthiazolyl) were synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic methods and X-ray analysis. Crystal structures of four complexes were determined and revealed the formation of two-dimensional (2D) coordination polymers of different complexity in which anions exhibit bridging or combined chelate and bridging binding modes. In these compounds, anions are in the nitroso form. All studied AgL complexes are sparingly soluble in water and are thermally stable to 150 °C. Synthesized compounds demonstrated remarkable insensitivity toward visible light and UV-radiation, which was explained based on their polymeric structures with multiple covalent bonds between bridging cyanoxime ligands and Ag(I) centers. All 10 silver(I) cyanoximates were tested in vitro on the subject of their antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus sp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus hirae, Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Mycobacterium fortuitum as well as against Candida albicans in solutions, and in the solid state as pressed pellets and dried filter paper disks presoaked with solutions of AgL in DMF. Results showed pronounced antimicrobial activity for all investigated complexes. A combination of five factors: (1) light insensitivity, (2) poor water solubility, (3) high thermal stability, (4) lack of toxicity of organic ligands, and (5) in vitro antimicrobial activity allows development of silver(I) cyanoximates for medical applications. These include antimicrobial additives to acrylate glue, cured by UV-radiation, used in introduction of prosthetic joints and dental implants, and prevention of biofilm formation on several types of indwelling medical devices.

Rapid dehalogenation of pesticides and organics at the interface of reduced graphene oxide-silver nanocomposite.

PubMed

Koushik, Dibyashree; Sen Gupta, Soujit; Maliyekkal, Shihabudheen M; Pradeep, T

2016-05-05

This paper reports dehalogenation of various organohalides, especially aliphatic halocarbons and pesticides at reduced graphene oxide-silver nanocomposite (RGO@Ag). Several pesticides as well as chlorinated and fluorinated alkyl halides were chosen for this purpose. The composite and the products of degradation were characterized thoroughly by means of various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. A sequential two-step mechanism involving dehalogenation of the target pollutants by silver nanoparticles followed by adsorption of the degraded compounds onto RGO was revealed. The composite showed unusual adsorption capacity, as high as 1534 mg/g, which facilitated the complete removal of the pollutants. Irrespective of the pollutants tested, a pseudo-second-order rate equation best described the adsorption kinetics. The affinity of the composite manifested chemical differences. The high adsorption capacity and re-usability makes the composite an excellent substrate for purification of water. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of Thermal Treatment on the Antimicrobial Activity of Silver-Doped Biological Apatite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popa, Cristina Liana; Ciobanu, Carmen Steluta; Voicu, Georgeta; Vasile, Eugenia; Chifiriuc, Mariana Carmen; Iconaru, Simona Liliana; Predoi, Daniela

2015-12-01

In this paper, we report the structural and morphological properties of silver-doped hydroxyapatite (AgHAp) with a silver concentration x Ag = 0.5 before and after being thermal treated at 600 and 1000 °C. The results obtained by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Raman spectroscopy suggest that the structure of the samples changes gradually, from hydroxyapatite (AgHAp_40) to a predominant β-TCP structure (AgHAp_1000), achieved when the thermal treatment temperature is 1000 °C. In the AgHAp_600 sample, the presence of two phases, HAp and β-TCP, was highlighted. Also, scanning electron microscopy studies suggest that the shape and dimension of the nanoparticles begin to change when the temperature increases. The antimicrobial activity of the obtained compounds was evaluated against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans strains.

Gases and trace elements in soils at the North Silver Bell deposit, Pima County, Arizona

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hinkle, M.E.; Dilbert, C.A.

1984-01-01

Soil samples were collected over the North Silver Bell porphyry copper deposit near Tucson, Arizona. Volatile elements and compounds in gases derived from the soils and metallic elements in the soils were analyzed in order: (1) to see which volatile constituents of the soils might be indicative of the ore body or the alteration zones; and (2) to distinguish the ore and alteration zones by comparison of trace elements in the soil. Plots of analytical data on trace elements in soils indicated a typical distribution pattern for metals around a porphyry copper deposit, with copper, molybdenum, and arsenic concentrations higher over the ore body, and zinc, lead, and silver concentrations higher over the alteration zones. Higher than average concentrations of helium, carbon disulfide, and sulfur dioxide adsorbed on soils were found over the ore body, whereas higher concentrations of carbon dioxide and carbonyl sulfide were found over the alteration zones. ?? 1984.

Effect of natural ageing on surface of silver loaded TPE and its influence in antimicrobial efficacy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomacheski, Daiane; Pittol, Michele; Simões, Douglas Naue; Ribeiro, Vanda Ferreira; Santana, Ruth Marlene Campomanes

2017-05-01

The aim of this study is to characterize the modifications in silver loaded TPE surfaces exposed to weathering and their relation to susceptibility to microbial attack. Silver loaded TPE materials were exposed to natural ageing for nine months and modifications in antimicrobial properties and surface characteristics were evaluated. Chemical changes were investigated by using the infrared spectra. The average surface roughness and topography were determined by atomic force microscopy. Contact angle was measured to verify wettability conditions and surface free energy (SFE). After nine months of exposure, a decrease in the antimicrobial properties of loaded TPE compounds was observed. A reduction in surface roughness and improvement in wettability and high values of polar component of SFE were verified. The best antibacterial action was noticed in the sample with high Lewis acid force, lower roughness and lower carbonyl index.

PURIFICATION PROCESS

DOEpatents

Wibbles, H.L.; Miller, E.I.

1958-01-14

This patent deals with the separation of uranium from molybdenum compounds, and in particular with their separation from ether solutions containing the molybdenum in the form of acids, such as silicomolybdic and phosphomolybdic acids. After the nitric acid leach of pitchblende, the molybdenum values present in the ore are found in the leach solution in the form of complex acids. The uranium bearing solution may be purified of this molybdenum content by comtacting it with activated charcoal. The purification is improved when the acidity of the solution is low ad agitation is also beneficial. The molybdenum may subsequently be recovered from the charcosl ad the charcoal reused.

SEPARATION PROCESS USING COMPLEXING AND ADSORPTION

DOEpatents

Spedding, J.H.; Ayers, J.A.

1958-06-01

An adsorption process is described for separating plutonium from a solution of neutron-irradiated uranium containing ions of a compound of plutonium and other cations. The method consists of forming a chelate complex compound with plutoniunn ions in the solution by adding a derivative of 8- hydroxyquinoline, which derivative contains a sulfonic acid group, and adsorbing the remaining cations from the solution on a cation exchange resin, while the complexed plutonium remains in the solution.

The silver cation (Ag+): antistaphylococcal activity, mode of action and resistance studies.

PubMed

Randall, Christopher P; Oyama, Linda B; Bostock, Julieanne M; Chopra, Ian; O'Neill, Alex J

2013-01-01

To examine several poorly understood or contentious aspects of the antibacterial activity of silver (Ag(+)), including its cidality, mode of action, the prevalence of resistance amongst clinical staphylococcal isolates and the propensity for Staphylococcus aureus to develop Ag(+) resistance. The effects of Ag(+) on the viability, macromolecular synthesis and membrane integrity of S. aureus SH1000 were assessed using established methodology. Silver nitrate MICs were determined for a collection of staphylococcal isolates (n = 1006) collected from hospitals across Europe and Canada between 1997 and 2010. S. aureus biofilms were grown using the Calgary Biofilm Device. To examine the in vitro development of staphylococcal resistance to Ag(+), bacteria were subjected to continuous subculture in the presence of sub-MIC concentrations of Ag(+). Silver was bactericidal against S. aureus in buffered solution, but bacteriostatic in growth medium, and was unable to eradicate staphylococcal biofilms in vitro. Challenge of S. aureus with Ag(+) caused rapid loss of membrane integrity and inhibition of the major macromolecular synthetic pathways. All clinical staphylococcal isolates were susceptible to ≤ 16 mg/L silver nitrate and prolonged exposure (42 days) to Ag(+) in vitro failed to select resistant mutants. The rapid and extensive loss of membrane integrity observed upon challenge with Ag(+) suggests that the antibacterial activity results directly from damage to the bacterial membrane. The universal susceptibility of staphylococci to Ag(+), and failure to select for resistance to Ag(+), suggest that silver compounds remain a viable option for the prevention and treatment of topical staphylococcal infections.

Mineral resources of the Castle Peaks Wilderness Study Area, San Bernardino County, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Miller, David A.W.; Frisken, James G.; Jachens, Robert C.; Gese, Diann D.

1986-01-01

The Castle Peaks Wilderness Study Area (CDCA266) comprises approximately 45,000 acres in the northern New York Mountains, San Bernardino County, California. At the request of the Bureau of Land Management, 39,303 acres of the wilderness study area were studied. The area was investigated during 1982-1985 using combined geologic, geochemical, and geophysical methods. are considered preliminarily suitable for wilderness deignation. There are no mineral reserves or identified resources in the study area. Fluorspar, occurring in sparse veins, has moderate resource potential, as do silver and lead in fault zones, and gold and silver in sparse, high-grade veins and fault breccia. Each area of moderate resource potential encompasses less than one square mile. These same commodities have low resource potential in similar occurrences throughout much of the study area. In addition, there is low resource potential for gold in placer deposits, uranium in altered breccia and gouge, and rare-earth elements in pegmatite dikes. There is no resource potential for oil and gas resources over most of the study area, but the potential is unknown along its western margin. In this report, the area studied is referred to"the wilderness study area", or simply "the study area."

The United States Air Force in Korea 1950-1953

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-01-01

a conference of his key staff the North Korean Air Force entered members. All of them agreed that the combat. At 1315 hours two dirty silver- Fifth...Wright, chief of KMAG, reported convoys moving from Seoul to the that the enemy would be in Seoul Army Support Command compound within a day. Both Muccio...was a significant weak- This truck is being loaded with a mixed crushed rock compound used in runwayness to offensive planning. Assigned to

Experimental thermochemistry of neptunium oxides: Np2O5 and NpO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lei; Dzik, Ewa A.; Sigmon, Ginger E.; Szymanowski, Jennifer E. S.; Navrotsky, Alexandra; Burns, Peter C.

2018-04-01

Neptunium (Np) compounds are important in the nuclear fuel cycle because of the buildup and long half-life (2.14 Ma) of Np-237 in nuclear waste, especially during long-term disposal in a geological repository. Neptunium in environmental conditions exists mainly in two oxidation states (+5 and + 4) and can substitute for uranium and/or rare earths in solid phases. Yet thermochemical data for solid neptunium compounds are scarce, despite being critical for evaluating the environmental transport of this radioactive and toxic element. Although high temperature oxide melt solution calorimetry has proven very useful in obtaining thermodynamic data for the formation of uranium and thorium oxide materials, it has not yet been applied to transuranium compounds. Continuing a program at Notre Dame to study the thermodynamics of transuranium compounds, we report the first determination of the enthalpies of drop solution of well-characterized neptunium oxides (Np2O5 and NpO2) using oxide melt solution calorimetry in molten sodium molybdate solvent at 973 K. The enthalpy of the decomposition reaction, Np2O5(cr) = 2NpO2(cr) + 1/2O2(g) at 298 K, is determined to be 7.70 ± 5.86 kJ/mol, and this direct measurement is consistent with existing thermodynamic data. The calorimetric methodology is straightforward and produces reliable data using milligram quantities of radioactive materials, and can be applied to many other transuranium compounds.

Mineral resources of the Mount Tipton Wilderness Study Area, Mohave County, Arizona

USGS Publications Warehouse

Greene, Robert C.; Turner, Robert L.; Jachens, Robert C.; Lawson, William A.; Almquist, Carl L.

1989-01-01

The Mount Tipton Wilderness Study Area (AZ-020-012/ 042) comprises 33,950 acres in Mohave County, Ariz. At the request of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, this area was evaluated for identified mineral resources (known) and mineral resource potential (undiscovered). This work was carried out by the U.S. Bureau of Mines and the U.S. Geological Survey in 1984-87. In this report, the area studied is referred to as the "wilderness study area" or simply "the study area." There are no identified mineral resources in the study area. The southernmost part of the study area is adjacent to the Wallapai (Chloride) mining district and has low mineral resource potential for gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, and molybdenum in hydrothermal veins. This area also has a low mineral resource potential for tungsten in vein deposits and for uranium in vein deposits or pegmatites. In the central part of the wilderness study area, one small area has low mineral resource potential for uranium in vein deposits or pegmatites and another small area has low resource potential for thorium in vein deposits. The entire study area has low resource potential for geothermal energy but no potential for oil or gas resources.

Electrochemical Nucleation and Growth of Uranium and Plutonium from Molten Salts

DOE PAGES

Tylka, M. M.; Willit, J. L.; Williamson, M. A.

2017-07-18

This work examines the nucleation and growth behavior of uranium and plutonium from molten LiCl-KCl eutectic on inert electrodes using electrochemical techniques. Current-time transients obtained from chronoamperometric experiments were compared with theoretical models to characterize the type of nucleation (progressive or instantaneous) for deposition of U and Pu, and co-deposition of U-Pu, from molten LiCl-KCl at inert electrodes. It was established that the nucleation mode of actinides present as chlorides in molten chloride salts changes from progressive to instantaneous with an increasing concentration of the trivalent actinide ions in the salt. The effect of the material of the working electrodemore » was investigated, and it was found that changing the material from tungsten to silver improves resolvability of the nucleation peaks and allows more accurate analysis of the experimental measurements. Using the nucleation data, diffusion coefficients were obtained for U 3+ and Pu 3+, and were found to be in very good agreement with the values obtained from other studies. Furthermore, the density of nuclei produced during instantaneous nucleation, the rate of nucleation for progressive nucleation, and the radius of the deposited nuclei were evaluated and examined at different overpotentials.« less

Performance Indicators for Uranium Bioremediation in the Subsurface: Basis and Assessment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Long, Philip E.; Yabusaki, Steven B.

2006-12-29

The purpose of this letter report is to identify performance indicators for in situ engineered bioremediation of subsurface uranium (U) contamination. This report focuses on in situ treatment of groundwater by biostimulation of extant in situ microbial populations (see http://128.3.7.51/NABIR/generalinfo/primers_guides/03_NABIR_primer.pdf for background information on bioremediation of metals and radionuclides). The treatment process involves amendment of the subsurface with an electron donor such as acetate, lactate, ethanol or other organic compound such that in situ microorganisms mediate the reduction of U(VI) to U(IV). U(VI) precipitates as uraninite or other insoluble U phase. Uranium is thus immobilized in place by such processesmore » and is subject to reoxidation that may remobilize the reduced uranium. Related processes include augmenting the extant subsurface microbial populations, addition of electron acceptors, and introduction of chemically reducing materials such as zero-valent Fe. While metrics for such processes may be similar to those for in situ biostimulation, these related processes are not directly in the scope of this letter report.« less

Synthesis, crystal, and biological activity of a novel carbene silver(I) complex with imidazole derivative

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jiu-Fu, Lu, E-mail: jiufulu@163.com; Hong-Guang, Ge; Juan, Shi

2015-12-15

Reaction of 2-(1-methyl-1,2-dihydroimidazol-3-yl)acetonitrile tetrafluoroborate with silver oxide in dichloromethane readily yields [Ag(DIM){sub 2}]BF{sub 4}, where DIM is 2-(1-methyl-1, 2-dihydroimidazol-3-yl)acetonitrile, representing a carbene organic ligand. The title compound was characterized by elemental analysis, IR, MS and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystal is of monoclinic system, space group C2/c with a = 14.010(18), b = 8.303(11), c = 14.936(20) Å, β = 93.910(4)°, V = 1639(4) Å{sup 3}, Z = 4, D{sub x} = 1.771 g/cm{sup 3}, F (000) = 864, µ(MoK{sub α}) = 1.278 mm{sup –1}. The final R{sup 1} = 0.0711 and wR{sup 2} = 0.1903 for reflections withmore » I > 2σ(I). In addition, the preliminary biological test showed that the title compound had anti-fungus yeast activity.« less

Chemical quality of bottom sediments in selected streams, Jefferson County, Kentucky, April-July 1992

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moore, B.L.; Evaldi, R.D.

1995-01-01

Bottom sediments from 25 stream sites in Jefferson County, Ky., were analyzed for percent volatile solids and concentrations of nutrients, major metals, trace elements, miscellaneous inorganic compounds, and selected organic compounds. Statistical high outliers of the constituent concentrations analyzed for in the bottom sediments were defined as a measure of possible elevated concentrations. Statistical high outliers were determined for at least 1 constituent at each of 12 sampling sites in Jefferson County. Of the 10 stream basins sampled in Jefferson County, the Middle Fork Beargrass Basin, Cedar Creek Basin, and Harrods Creek Basin were the only three basins where a statistical high outlier was not found for any of the measured constituents. In the Pennsylvania Run Basin, total volatile solids, nitrate plus nitrite, and endrin constituents were statistical high outliers. Pond Creek was the only basin where five constituents were statistical high outliers-barium, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, and silver. Nitrate plus nitrite and copper constituents were the only statistical high outliers found in the Mill Creek Basin. In the Floyds Fork Basin, nitrate plus nitrite, phosphorus, mercury, and silver constituents were the only statistical high outliers. Ammonia was the only statistical high outlier found in the South Fork Beargrass Basin. In the Goose Creek Basin, mercury and silver constituents were the only statistical high outliers. Cyanide was the only statistical high outlier in the Muddy Fork Basin.

Method for forming silver-copper mixed kesterite semiconductor film

DOEpatents

Gershon, Talia S.; Gunawan, Oki; Lee, Yun S.; Mankad, Ravin

2018-01-23

After forming a layer of a Cu-deficient kesterite compound having the formula Cu.sub.2-xZn.sub.1+xSn(S.sub.ySe.sub.1-y).sub.4, wherein 0

Germanium and uranium in coalified wood from Upper Devonian black shale

USGS Publications Warehouse

Breger, Irving A.; Schopf, James M.

1954-01-01

Microscopic study of black, vitreous, carbonaceous material occurring in the Chattanooga shale in Tennessee and in the Cleveland member of the Ohio shale in Ohio has revealed coalified woody plant tissue. Some samples have shown sufficient detail to be identified with the genus Callixylon. Similar material has been reported in the literature as "bituminous" or "asphaltic" stringers. Spectrographic analyses of the ash from the coalified wood have shown unusually high percentages of germanium, uranium, vanadium, and nickel. The inverse relationship between uranium and germanium in the ash and the ash content of various samples shows an association of these elements with the organic constituents of the coal. On the basis of geochemical considerations, it seems most probable that the wood or coalified wood was germanium-bearing at the time logs or woody fragments were floated into the basins of deposition of the Chattanooga shale and the Cleveland member of the Ohio shale. Once within the marine environment, the material probably absorbed uranium with the formation of organo-uranium compounds such as have been found to exist in coals. It is suggested that a more systematic search for germaniferous coals in the vicinity of the Chattanooga shale and the Cleveland member of the Ohio shale might be rewarding.

Complexes of silver(I) ions and silver phosphate nanoparticles with hyaluronic acid and/or chitosan as promising antimicrobial agents for vascular grafts.

PubMed

Chudobova, Dagmar; Nejdl, Lukas; Gumulec, Jaromir; Krystofova, Olga; Rodrigo, Miguel Angel Merlos; Kynicky, Jindrich; Ruttkay-Nedecky, Branislav; Kopel, Pavel; Babula, Petr; Adam, Vojtech; Kizek, Rene

2013-06-28

Polymers are currently widely used to replace a variety of natural materials with respect to their favourable physical and chemical properties, and due to their economic advantage. One of the most important branches of application of polymers is the production of different products for medical use. In this case, it is necessary to face a significant disadvantage of polymer products due to possible and very common colonization of the surface by various microorganisms that can pose a potential danger to the patient. One of the possible solutions is to prepare polymer with antibacterial/antimicrobial properties that is resistant to bacterial colonization. The aim of this study was to contribute to the development of antimicrobial polymeric material ideal for covering vascular implants with subsequent use in transplant surgery. Therefore, the complexes of polymeric substances (hyaluronic acid and chitosan) with silver nitrate or silver phosphate nanoparticles were created, and their effects on gram-positive bacterial culture of Staphylococcus aureus were monitored. Stages of formation of complexes of silver nitrate and silver phosphate nanoparticles with polymeric compounds were characterized using electrochemical and spectrophotometric methods. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of complexes was determined using the methods of determination of growth curves and zones of inhibition. The results of this study revealed that the complex of chitosan, with silver phosphate nanoparticles, was the most suitable in order to have an antibacterial effect on bacterial culture of Staphylococcus aureus. Formation of this complex was under way at low concentrations of chitosan. The results of electrochemical determination corresponded with the results of spectrophotometric methods and verified good interaction and formation of the complex. The complex has an outstanding antibacterial effect and this effect was of several orders higher compared to other investigated complexes.

Complexes of Silver(I) Ions and Silver Phosphate Nanoparticles with Hyaluronic Acid and/or Chitosan as Promising Antimicrobial Agents for Vascular Grafts

PubMed Central

Chudobova, Dagmar; Nejdl, Lukas; Gumulec, Jaromir; Krystofova, Olga; Rodrigo, Miguel Angel Merlos; Kynicky, Jindrich; Ruttkay-Nedecky, Branislav; Kopel, Pavel; Babula, Petr; Adam, Vojtech; Kizek, Rene

2013-01-01

Polymers are currently widely used to replace a variety of natural materials with respect to their favourable physical and chemical properties, and due to their economic advantage. One of the most important branches of application of polymers is the production of different products for medical use. In this case, it is necessary to face a significant disadvantage of polymer products due to possible and very common colonization of the surface by various microorganisms that can pose a potential danger to the patient. One of the possible solutions is to prepare polymer with antibacterial/antimicrobial properties that is resistant to bacterial colonization. The aim of this study was to contribute to the development of antimicrobial polymeric material ideal for covering vascular implants with subsequent use in transplant surgery. Therefore, the complexes of polymeric substances (hyaluronic acid and chitosan) with silver nitrate or silver phosphate nanoparticles were created, and their effects on gram-positive bacterial culture of Staphylococcus aureus were monitored. Stages of formation of complexes of silver nitrate and silver phosphate nanoparticles with polymeric compounds were characterized using electrochemical and spectrophotometric methods. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of complexes was determined using the methods of determination of growth curves and zones of inhibition. The results of this study revealed that the complex of chitosan, with silver phosphate nanoparticles, was the most suitable in order to have an antibacterial effect on bacterial culture of Staphylococcus aureus. Formation of this complex was under way at low concentrations of chitosan. The results of electrochemical determination corresponded with the results of spectrophotometric methods and verified good interaction and formation of the complex. The complex has an outstanding antibacterial effect and this effect was of several orders higher compared to other investigated complexes. PMID:23812079

Unraveling uranium induced oxidative stress related responses in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. Part II: responses in the leaves and general conclusions.

PubMed

Vanhoudt, Nathalie; Cuypers, Ann; Horemans, Nele; Remans, Tony; Opdenakker, Kelly; Smeets, Karen; Bello, Daniel Martinez; Havaux, Michel; Wannijn, Jean; Van Hees, May; Vangronsveld, Jaco; Vandenhove, Hildegarde

2011-06-01

The cellular redox balance seems an important modulator under heavy metal stress. While for other heavy metals these processes are well studied, oxidative stress related responses are also known to be triggered under uranium stress but information remains limited. This study aimed to further unravel the mechanisms by which plants respond to uranium stress. Seventeen-day-old Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings, grown on a modified Hoagland solution under controlled conditions, were exposed to 0, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 μM uranium for 1, 3 and 7 days. While in Part I of this study oxidative stress related responses in the roots were discussed, this second Part II discusses oxidative stress related responses in the leaves and general conclusions drawn from the results of the roots and the leaves will be presented. As several responses were already visible following 1 day exposure, when uranium concentrations in the leaves were negligible, a root-to-shoot signaling system was suggested in which plastids could be important sensing sites. While lipid peroxidation, based on the amount of thiobarbituric acid reactive compounds, was observed after exposure to 100 μM uranium, affecting membrane structure and function, a transient concentration dependent response pattern was visible for lipoxygenase initiated lipid peroxidation. This transient character of uranium stress responses in leaves was emphasized by results of lipoxygenase (LOX2) and antioxidative enzyme transcript levels, enzyme capacities and glutathione concentrations both in time as with concentration. The ascorbate redox balance seemed an important modulator of uranium stress responses in the leaves as in addition to the previous transient responses, the total ascorbate concentration and ascorbate/dehydroascorbate redox balance increased in a concentration and time dependent manner. This could represent either a slow transient response or a stable increase with regard to plant acclimation to uranium stress. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A fluorescence spectroscopy study of traditional Chinese medicine Angelica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Hongyan; Song, Feng; Liu, Shujing; Chen, Guiyang; Wei, Chen; Liu, Yanling; Liu, Jiadong

2013-10-01

By measuring the fluorescence spectra of Chinese medicine (CM) Angelica water solutions with different concentrations from 0.025 to 2.5 mg/mL, results showed that the fluorescence intensity was proportional to the concentration. Through fluorescence spectra of Angelica solution under different pH values, results indicated coumarin compounds were the active ingredients of Angelica. We also observed fluorescence quenching of the Angelica solution in the presence of spherical silver nanoparticles with radius of 12 nm. Keeping a certain value for the volume of the silver nanoparticles, the fluorescence intensity at 402 nm was linearly proportional to the Angelica in the range of 1-3 mg/mL.

29 CFR 1926.55 - Gases, vapors, fumes, dusts, and mists.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Nitrous oxide 10024-97-2 E Octachloronaphthalene 2234-13-1 — 0.1 X Octane 111-65-9 400 1900 — Oil mist... — Uranium (as U) 7440-61-1 Soluble compounds — 0.2 — Insoluble compounds — 0.2 — Vanadium 1314-62-1 Respirable dust (as V2 O5) — (C)0.5 — Fume (as V2 O5) — (C)0.1 — Vegetable oil mist Total dust — — Respirable...

29 CFR 1926.55 - Gases, vapors, fumes, dusts, and mists.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Nitrous oxide 10024-97-2 E Octachloronaphthalene 2234-13-1 — 0.1 X Octane 111-65-9 400 1900 — Oil mist... — Uranium (as U) 7440-61-1 Soluble compounds — 0.2 — Insoluble compounds — 0.2 — Vanadium 1314-62-1 Respirable dust (as V2 O5) — (C)0.5 — Fume (as V2 O5) — (C)0.1 — Vegetable oil mist Total dust — — Respirable...

29 CFR 1915.1000 - Air contaminants.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... E Octachloronaphthalene 2234-13-1 — 0.1 X Octane 111-65-9 400 1900 — Oil mist, mineral 8012-95-1 — 5... — Turpentine 8006-64-2 100 560 — Uranium (as U) 7440-61-1 Soluble compounds — 0.2 — Insoluble compounds — 0.2 — Vanadium 1314-62-1 Respirable dust (as V2 O5) — (C)0.5 — Fume (as V2 O5) — (C)0.1 — Vegetable oil mist...

29 CFR 1915.1000 - Air contaminants.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... E Octachloronaphthalene 2234-13-1 — 0.1 X Octane 111-65-9 400 1900 — Oil mist, mineral 8012-95-1 — 5... — Turpentine 8006-64-2 100 560 — Uranium (as U) 7440-61-1 Soluble compounds — 0.2 — Insoluble compounds — 0.2 — Vanadium 1314-62-1 Respirable dust (as V2 O5) — (C)0.5 — Fume (as V2 O5) — (C)0.1 — Vegetable oil mist...

29 CFR 1926.55 - Gases, vapors, fumes, dusts, and mists.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Nitrous oxide 10024-97-2 E Octachloronaphthalene 2234-13-1 — 0.1 X Octane 111-65-9 400 1900 — Oil mist... — Uranium (as U) 7440-61-1 Soluble compounds — 0.2 — Insoluble compounds — 0.2 — Vanadium 1314-62-1 Respirable dust (as V2 O5) — (C)0.5 — Fume (as V2 O5) — (C)0.1 — Vegetable oil mist Total dust — — Respirable...

29 CFR 1915.1000 - Air contaminants.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... E Octachloronaphthalene 2234-13-1 — 0.1 X Octane 111-65-9 400 1900 — Oil mist, mineral 8012-95-1 — 5... — Turpentine 8006-64-2 100 560 — Uranium (as U) 7440-61-1 Soluble compounds — 0.2 — Insoluble compounds — 0.2 — Vanadium 1314-62-1 Respirable dust (as V2 O5) — (C)0.5 — Fume (as V2 O5) — (C)0.1 — Vegetable oil mist...

Electronic and Magnetic Structures, Magnetic Hyperfine Fields and Electric Field Gradients in UX3 (X = In, Tl, Pb) Intermetallic Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Sajid; Yazdani-Kachoei, Majid; Jalali-Asadabadi, Saeid; Farooq, Muhammad Bilal; Ahmad, Iftikhar

2018-02-01

Cubic uranium compounds such as UX3 (X is a non-transition element of groups IIIA or IVA) exhibit highly diverse magnetic properties, including Pauli paramagnetism, spin fluctuation and anti-ferromagnetism. In the present paper, we explore the structural, electronic and magnetic properties as well as the hyperfine fields (HFFs) and electric field gradients (EFGs) with quadrupole coupling constant of UX3 (X = In, Tl, Pb) compounds using local density approximation, Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof parametrization of generalized gradient approximation (PBE-GGA) including the Hubbard U parameter (GGA + U), a revised version of PBE-GGA that improves equilibrium properties of densely packed solids and their surfaces (PBEsol-GGA), and a hybrid functional (HF-PBEsol). The spin orbit-coupling calculations have been added to investigate the relativistic effect of electrons in these materials. The comparison between the experimental parameters and our calculated structural parameters we confirm the consistency and effectiveness of our theoretical tools. The computed magnetic moments show that magnetic moment increases from indium to lead in the UX3 family, and all these compounds are antiferromagnetic in nature. The EFGs and HFFs, as well as the quadrupole coupling constant of UX3 (X = In, Tl, Pb), are discussed in detail. These properties primarily originate from f and p states of uranium and post-transition sites.

The Five Senses of Christmas Chemistry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jackson, Derek A.; Dicks, Andrew P.

2012-01-01

This article describes the organic chemistry of five compounds that are directly associated with the Christmas season. These substances and related materials are presented within the framework of the five senses: silver fulminate (sound), alpha-pinene (sight), sodium acetate (touch), tryptophan (taste), and gingerol (smell). Connections with the…

Investigation of the electronic ground states for a reduced pyridine(diimine) uranium series: evidence for a ligand tetraanion stabilized by a uranium dimer.

PubMed

Anderson, Nickolas H; Odoh, Samuel O; Williams, Ursula J; Lewis, Andrew J; Wagner, Gregory L; Lezama Pacheco, Juan; Kozimor, Stosh A; Gagliardi, Laura; Schelter, Eric J; Bart, Suzanne C

2015-04-15

The electronic structures of a series of highly reduced uranium complexes bearing the redox-active pyridine(diimine) ligand, (Mes)PDI(Me) ((Mes)PDI(Me) = 2,6-(2,4,6-Me3-C6H2-N═CMe)2C5H3N) have been investigated. The complexes, ((Mes)PDI(Me))UI3(THF) (1), ((Mes)PDI(Me))UI2(THF)2 (2), [((Mes)PDI(Me))UI]2 (3), and [((Mes)PDI(Me))U(THF)]2 (4), were examined using electronic and X-ray absorption spectroscopies, magnetometry, and computational analyses. Taken together, these studies suggest that all members of the series contain uranium(IV) centers with 5f (2) configurations and reduced ligand frameworks, specifically [(Mes)PDI(Me)](•/-), [(Mes)PDI(Me)](2-), [(Mes)PDI(Me)](3-) and [(Mes)PDI(Me)](4-), respectively. In the cases of 2, 3, and 4 no unpaired spin density was found on the ligands, indicating a singlet diradical ligand in monomeric 2 and ligand electron spin-pairing through dimerization in 3 and 4. Interaction energies, representing enthalpies of dimerization, of -116.0 and -144.4 kcal mol(-1) were calculated using DFT for the monomers of 3 and 4, respectively, showing there is a large stabilization gained by dimerization through uranium-arene bonds. Highlighted in these studies is compound 4, bearing a previously unobserved pyridine(diimine) tetraanion, that was uniquely stabilized by backbonding between uranium cations and the η(5)-pyridyl ring.

Mortality (1950–1999) and cancer incidence (1969–1999) of workers in the Port Hope cohort study exposed to a unique combination of radium, uranium and γ-ray doses

PubMed Central

Zablotska, Lydia B; Lane, Rachel S D; Frost, Stanley E

2013-01-01

Objectives Uranium processing workers are exposed to uranium and radium compounds from the ore dust and to γ-ray radiation, but less to radon decay products (RDP), typical of the uranium miners. We examined the risks of these exposures in a cohort of workers from Port Hope radium and uranium refinery and processing plant. Design A retrospective cohort study with carefully documented exposures, which allowed separation of those with primary exposures to radium and uranium. Settings Port Hope, Ontario, Canada, uranium processors with no mining experience. Participants 3000 male and female workers first employed (1932–1980) and followed for mortality (1950–1999) and cancer incidence (1969–1999). Outcome measures Cohort mortality and incidence were compared with the general Canadian population. Poisson regression was used to evaluate the association between cumulative RDP exposures and γ-ray doses and causes of death and cancers potentially related to radium and uranium processing. Results Overall, workers had lower mortality and cancer incidence compared with the general Canadian population. In analyses restricted to men (n=2645), the person-year weighted mean cumulative RDP exposure was 15.9 working level months (WLM) and the mean cumulative whole-body γ-ray dose was 134.4 millisieverts. We observed small, non-statistically significant increases in radiation risks of mortality and incidence of lung cancer due to RDP exposures (excess relative risks/100 WLM=0.21, 95% CI <−0.45 to 1.59 and 0.77, 95% CI <−0.19 to 3.39, respectively), with similar risks for those exposed to radium and uranium. All other causes of death and cancer incidence were not significantly associated with RDP exposures or γ-ray doses or a combination of both. Conclusions In one of the largest cohort studies of workers exposed to radium, uranium and γ-ray doses, no significant radiation-associated risks were observed for any cancer site or cause of death. Continued follow-up and pooling with other cohorts of workers exposed to by-products of radium and uranium processing could provide valuable insight into occupational risks and suspected differences in risk with uranium miners. PMID:23449746

ATP7B detoxifies silver in ciliated airway epithelial cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ibricevic, Aida, E-mail: aidaibricevic@hotmail.co; Brody, Steven L., E-mail: sbrody@dom.wustl.ed; Youngs, Wiley J., E-mail: youngs@uakron.ed

2010-03-15

Silver is a centuries-old antibiotic agent currently used to treat infected burns. The sensitivity of a wide range of drug-resistant microorganisms to silver killing suggests that it may be useful for treating refractory lung infections. Toward this goal, we previously developed a methylated caffeine silver acetate compound, SCC1, that exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against clinical strains of bacteria in vitro and when nebulized to lungs in mouse infection models. Preclinical testing of high concentrations of SCC1 in primary culture mouse tracheal epithelial cells (mTEC) showed selective ciliated cell death. Ciliated cell death was induced by both silver- and copper-containing compoundsmore » but not by the methylated caffeine portion of SCC1. We hypothesized that copper transporting P-type ATPases, ATP7A and ATP7B, play a role in silver detoxification in the airway. In mTEC, ATP7A was expressed in non-ciliated cells, whereas ATP7B was expressed only in ciliated cells. The exposure of mTEC to SCC1 induced the trafficking of ATP7B, but not ATP7A, suggesting the presence of a cell-specific silver uptake and detoxification mechanisms. Indeed, the expression of the copper uptake protein CTR1 was also restricted to ciliated cells. A role of ATP7B in silver detoxification was further substantiated when treatment of SCC1 significantly increased cell death in ATP7B shRNA-treated HepG2 cells. In addition, mTEC from ATP7B{sup -/-} mice showed enhanced loss of ciliated cells compared to wild type. These studies are the first to demonstrate a cell type-specific expression of the Ag{sup +}/Cu{sup +} transporters ATP7A, ATP7B, and CTR1 in airway epithelial cells and a role for ATP7B in detoxification of these metals in the lung.« less

Isatis tinctoria mediated synthesis of amphotericin B-bound silver nanoparticles with enhanced photoinduced antileishmanial activity: A novel green approach.

PubMed

Ahmad, Aftab; Wei, Yun; Syed, Fatima; Khan, Shafiullah; Khan, Gul Majid; Tahir, Kamran; Khan, Arif Ullah; Raza, Muslim; Khan, Faheem Ullah; Yuan, Qiping

2016-08-01

After malaria, Leishmaniasis is the most prevalent infectious disease in terms of fatality and geographical distribution. The availability of a limited number of antileishmanial agents, emerging resistance to the available drugs, and the high cost of treatment complicate the treatment of leishmaniasis. To overcome these issues, critical research for new therapeutic agents with enhanced antileishmanial potential and low treatment cost is needed. In this contribution, we developed a green protocol to prepare biogenic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and amphotericin B-bound biogenic silver nanoparticles (AmB-AgNPs). Phytochemicals from the aqueous extract of Isatis tinctoria were used as reducing and capping agents to prepare silver nanoparticles. Amphotericin B was successfully adsorbed on the surface of biogenic silver nanoparticles. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by various analytical techniques. UV-Visible spectroscopy was employed to detect the characteristic localized surface plasmon resonance peaks (LSPR) for the prepared nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) studies revealed the formation of spherical silver nanoparticles with an average particle size of 10-20nm. The cubic crystalline structure of the prepared nanoparticles was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) study. FTIR spectroscopic analysis revealed that plant polyphenolic compounds are mainly involved in metal reduction and capping. Under visible light irradiation, biogenic silver nanoparticles exhibited significant activity against Leishmania tropica with an IC50 value of 4.2μg/mL. The leishmanicidal activity of these nanoparticles was considerably enhanced by conjugation with amphotericin B (IC50=2.43μg/mL). In conclusion, the findings of this study reveal that adsorption of amphotericin B, an antileishmanial drug, to biogenic silver nanoparticles, could be a safe, more effective and economic alternative to the available antileishmanial strategies. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A study on the stability and green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Ziziphora tenuior (Zt) extract at room temperature.

PubMed

Sadeghi, Babak; Gholamhoseinpoor, F

2015-01-05

Biomolecules present in plant extracts can be used to reduce metal ions to nanoparticles in a single-step green synthesis process. This biogenic reduction of metal ion to base metal is quite rapid, readily conducted at room temperature and pressure, and easily scaled up. Mediated Synthesis by plant extracts is environmentally benign. The involved reducing agents include the various water soluble plant metabolites (e.g. alkaloids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids) and co-enzymes. Silver (Ag) nanoparticles have the particular focus of plant-based syntheses. Extracts of a diverse range of Ziziphora tenuior (Zt) have been successfully used in making nanoparticles. The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant properties of this plant and its ability to synthesize silver nanoparticles. Z.tenuior leaves were used to prepare the aqueous extract for this study. Silver nanoparticles were characterized with different techniques such as UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Transmission electron microscopy experiments showed that these nanoparticles are spherical and uniformly distributed and its size is from 8 to 40 nm. FT-IR spectroscopy revealed that silver nanoparticles were functionalized with biomolecules that have primary amine group (NH₂), carbonyl group, -OH groups and other stabilizing functional groups. X-ray diffraction pattern showed high purity and face centered cubic structure of silver nanoparticles with size of 38 nm. In addition to plant extracts, live plants can be used for the synthesis. Here were view the methods of making nanoparticles using plant extracts. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) implies the right of forming silver nanoparticles. The results of TEM, SEM, FT-IR, UV-VIS and XRD confirm that the leaves extract of Zt can synthesis silver nanoparticles. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

SUMMARY REVIEW OF HEALTH EFFECTS ASSOCIATED WITH HYDROGEN FLUORIDE AND RELATED COMPOUNDS: HEALTH ISSUE ASSESSMENT

EPA Science Inventory

The major natural sources of airborne hydrogen fluoride (HF) are volcanic activity, ocean spray, and crustal weathering of fluoride-containing rocks. Anthropogenic sources include emissions from industrial operations such as aluminum and fluorocarbon production, and uranium proce...

A Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensing Method for Simultaneous Determination of Atenolol and Amiloride in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Urine Samples

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

This contribution describes a simple, fast, and sensitive application of localized surface plasmon resonance effect of silver nanoparticles for simultaneous determination of antihypertensive drugs' mixture atenolol and amiloride in both pharmaceutical dosage forms and in biological samples (urine). Silver nanoparticles were prepared by chemical reduction of silver nitrate using hydroxylamine HCL in an alkaline medium. Application of silver-hydroxylamine nanoparticles (SH NPs) provides many advantages including reproducibility, sensitivity, and cost effective way of analyte determination. Amiloride has four amino groups which act as attachment points on the surface of silver nanoparticles resulting in a synergistic effect on the absorption intensity of atenolol, leading to increase the sensitivity of the determination of both compounds. This method shows excellent advantages comparing with the previously reported methods, including accuracy, precision, and selectivity. The linear range of atenolol is 1 × 10−5–1 × 10−4 mol·L−1 and of amiloride is 1 × 10−6–1 × 10−5 mol·L−1. The limit of detection (LOD) values of atenolol and amiloride are 0.89 × 10−5 and 0.42 × 10−6 mol·L−1, respectively. PMID:29576886

Identification of the specified impurities of silver sulfadiazine using a screening of degradation products in different stress physico-chemical media.

PubMed

Cioroiu, Bogdan I; Lazar, Mihai I; Bello-López, Miguel A; Fernandez-Torres, Rut

2013-11-15

Determination of silver sulfadiazine degradation products in several stress media was carried out by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with diode array detector (DAD) and hybrid mass spectrometer triple quadrupole-linear trap. The optimal chromatographic method used a Hypercarb column with a stationary phase 100% carbon, a mobile phase composed by a mixture 45:55 formic acid 1% solution and acetonitrile and detection at 275 nm. Structure elucidation was carried out on the mass spectrometry system using same chromatographic conditions and based on MS/MS techniques. Under these conditions up to 9 possible impurities were demonstrated to be degradation products respecting silver sulfadiazine evolution under different stress conditions: temperature, acid, basic, oxidation, reduction and catalyzed photodegradation. Sulfacetamide, sulfanilic acid (4-aminobenzenesulfonic acid), aniline, pyrimidin-2-amine, 4-aminobenzenesulfonamide, 4-methylidenesulfanilaniline, 4-aminophenol, 4-amino-n-methyl benzenesulfonamide and benzenesulfonic acid were identified by mass spectrometry in order to cover the possible degradation paths of silver sulfadiazine. Kinetics were also evaluated to obtain the prediction of shelf life of the substance. The linearity domain for the method was between 0.0005 mg/ml and 0.25mg/ml for each compound. Recovery factors in accuracy determination were between 95 and 105% relative to target concentrations of silver sulfadiazine and the quantitation limit was 0.00025 mg/ml. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Behavior of Colorado Plateau uranium minerals during oxidation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Garrels, Robert Minard; Christ, C.L.

1956-01-01

Uranium occurs as U(VI) and U(IV) in minerals of the Colorado Plateau ores. The number of species containing U(VI) is large, but only two U(IV) minerals are known from the Plateau: uraninite, and oxide, and coffinite, a hydroxy-silicate. These oxidize to yield U(VI) before reacting significantly with other mineral constituents. Crystal-structure analysis has shown that U(VI) invariable occurs as uranyl ion, UO2+2. Uranyl ion may form complex carbonate or sulfate ions with resulting soluble compounds, but only in the absence of quinquevalent vanadium, arsenic, or phosphorous. In the presence of these elements in the +5 valence state, the uranyl ion is fixed in insoluble layer compounds formed by union of uranyl ion with orthovanadate, orthophosphate, or orthoarsenate. Under favorable conditions UO2+2 may react to form the relatively insoluble rutherfordine, UO2CO3, or hydrated uranyl hydroxides. These are rarely found on the Colorado Plateau as opposed to their excellent development in other uraniferous areas, a condition which is apparently related to the semiarid climate and low water table of the Plateau. Uranium may also be fixed as uranyl silicate, but little is known about minerals of this kind. In the present study emphasis has been placed on a detailing of the chemical and crystal structural changes which occur in the oxidation paragenetic sequence.

New perspectives on a 140-year legacy of mining and abandoned mine cleanup in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Yager, Douglas B.; Fey, David L.; Chapin, Thomas; Johnson, Raymond H.

2016-01-01

The Gold King mine water release that occurred on 5 August 2015 near the historical mining community of Silverton, Colorado, highlights the environmental legacy that abandoned mines have on the environment. During reclamation efforts, a breach of collapsed workings at the Gold King mine sent 3 million gallons of acidic and metal-rich mine water into the upper Animas River, a tributary to the Colorado River basin. The Gold King mine is located in the scenic, western San Juan Mountains, a region renowned for its volcano-tectonic and gold-silver-base metal mineralization history. Prior to mining, acidic drainage from hydrothermally altered areas was a major source of metals and acidity to streams, and it continues to be so. In addition to abandoned hard rock metal mines, uranium mine waste poses a long-term storage and immobilization challenge in this area. Uranium resources are mined in the Colorado Plateau, which borders the San Juan Mountains on the west. Uranium processing and repository sites along the Animas River near Durango, Colorado, are a prime example of how the legacy of mining must be managed for the health and well-being of future generations. The San Juan Mountains are part of a geoenvironmental nexus where geology, mining, agriculture, recreation, and community issues converge. This trip will explore the geology, mining, and mine cleanup history in which a community-driven, watershed-based stakeholder process is an integral part. Research tools and historical data useful for understanding complex watersheds impacted by natural sources of metals and acidity overprinted by mining will also be discussed.

Plectranthus amboinicus-mediated silver, gold, and silver-gold nanoparticles: phyto-synthetic, catalytic, and antibacterial studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Purusottam Reddy, B.; Mallikarjuna, K.; Narasimha, G.; Park, Si-Hyun

2017-08-01

Bio-based green nanotechnology aims to characterize compounds from natural sources and establish efficient routes for the preparation of nontoxic materials that have applicability in biodegradable and biocompatible devices. The present study has investigated the use of Plectranthus amboinicus leaf extracts as reducing and capping materials for the green fabrication of silver, gold, and silver-gold (Ag, Au, and Ag/Au) metal and bimetallic nanoparticles. The catalytic behavior of these phyto-inspired nanoparticles was then assessed in terms of the reduction of 4-nitrophenol. Transmission electron microscopy was used to investigate the shape, morphology, distribution, and diameter of the phytomolecules capped with Ag, Au, and Ag/Au metal nanoparticles. The nature of the crystallinity of the nanoparticles was studied by small area electron diffraction (SAED) and x-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to study the reduction and stabilizing involvement of the phyto-organic moieties in aqueous medium. The phyto-inspired Ag and Ag/Au nanoparticles demonstrated good antibacterial properties toward Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas spp. and Gram-positive Bacillus spp. and Staphylococcus spp. microorganisms using the well diffusion method. Notably, the Ag nanoparticles were shown to possess effective antibacterial properties.

Improved method for the determination of nonpurgeable suspended organic carbon in natural water by silver filter filtration, wet chemical oxidation, and infrared spectrometry

USGS Publications Warehouse

Burkhardt, Mark R.; Brenton, Ronald W.; Kammer, James A.; Jha, Virenda K.; O'Mara-Lopez, Peggy G.; Woodworth, Mark T.

1999-01-01

Precision and accuracy are reported for the first time for the analysis of nonpurgeable suspended organic carbon by silver membrane filtration followed by wet chemical oxidation. A water sample is pressure filtered through a 0.45‐μm‐pore‐size, 47‐mm‐diameter silver membrane filter. The silver membrane filter then is cut into ribbons and placed in a flame‐sealable glass ampule. The organic material trapped on the membrane filter strips is acidified, purged with oxygen to remove inorganic carbonates and volatile organic compounds, and oxidized to carbon dioxide (CO2) using phosphoric acid and potassium persulfate in the sealed glass ampule. The resulting CO2 is measured by a nondispersive infrared CO2 detector. The amount of CO2 is proportional to the concentration of chemically oxidizable nonpurgeable organic carbon in the environmental water sample. The quantitation and method detection limit for routine analysis is 0.2 mg/L. The average percent recovery in five representative matrices was 97 ± 11%. The errors associated with sampling and sample preparation of nonpurgeable suspended organic carbon are also described.

Facile synthesis of Curcuma longa tuber powder engineered metal nanoparticles for bioimaging applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sankar, Renu; Rahman, Pattanathu K. S. M.; Varunkumar, Krishnamoorthy; Anusha, Chidambaram; Kalaiarasi, Arunachalam; Shivashangari, Kanchi Subramanian; Ravikumar, Vilwanathan

2017-02-01

Nanomaterials based fluorescent agents are rapidly becoming significant and promising transformative tools for improving medical diagnostics for extensive in vivo imaging modalities. Compared with conventional fluorescent agents, nano-fluorescence has capabilities to improve the in vivo detection and enriched targeting efficiencies. In our laboratory we synthesized fluorescent metal nanoparticles of silver, copper and iron using Curcuma longa tuber powder by simple reduction. The physicochemical properties of the synthesized metal nanoparticles were attained using UV-visible spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy with EDAX spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The Curcuma longa tuber powder has one of the bioactive compound Curcumin might act as a capping agent during the synthesis of nanoparticles. The synthesized metal nanoparticles fluorescence property was confirmed by spectrofluorometry. When compared with copper and iron nanoparticles the silver nanoparticles showed high fluorescence intensity under spectrofluorometry. Moreover, in vitro cell images of the silver nanoparticles in A549 cell lines also correlated with the results of spectrofluorometry. These silver nanoparticles show inspiring cell-imaging applications. They enter into cells without any further modifications, and the fluorescence property can be utilized for fluorescence-based cell imaging applications.

Uranium Bio-accumulation and Cycling as revealed by Uranium Isotopes in Naturally Reduced Sediments from the Upper Colorado River Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lefebvre, Pierre; Noël, Vincent; Jemison, Noah; Weaver, Karrie; Bargar, John; Maher, Kate

2016-04-01

Uranium (U) groundwater contamination following oxidized U(VI) releases from weathering of mine tailings is a major concern at numerous sites across the Upper Colorado River Basin (CRB), USA. Uranium(IV)-bearing solids accumulated within naturally reduced zones (NRZs) characterized by elevated organic carbon and iron sulfide compounds. Subsequent re-oxidation of U(IV)solid to U(VI)aqueous then controls the release to groundwater and surface water, resulting in plume persistence and raising public health concerns. Thus, understanding the extent of uranium oxidation and reduction within NRZs is critical for assessing the persistence of the groundwater contamination. In this study, we measured solid-phase uranium isotope fractionation (δ238/235U) of sedimentary core samples from four study sites (Shiprock, NM, Grand Junction, Rifle and Naturita, CO) using a multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (MC-ICP-MS). We observe a strong correlation between U accumulation and the extent of isotopic fractionation, with Δ238U up to +1.8 ‰ between uranium-enriched and low concentration zones. The enrichment in the heavy isotopes within the NRZs appears to be especially important in the vadose zone, which is subject to variations in water table depth. According to previous studies, this isotopic signature is consistent with biotic reduction processes associated with metal-reducing bacteria. Positive correlations between the amount of iron sulfides and the accumulation of reduced uranium underline the importance of sulfate-reducing conditions for U(IV) retention. Furthermore, the positive fractionation associated with U reduction observed across all sites despite some variations in magnitude due to site characteristics, shows a regional trend across the Colorado River Basin. The maximum extent of 238U enrichment observed in the NRZ proximal to the water table further suggests that the redox cycling of uranium, with net release of U(VI) to the groundwater by non-fractionating oxidation, is occurring within this zone. Thus, release of uranium from the NRZs may play a critical role in the persistence of groundwater contamination at these sites.

Tannic acid-mediated green synthesis of antibacterial silver nanoparticles.

PubMed

Kim, Tae Yoon; Cha, Song-Hyun; Cho, Seonho; Park, Youmie

2016-04-01

The search for novel antibacterial agents is necessary to combat microbial resistance to current antibiotics. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been reported to be effective antibacterial agents. Tannic acid is a polyphenol compound from plants with antioxidant and antibacterial activities. In this report, AgNPs were prepared from silver ions by tannic acid-mediated green synthesis (TA-AgNPs). The reaction process was facile and involved mixing both silver ions and tannic acid. The absorbance at 423 nm in the UV-Visible spectra demonstrated that tannic acid underwent a reduction reaction to produce TA-AgNPs from silver ions. The synthetic yield of TA-AgNPs was 90.5% based on inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy images indicated that spherical-shaped TA-AgNPs with a mean particle size of 27.7-46.7 nm were obtained. Powder high-resolution X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that the TA-AgNP structure was face-centered cubic with a zeta potential of -27.56 mV. The hydroxyl functional groups of tannic acid contributed to the synthesis of TA-AgNPs, which was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The in vitro antibacterial activity was measured using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. The TA-AgNPs were more effective against Gram-negative bacteria than Gram-positive bacteria. The MIC for the TA-AgNPs in all of the tested strains was in a silver concentration range of 6.74-13.48 μg/mL. The tannic acid-mediated synthesis of AgNPs afforded biocompatible nanocomposites for antibacterial applications.

Catalytic potential of bio-synthesized silver nanoparticles using Convolvulus arvensis extract for the degradation of environmental pollutants.

PubMed

Rasheed, Tahir; Bilal, Muhammad; Li, Chuanlong; Nabeel, Faran; Khalid, Muhammad; Iqbal, Hafiz M N

2018-04-01

Herein, we reported a facile, green and environmental friendlier biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using the Convolvulus arvensis extract. The influences of various physicochemical factors such as the concentration of the plant extract, reaction time, and different pH levels were investigated by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The UV-Visible absorption spectrum of biogenic silver nanoparticles at λ max around ~400 nm suggested the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was employed to confirm the chemical transformation and role of various phyto-reductants in the conversion of Ag + to Ag 0 . The surface morphology, topography, and elemental composition were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, respectively. X-ray diffraction corroborated the face-centered cubic crystalline structure. The dynamic light scattering and zeta potential demonstrate the size distribution (90.9 nm) and surface charge (-18.5). Finally, the newly developed C. arvensis based silver nanoparticles were exploited as a catalyst for the catalytic reduction of azo dyes in the presence of NaBH 4 as a reducing agent, and reducing the activity of C. arvensis based silver nanoparticles was evaluated by a decrease in optical density using UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The nanoparticles developed herein displayed potential efficiency for the degradation of all the tested dye pollutants. Conclusively, plant-based synthesis of nanoparticles provides an environmentally-responsive option for the reduction of highly environmental-polluted organic compounds including toxic azo dyes as compared to chemical and physical methods. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hydrothermal Synthesis and Crystal Structures of Actinide Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Runde, Wolfgang; Neu, Mary P.

Since the 1950s actinides have been used to benefit industry, science, health, and national security. The largest industrial application, electricity generation from uranium and thorium fuels, is growing worldwide. Thus, more actinides are being mined, produced, used and processed than ever before. The future of nuclear energy hinges on how these increasing amounts of actinides are contained in each stage of the fuel cycle, including disposition. In addition, uranium and plutonium were built up during the Cold War between the United States and the Former Soviet Union for defense purposes and nuclear energy. These stockpiles have been significantly reduced in the last decade.

URANIUM DECONTAMINATION

DOEpatents

Buckingham, J.S.; Carroll, J.L.

1959-12-22

A process is described for reducing the extractability of ruthenium, zirconium, and niobium values into hexone contained in an aqueous nitric acid uranium-containing solution. The solution is made acid-deficient, heated to between 55 and 70 deg C, and at that temperature a water-soluble inorganic thiosulfate is added. By this, a precipitate is formed which carries the bulk of the ruthenium, and the remainder of the ruthenium as well as the zirconium and niobium are converted to a hexone-nonextractable form. The rutheniumcontaining precipitate can either be removed from the solu tion or it can be dissolved as a hexone-non-extractable compound by the addition of sodium dichromate prior to hexone extraction.

Raman spectroscopic investigation of thorium dioxide-uranium dioxide (ThO₂-UO₂) fuel materials.

PubMed

Rao, Rekha; Bhagat, R K; Salke, Nilesh P; Kumar, Arun

2014-01-01

Raman spectroscopic investigations were carried out on proposed nuclear fuel thorium dioxide-uranium dioxide (ThO2-UO2) solid solutions and simulated fuels based on ThO2-UO2. Raman spectra of ThO2-UO2 solid solutions exhibited two-mode behavior in the entire composition range. Variations in mode frequencies and relative intensities of Raman modes enabled estimation of composition, defects, and oxygen stoichiometry in these compounds that are essential for their application. The present study shows that Raman spectroscopy is a simple, promising analytical tool for nondestructive characterization of this important class of nuclear fuel materials.

In situ identification of high-performance thin-layer chromatography spots by fourier transform surface-enhanced Raman scattering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koglin, Eckhardt; Kramer, Hella; Sawatski, Juergen; Lehner, Carolin; Hellman, Janice L.

1994-01-01

FT-SERS has been used to identify samples supported on high-performance thin-layer chromatography plates. The TLC plates were sprayed with colloidal silver solutions which resulted in enhancement of the FT-Raman scattering of these biologically and environmentally important compounds.

A photoactive bimetallic framework for direct aminoformylation of nitroarenes

EPA Science Inventory

A bimetallic catalyst, AgPd@g-C3N4, was synthesized by immobilizing silver and palladium nanoparticles over the surface of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and its utility was demonstrated for the concerted aminoformylation of aromatic nitro compounds under visible light conditi...

Green synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity of silver nanoparticles using Cassia auriculata flower extract separated fraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muthu, Karuppiah; Priya, Sethuraman

2017-05-01

Cassia auriculata L., the flower aqueous extract was fractionated by separating funnel using n-hexane (A1), chloroform (A2), ethyl acetate (A3) and triple distilled water (A4). The A4 fraction was concentrated and determined the presence of preliminary phytochemicals such as tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, carbohydrates and polyphenolic compounds. These phytochemical compounds acted as reducing as well as a stabilizing agent in the green synthesis of Ag NPs from aqueous silver ions. Initially, the colour change and UV-vis absorbance surface Plasmon resonance strong, wide band located at 435 nm has confirmed the synthesis of Ag NPs. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern of Ag NPs shows a face-centered cubic crystal structure. The observed values were calculated by Debye-Scherrer equation to theoretical confirms the particle size of 18 nm. The surface morphology of Ag NPs was viewed by HRTEM, the particles are spherical and triangle shapes with sizes from 10 to 35 nm. Further, the Ag NPs was effective catalytic activity in the reduction of highly environmental polluted organic compounds of 4-nitrophenol and methyl orange. The green synthesis of Ag NPs seems to eco-friendly, cost-effective, conventional one spot synthesis and greater performance of catalytic degradation of environmentally polluted organic dyes.

Development of a surface-enhanced Raman technique for biomarker studies on Mars.

PubMed

Dunn, Darrell S; Sridhar, Narasi; Miller, Michael A; Price, Kendra T; Pabalan, Roberto; Abrajano, Teofilo A

2007-01-01

Raman spectroscopy has been identified as a potentially useful tool to collect evidence of past or present life on extraterrestrial bodies. However, it is limited by its inherently low signal strength. In this investigation, laboratory tests were conducted using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in an "inverted" mode to detect the presence of organic compounds that may be similar to possible biomarkers present on Mars. SERS was used to overcome the inherently low signal intensity of Raman spectroscopy and was an effective method for detecting small concentrations of organic compounds on a number of surfaces. For small organic molecules, dissolution of the molecule to be analyzed in a suitable solvent and depositing it on a prepared SERS substrate for analysis is possible. However, for larger molecules, an "inverted" SERS (iSERS) technique was shown to be effective. In iSERS, nanoparticles of silver or gold were deposited on the mineral substrate/organic compound to be analyzed. Benzotriazole, benzoic acid, and phthalic acid were used as test organic analogs and the iSERS technique was able to detect femtomole levels of the analytes. The interference from various mineral substrates was also examined. Different methods of depositing silver particles were evaluated, including ion beam-assisted vapor deposition and deposition from aqueous colloidal suspensions.

TOPO-capped silver selenide nanoparticles and their incorporation into polymer nanofibers using electrospinning technique

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

More, D.S.; Moloto, M.J., E-mail: makwenam@vut.ac.za; Moloto, N.

Highlights: • Ag{sub 2}Se nanoparticles produced spherical particles with sizes 12 nm (180 °C) and 27 nm (200 °C). • Higher temperature produced increased particle size (∼75 nm) and changed in shape. • Ag{sub 2}Se nanoparticles (0.2–0.6%) added into PVP (35–45%) to yield reduced fiber beading. • Polymer nanofibers electrospun at 11–20 kV produced fiber diameters of 425–461 nm. • Optical properties in the fibers were observed due to the Ag{sub 2}Se nanoparticles loaded. - Abstract: Electrospinning is the most common technique for fabricating polymer fibers as well as nanoparticles embedded polymer fibers. Silver selenide nanoparticles were synthesized using tri-n-octylphosphinemore » (TOP) as solvent and tri-n-octylphosphine oxide (TOPO) as capping environment. Silver selenide was prepared by reacting silver nitrate and selenium with tri-n-octylphosphine (TOP) to form TOP–Ag and TOP–Se solutions. Both absorption and emission spectra signify the formation of nanoparticles as well as the TEM which revealed spherical particles with an average particle size of 22 nm. The polymer, PVP used was prepared at concentrations ranging from (35 to 45 wt%) and the TOPO-capped silver selenide nanoparticles (0.2 and 0.6 wt%) were incorporated into them and electrospun by varying the voltage from 11 to 20 kV. The SEM images of the Ag{sub 2}Se/PVP composite fibers revealed the fibers of diameters with average values of 425 and 461 nm. The X-ray diffraction results show peaks which were identified due to α-Ag{sub 2}Se body centered cubic compound. The sharp peak observed for all the samples at 2θ = 44.5 suggest the presence of Ag in the face centered cubic which can be attributed to higher concentration of silver nitrate used with molar ratio of selenium to silver and the abundance of silver in the silver selenide crystal. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure of the PVP/Ag{sub 2}Se composite fibers.« less

Uranium Sequestration During Biostimulated Reduction and In Response to the Return of Oxic Conditions In Shallow Aquifers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fuller, Christopher C.; Johnson, Kelly J.; Akstin, Katherine; Singer, David M.; Yabusaki, Steven B.; Fang, Yilin; Fuhrmann, M.

2015-01-01

A proposed approach for groundwater remediation of uranium contamination is to generate reducing conditions by stimulating the growth of microbial populations through injection of electron donor compounds into the subsurface. Sufficiently reducing conditions will result in reduction of soluble hexavalent uranium, U(VI), and precipitation of the less soluble +4 oxidation state uranium, U(IV). This process is termed biostimulated reduction. A key issue in the remediation of uranium (U) contamination in aquifers by biostimulated reduction is the long term stability of the sequestered uranium. Three flow-through column experiments using aquifer sediment were used to evaluate the remobilization of bioreduced U sequestered under conditions in which biostimulation extended well into sulfate reduction to enhance precipitation of reduced sulfur phases such as iron sulfides. One column received added ferrous iron, Fe(II), increasing production of iron sulfides, to test their effect on remobilization of the sequestered uranium, either by serving as a redox buffer by competing for dissolved oxygen, or by armoring the reduced uranium. During biostimulation of the ambient microbial population with acetate, dissolved uranium was lowered by a factor of 2.5 or more with continued removal for over 110 days of biostimulation, well after the onset of sulfate reduction at ~30 days. Sequestered uranium was essentially all U(IV) resulting from the formation of nano-particulate uraninite that coated sediment grains to a thickness of a few 10’s of microns, sometimes in association with S and Fe. A multicomponent biogeochemical reactive transport model simulation of column effluents during biostimulation was generally able to describe the acetate oxidation, iron, sulfate, and uranium reduction for all three columns using parameters derived from simulations of field scale biostimulation experiments. Columns were eluted with artificial groundwater at equilibrium with atmospheric oxygen to simulate the upper limit of dissolved oxygen in recharge water. Overall about 9% of total uranium removed from solution during biostimulation was remobilized. Release of U during oxic elution was a continuous process over 140 days with dissolved uranium concentrations about 0.2 and 0.8 aM for columns with and without ferrous iron addition, respectively. Uranium remaining on the sediment was in the reduced form. The prolonged period of biostimulation and concomitant sulfate reduction appears to limit the rate of U(IV) oxidative remobilization in contrast to a large release observed for columns in previous studies that did not undergo sulfate reduction. Although continued sulfate reduction may cause decreased permeability from precipitation of iron sulfide, the greater apparent stability of the sequestered U(IV) provided by the sustained biostimulation should be considered in design of field scale remediation efforts. Remobilization of uranium following biostimulated reduction should be tested further at the field scale.

Modulation of population density and size of silver nanoparticles embedded in bacterial cellulose via ammonia exposure: visual detection of volatile compounds in a piece of plasmonic nanopaper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heli, B.; Morales-Narváez, E.; Golmohammadi, H.; Ajji, A.; Merkoçi, A.

2016-04-01

The localized surface plasmon resonance exhibited by noble metal nanoparticles can be sensitively tuned by varying their size and interparticle distances. We report that corrosive vapour (ammonia) exposure dramatically reduces the population density of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) embedded within bacterial cellulose, leading to a larger distance between the remaining nanoparticles and a decrease in the UV-Vis absorbance associated with the AgNP plasmonic properties. We also found that the size distribution of AgNPs embedded in bacterial cellulose undergoes a reduction in the presence of volatile compounds released during food spoilage, modulating the studied nanoplasmonic properties. In fact, such a plasmonic nanopaper exhibits a change in colour from amber to light amber upon the explored corrosive vapour exposure and from amber to a grey or taupe colour upon fish or meat spoilage exposure. These phenomena are proposed as a simple visual detection of volatile compounds in a flexible, transparent, permeable and stable single-use nanoplasmonic membrane, which opens the way to innovative approaches and capabilities in gas sensing and smart packaging.The localized surface plasmon resonance exhibited by noble metal nanoparticles can be sensitively tuned by varying their size and interparticle distances. We report that corrosive vapour (ammonia) exposure dramatically reduces the population density of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) embedded within bacterial cellulose, leading to a larger distance between the remaining nanoparticles and a decrease in the UV-Vis absorbance associated with the AgNP plasmonic properties. We also found that the size distribution of AgNPs embedded in bacterial cellulose undergoes a reduction in the presence of volatile compounds released during food spoilage, modulating the studied nanoplasmonic properties. In fact, such a plasmonic nanopaper exhibits a change in colour from amber to light amber upon the explored corrosive vapour exposure and from amber to a grey or taupe colour upon fish or meat spoilage exposure. These phenomena are proposed as a simple visual detection of volatile compounds in a flexible, transparent, permeable and stable single-use nanoplasmonic membrane, which opens the way to innovative approaches and capabilities in gas sensing and smart packaging. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Details on the estimations of evaporation rates and limits of detection, ESI figures and author contributions. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr00537c

Phytofabrication of silver nanoparticles using aqueous leaf extract of Xanthium strumerium L. and their bactericidal efficacy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mittal, Jitendra; Jain, Rohit; Mohan Sharma, Madan

2017-06-01

An efficient protocol for synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Xanthium strumerium L. leaves was developed. This study revealed that bioactive compounds present in the extract, function as stabilizing and capping agent for AgNPs. SEM, EDX, TEM and XRD studies confirm the structure, crystalline nature and surface morphology of the AgNPs. Size of synthesized AgNPs was in the range of 20-50 nm having spherical morphology. The AgNPs were found to be toxic against pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. The use of AgNPs as antibacterial agent is advantageous over other methods for control of pathogenic microorganisms.

Zeta-potential and particle size studies of silver sulphide nanoparticles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sharma, Vikash, E-mail: vikash@csr.res.in; Tarachand,; Ganesan, V.

Silver sulfide (Ag{sub 2}S) nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared successfully for the first time using diethylene glycol (DEG) as a surfactant. X-ray diffraction (XRD) data revealed single phase nature of the compound and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) confirmed its nominal composition. Their sizes were 43 nm from XRD, 50 nm from atomic force microscopy (AFM) and 19 nm & 213 nm from dynamic light scattering (DLS); their differences have been discussed. Autotitration study of zeta potential of these NPs in deionized water by DLS at different pH values confirmed an isoelectric point at pH = 5.14 and their very unstable nature in deionized water.

Solvothermal syntheses and characterization of three new silver(I)/copper(I)-thioarsenates based on As{sup 2+}/As{sup 3+} ions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yao, Hua-Gang, E-mail: hgyao@gdpu.edu.cn; Guangdong Cosmetics Engineering & Technology Research Center, Zhongshan 528458; Tang, Cheng-Fei

2017-02-15

Three new silver(I)/copper(I)-thioarsenates KAgAs{sup II}S{sub 2} (1), RbCu{sub 2}As{sup III}S{sub 3} (2) and RbCu{sub 4}As{sup III}S{sub 4} (3) have been solvothermally synthesized and structurally characterized. 1 exhibits a two-dimensional anionic network built up by As−As bond connecting the left- and right-handed helical [AgS{sub 2}]{sup 4−} chains, and represents the first examples of thioarsenates(II). The structure of 2 consists of two kinds of helical [Cu{sub 2}S{sub 3}]{sup 4–} chains linked by the arsenic atoms to form double layers with rubidium ions between the layers. Compound 3 is built up of infinite [Cu{sub 2}S{sub 2}]{sup 2–} chain and layered [Cu{sub 6}As{sub 2}S{submore » 6}] linked to form a three-dimensional anionic framework, [Cu{sub 4}AsS{sub 4}]{sup –}, and containing channels in which the rubidium cations reside. The optical properties of 1–3 have been investigated by UV–vis spectroscopy. - Graphical abstract: Three new silver(I)/copper(I)-thioarsenates have been solvothermally synthesized and structurally characterized. 1 represents the first examples of thioarsenates(II) while compounds 2 and 3 possess noncondensed pyramidal AsS{sub 3}{sup 3–} unit.« less

UV laser deposition of metal films by photogenerated free radicals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Montgomery, R. K.; Mantei, T. D.

1986-01-01

A novel photochemical method for liquid-phase deposition of metal films is described. In the liquid phase deposition scheme, a metal containing compound and a metal-metal bonded carbonyl complex are dissolved together in a polar solvent and the mixture is irradiated using a UV laser. The optical arrangement consists of a HeCd laser which provides 7 mW of power at a wavelength of 325 nm in the TEM(OO) mode. The beam is attenuated and may be expanded to a diameter of 5-20 mm. Experiments with photochemical deposition of silver films onto glass and quartz substrates are described in detail. Mass spectrometric analysis of deposited silver films indicated a deposition rate of about 1 A/s at incident power levels of 0.01 W/sq cm. UV laser-induced copper and palladium films have also been obtained. A black and white photograph showing the silver Van Der Pauw pattern of a solution-deposited film is provided.

Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles by Gelidiella acerosa Extract and their Antifungal Effects

PubMed Central

Vivek, Marimuthu; Kumar, Palanisamy Senthil; Steffi, Sesurajan; Sudha, Sellappa

2011-01-01

The synthesis, characterization and application of biologically synthesized nanomaterials are an important aspect in nanotechnology. The present study deals with the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) using the aqueous extract of red seaweed Gelidiella acerosa as the reducing agent to study the antifungal activity. The formation of Ag-NPs was confirmed by UV-Visible Spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) pattern, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The synthesized Ag-NPs was predominately spherical in shape and polydispersed. Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FT-IR) spectroscopy analysis showed that the synthesized nano-Ag was capped with bimolecular compounds which are responsible for reduction of silver ions. The antifungal effects of these nanoparticles were studied against Humicola insolens (MTCC 4520), Fusarium dimerum (MTCC 6583), Mucor indicus (MTCC 3318) and Trichoderma reesei (MTCC 3929). The present study indicates that Ag-NPs have considerable antifungal activity in comparison with standard antifungal drug, and hence further investigation for clinical applications is necessary. PMID:23408653

Silver and palladium alloy nanoparticle catalysts: reductive coupling of nitrobenzene through light irradiation.

PubMed

Peiris, Sunari; Sarina, Sarina; Han, Chenhui; Xiao, Qi; Zhu, Huai-Yong

2017-08-15

Silver-palladium (Ag-Pd) alloy nanoparticles strongly absorb visible light and exhibit significantly higher photocatalytic activity compared to both pure palladium (Pd) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles. Photocatalysts of Ag-Pd alloy nanoparticles on ZrO 2 and Al 2 O 3 supports are developed to catalyze the nitroaromatic coupling to the corresponding azo compounds under visible light irradiation. Ag-Pd alloy NP/ZrO 2 exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity for nitrobenzene coupling to azobenzene (yield of ∼80% in 3 hours). The photocatalytic efficiency could be optimized by altering the Ag : Pd ratio of the alloy nanoparticles, irradiation light intensity, temperature and wavelength. The rate of the reaction depends on the population and energy of the excited electrons, which can be improved by increasing the light intensity or by using a shorter wavelength. The knowledge developed in this study may inspire further studies on Ag alloy photocatalysts and organic syntheses using Ag-Pd nanoparticle catalysts driven under visible light Irradiation.

Process standardization and characterization of Rajata Sindura.

PubMed

Gokarn, Rohit A; Gokarn, Supriya R; Hiremath, Shobha G

2014-01-01

Rajata Sindura (RS) is a mercurial preparation, known for its properties like Rasayana (rejuvinating), Balya (strengthening), Vrushya (aphrodisiac), Medhya (increasing intellect) and can cure various diseases when used with appropriate adjuvant. It is prepared with Hingulottha Parada (purified mercury), Shuddha Gandhaka (purified sulfur) and Shuddha Rajata (purified silver) in a proportion of 1:1:4. Process standardization and characterization of RS are not reported until date. Pharmaceutical standardization and characterization of Rajata Sindura. Purified mercury and silver were triturated to form amalgam, followed by the addition of purified sulfur to prepare Kajjali and lavigated with Vatankura (leaf buds of Ficus benghalensis Linn.) swarasa (juice). This Kajjali was processed by Kupipakwa method. RS was prepared in 33 h with 20.25% yield. Scanning electron microscope coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis has shown Mercury 86.21%, sulfur 13.27% as major elements; iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium and silver were other detected minor elements. X-ray diffraction report revealed the chemical nature of RS as HgS compound, having cubic crystal structure.

Solubility testing of actinides on breathing-zone and area air samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Metzger, Robert Lawrence

The solubility of inhaled radionuclides in the human lung is an important characteristic of the compounds needed to perform internal dosimetry assessments for exposed workers. A solubility testing method for uranium and several common actinides has been developed with sufficient sensitivity to allow profiles to be determined from routine breathing zone and area air samples in the workplace. Air samples are covered with a clean filter to form a filter-sample-filter sandwich which is immersed in an extracellular lung serum simulant solution. The sample is moved to a fresh beaker of the lung fluid simulant each day for one week, and then weekly until the end of the 28 day test period. The soak solutions are wet ashed with nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide to destroy the organic components of the lung simulant solution prior to extraction of the nuclides of interest directly into an extractive scintillator for subsequent counting on a Photon-Electron Rejecting Alpha Liquid Scintillation (PERALSsp°ler ) spectrometer. Solvent extraction methods utilizing the extractive scintillators have been developed for the isotopes of uranium, plutonium, and curium. The procedures normally produce an isotopic recovery greater than 95% and have been used to develop solubility profiles from air samples with 40 pCi or less of Usb3Osb8. This makes it possible to characterize solubility profiles in every section of operating facilities where airborne nuclides are found using common breathing zone air samples. The new method was evaluated by analyzing uranium compounds from two uranium mills whose product had been previously analyzed by in vitro solubility testing in the laboratory and in vivo solubility testing in rodents. The new technique compared well with the in vivo rodent solubility profiles. The method was then used to evaluate the solubility profiles in all process sections of an operating in situ uranium plant using breathing zone and area air samples collected during routine plant operations. The solubility profiles developed from this work showed excellent agreement with the results of the worker urine bioassay program at the plant and identified a significant error in existing internal dose assessments at this facility.

Chelation of UO(2)(2+) by vitamin B6 complex derivatives: synthesis and characterization of [UO2(beta-pyracinide)2(H2O)] and [UO2(Pyr2en)DMSO]Cl2{Pyr2en=N,N'-ethylenebis(pyridoxylideneiminato)}. A useful modeling of assimilation of uranium by living beings.

PubMed

Back, Davi Fernando; de Oliveira, Gelson Manzoni; Lang, Ernesto Schulz

2006-10-01

The vitamin B(6) derivatives 4-pyridoxic acid (anionic) and the Schiff base N,N'-ethylenebis(pyridoxylideneiminato) react with UO(2)(NO(3))(2) * 6H(2)O to give [UO(2)(beta-pyracinide)(2)(H(2)O)] (beta-pyracin=4-pyridoxic acid) and [UO(2)(Pyr(2)en)DMSO]Cl(2)(Pyr(2)en=N,N'-ethylenebis(pyridoxylideneiminato); DMSO=dimethyl sulfoxide). In both compounds the two uranyl oxo ligands set the axis of distorted pentagonal bipyramides. The ability of vitamin B(6) derivatives to react with UO(2)(2+) allowing the chelation of one uranium atom represents a very specific model of assimilation of uranium by living beings. It could also explain the serious damages caused by heavy or radioactive metals like uranium since their complexation "in vivo" by enzymatic systems like pyridoxal phosphate-containing enzymes would lead to a modification of the prosthetic groups of the metalloenzymes with loss of their catalytic activities.

Critical Amounts of Uranium Compounds

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Konopinski, E.; Metropolis, N.; Teller, E.; Woods, L.

1943-03-19

The method of calculation of critical masses of oxides and fluorides of U is given. The geometry assumed is a sphere and the calculations hold only in the absence of hydrogenous materials. Calculations are carried out which are applicable to materials containing form 20 to 100% U{sup 235}. (T.R.H.)

Highly Sensitive Detection of UV Radiation Using a Uranium Coordination Polymer.

PubMed

Liu, Wei; Dai, Xing; Xie, Jian; Silver, Mark A; Zhang, Duo; Wang, Yanlong; Cai, Yawen; Diwu, Juan; Wang, Jian; Zhou, Ruhong; Chai, Zhifang; Wang, Shuao

2018-02-07

The accurate detection of UV radiation is required in a wide range of chemical industries and environmental or biological related applications. Conventional methods taking advantage of semiconductor photodetectors suffer from several drawbacks such as sophisticated synthesis and manufacturing procedure, not being able to measure the accumulated UV dosage as well as high defect density in the material. Searching for new strategies or materials serving as precise UV dosage sensor with extremely low detection limit is still highly desirable. In this work, a radiation resistant uranium coordination polymer [UO 2 (L)(DMF)] (L = 5-nitroisophthalic acid, DMF = N,N-dimethylformamide, denoted as compound 1) was successfully synthesized through mild solvothermal method and investigated as a unique UV probe with the detection limit of 2.4 × 10 -7 J. On the basis of the UV dosage dependent luminescence spectra, EPR analysis, single crystal structure investigation, and the DFT calculation, the UV-induced radical quenching mechanism was confirmed. Importantly, the generated radicals are of significant stability which offers the opportunity for measuring the accumulated UV radiation dosage. Furthermore, the powder material of compound 1 was further upgraded into membrane material without loss in luminescence intensity to investigate the real application potentials. To the best of our knowledge, compound 1 represents the most sensitive coordination polymer based UV dosage probe reported to date.

Groundwater quality in the Genesee River Basin, New York, 2010

USGS Publications Warehouse

Reddy, James E.

2012-01-01

Water samples collected from eight production wells and eight private residential wells in the Genesee River Basin from September through December 2010 were analyzed to characterize the groundwater quality in the basin. Eight of the wells were completed in sand and gravel aquifers, and eight were finished in bedrock aquifers. Three of the 16 wells were sampled in the first Genesee River Basin study during 2005-2006. Water samples from the 2010 study were analyzed for 147 physiochemical properties and constituents that included major ions, nutrients, trace elements, radionuclides, pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and indicator bacteria. Results of the water-quality analyses are presented in tabular form for individual wells, and summary statistics for specific constituents are presented by aquifer type. The results are compared with Federal and New York State drinking-water standards, which typically are identical. The results indicate that groundwater generally is of acceptable quality, although concentrations of the following constituents exceeded current or proposed Federal or New York State drinking-water standards at each of the 16 wells sampled: color (one sample), sodium (three samples), sulfate (three samples), total dissolved solids (four samples), aluminum (one sample), arsenic (two samples), copper (one sample), iron (nine samples), manganese (eight samples), radon-222 (nine samples), and total coliform bacteria (six samples). Existing drinking-water standards for pH, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, nitrite, antimony, barium, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, selenium, silver, thallium, zinc, gross alpha radioactivity, uranium, fecal coliform, Escherichia coli, and heterotrophic bacteria were not exceeded in any of the samples collected. None of the pesticides and VOCs analyzed exceeded existing drinking-water standards.

Groundwater quality in western New York, 2011

USGS Publications Warehouse

Reddy, James E.

2013-01-01

Water samples collected from 16 production wells and 15 private residential wells in western New York from July through November 2011 were analyzed to characterize the groundwater quality. Fifteen of the wells were finished in sand and gravel aquifers, and 16 were finished in bedrock aquifers. Six of the 31 wells were sampled in a previous western New York study, which was conducted in 2006. Water samples from the 2011 study were analyzed for 147 physiochemical properties and constituents that included major ions, nutrients, trace elements, radionuclides, pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and indicator bacteria. Results of the water-quality analyses are presented in tabular form for individual wells, and summary statistics for specific constituents are presented by aquifer type. The results are compared with Federal and New York State drinking-water standards, which typically are identical. The results indicate that groundwater generally is of acceptable quality, although at 30 of the 31 wells sampled, at least one of the following constituents was detected at a concentration that exceeded current or proposed Federal or New York State drinking-water standards: pH (two samples), sodium (eight samples), sulfate (three samples), total dissolved solids (nine samples), aluminum (two samples), arsenic (one sample), iron (ten samples), manganese (twelve samples), radon-222 (sixteen samples), benzene (one sample), and total coliform bacteria (nine samples). Existing drinking-water standards for color, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, nitrite, antimony, barium, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, selenium, silver, thallium, zinc, gross alpha radioactivity, uranium, fecal coliform, Escherichia coli, and heterotrophic bacteria were not exceeded in any of the samples collected. None of the pesticides analyzed exceeded existing drinking-water standards.

Sequestration of radioactive iodine in silver-palladium phases in commercial spent nuclear fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buck, Edgar C.; Mausolf, Edward J.; McNamara, Bruce K.; Soderquist, Chuck Z.; Schwantes, Jon M.

2016-12-01

Radioactive iodine is the Achilles' heel in the design for the safe geological disposal of spent uranium oxide (UO2) nuclear fuel. Furthermore, iodine's high volatility and aqueous solubility were mainly responsible for the high early doses released during the accident at Fukushima Daiichi in 2011. Studies Kienzler et al., however, have indicated that the instant release fraction (IRF) of radioiodine (131/129I) does not correlate directly with increasing fuel burn-up. In fact, there is a peak in the release of iodine at around 50-60 MW d/kgU, and with increasing burn-up, the IRF of 131/129I decreases. The reasons for this decrease have not fully been understood. We have performed microscopic analysis of chemically processed high burn-up UO2 fuel (80 MW d/kgU) and have found recalcitrant nano-particles containing, Pd, Ag, I, and Br, possibly consistent with a high pressure phase of silver iodide in the undissolved residue. It is likely that increased levels of Ag and Pd from 239Pu fission in high burnup fuels leads to the formation of these metal halides. The occurrence of these phases in UO2 nuclear fuels may reduce the impact of long-lived 129I on the repository performance assessment calculations.

Physicochemical characterization of silver nanoparticles synthesize using Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuponiyi, Abiola; Kassama, Lamin; Kukhtareva, Tatiana

2014-08-01

Production of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using different biological methods is gaining recognition due to their multiple applications. Although, several physical and chemical methods have been used for the synthesis and stabilizing of AgNPs, yet, a green chemistry method is preferable because it is cost effective and environmentally friendly. The synthesis was done using Aloe Vera (AV) extract because it has chemical compounds such as "Antrokinon" that are known for its antibacterial, antivirus and anticancer properties. We hypothesize that AV extract can produce a stable nanoparticles within the 100 nm range and be biologically active. The biological compounds were extracted from AV skin with water and ethanol which was used as the reduction agent for the synthesis of nanoparticles. The biological extract and AgNO3 were blended and heated to synthesize AgNPs. The reaction process was monitored using UV-Visible spectroscopy. Fourier Transfer Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used for the characterization of biological compounds and their substituent groups before and after the reaction process. Dynamic Light scattering (DLS) method was used to characterize particle size of AgNPs and their biomolecular stability. Results showed that biological compounds such as aliphatic amines, alkenes (=C-H), alkanes (C-H), alcohol (O-H) and unsaturated esters(C-O), which has an average particle size of 109 and 215.8 nm and polydispersity index of 0.451 and 0.375 for ethanol and water extract, respectively. According to TEM measurements the size of AgNPs are in the range 5-20 nm The results suggested that ethanol derived AgNPs contained higher yield of organic compounds, thus has better solubility power than water. Ag NPs can be used to control salmonella in poultry industry.

Lithium in 2012

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jaskula, B.W.

2013-01-01

In 2012, estimated world lithium consumption was about 28 kt (31,000 st) of lithium contained in minerals and compounds, an 8 percent increase from that of 2011. Estimated U.S. consumption was about 2 kt (2,200 st) of contained lithium, the same as that of 2011. The United States was thought to rank fourth in consumption of lithium and remained the leading importer of lithium carbonate and the leading producer of value-added lithium materials. One company, Rockwood Lithium Inc., produced lithium compounds from domestic brine resources near Silver Peak, NV.

Utilization of hydrotalcite modified with 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid for the treatment of silver-containing wastewater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yanti, I.; Winata, W. F.; Anugrahwati, M.

2018-04-01

Utilization of hydrotalcite modified with 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid as a medium for the treatment of silver-containing wastewater has been done by using adsorption method. The modified hydrotalcite was prepared by direct precipitation using Mg and Al metals precursor and an organic compound of 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid. The modified material was then used for the treatment of silver-containing wastewater through adsorption method together with the determination of adsorption capacity, kinetics study as well as the material characterization after the treatment process. It could be observed from the results that the adsorption of silver onto the modified hydrotalcite was in accordance with Langmuir adsorption model with the adsorption capacity (qmax) of 400 mg.g-1. Moreover, the adsorption kinetics of the treatment showed that the process followed the kinetics model of pseudo-second-order of Ho with the velocity constant (k) of 1.15x10-4g.mg-1.minute-1. The adsorption process exhibited an exergonic property with the adsorption energy of 28.10x103 J.mol-1. All of the adsorption processes were conducted in the condition of pHadsorption = 3. Meanwhile, results from the characterization using FTIR showed the functional groups of C=C, -OH and NO3 - on the modified hydrotalcite underwent some alteration after the adsorption process of Ag(I). Therefore it can be observed that the functional groups of COOH and OH had an important role in the adsorption of silver from wastewater.

Novel AgNWs-PAN/TPU membrane for point-of-use drinking water electrochemical disinfection.

PubMed

Tan, Xiaojun; Chen, Chao; Hu, Yongyou; Wen, Junjie; Qin, Yanzhe; Cheng, Jianhua; Chen, Yuancai

2018-10-01

The safety of drinking water remains a major challenge in developing countries and point-of-use (POU) drinking water treatment device plays an important role in decentralised drinking water safety. In this study, a novel material, i.e. a silver nanowires-polyacrylonitrile/thermoplastic polyurethane (AgNWs-PAN/TPU) composite membrane, was fabricated via electrospinning and vacuum filtration deposition. Morphological and structural characterisation showed that the PAN/TPU fibres had uniform diameters and enhanced mechanical properties. When added to these fibres, the AgNWs formed a highly conductive network with good physical stability and low silver ion leaching (<100 ppb). A POU device equipped with a AgNWs-PAN/TPU membrane displayed complete removal of 10 5  CFU/mL bacteria, which were inactivated by silver ions released from the AgNWs within 6 h. Furthermore, under a voltage of 1.5 V, the bacteria were completely inactivated within 20-25 min. Inactivation efficiency in 5 mM NaCl solution was higher than those in Na 2 SO 4 and NaNO 3 solutions. We concluded that a strong electric field was formed at the AgNW tips. Additionally, silver ions and chlorine compounds worked synergistically in the disinfection process. This study provides a scientific basis for research and development of silver nanocomposite membranes, with high mechanical strength and high conductivity, for POU drinking water disinfection. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Geology of uranium in the Chadron area, Nebraska and South Dakota

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dunham, Robert Jacob

1961-01-01

The Chadron area covers 375 square miles about 25 miles southeast of the Black Hills. Recurrent mild tectonic activity and erosion on the Chadron arch, a compound anticlinal uplift of regional extent, exposed 1900 feet of Upper Cretaceous rocks, mostly marine shale containing pyrite and organic matter, and 600 feet of Oligocene and Miocene rocks, mostly terrestrial fine-grained sediment containing volcanic ash. Each Cretaceous formation truncated by the sub-Oligocene unconformity is stained yellow and red, leached, kaolinized, and otherwise altered to depths as great as 55 feet. The composition and profile of the altered material indicate lateritic soil; indirect evidence indicates Eocene(?) age. In a belt through the central part of the area, the Brule formation of Oligocene age is a sequence of bedded gypsum, clay, dolomite, and limestone more than 300 feet thick. Uranium in Cretaceous shale in 58 samples averages 0.002 percent, ten times the average for the earths crust. Association with pyrite and organic matter indicates low valency. The uranium probably is syngenetic or nearly so. Uranium in Eocene(?) soil in 43 samples averages 0.054 percent, ranging up to 1.12 percent. The upper part of the soil is depleted in uranium; enriched masses in the basal part of the soil consist of remnants of bedrock shale and are restricted to the highest reaches of the ancient oxidation-reduction interface. The uranium is probably in the from of a low-valent mineral, perhaps uraninite. Modern weathering of Cretaceous shale is capable of releasing as much as 0.780 ppm uranium to water. Eocene(?) weathering probably caused enrichment of the ancient soil through 1) leaching of Cretaceous shale, 2) downward migration of uranyl complex ions, and 3) reduction of hydrogen sulfide at the water table. Uranium minerals occur in the basal 25 feet of the gypsum facies of the Brule formation at the two localities where the gypsum is carbonaceous; 16 samples average 0.066 percent uranium and range up to 0.43 percent. Elsewhere uranium in dolomite and limestone in the basal 25 feet of the gypsum facies in 10 samples averages 0.007 percent, ranging up to 0.12 percent. Localization of the uranium at the base of the gypsum facies suggests downward moving waters; indirect evidence that the water from which the gypsum was deposited was highly alkaline suggests that the uranium was leached from volcanic ash in Oligocene time.

Antibacterial Activity of Polyaniline Coated Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Piper Betle Leaves Extract.

PubMed

Mamun Or Rashida, Md; Shafiul Islam, Md; Azizul Haque, Md; Arifur Rahman, Md; Tanvir Hossain, Md; Abdul Hamid, Md

2016-01-01

Plants or natural resources have been found to be a good alternative method for nanoparticles synthesis. In this study, polyaniline coated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from Piper betle leaves extract were investigated for their antibacterial activity. Silver nanoparticles were prepared from the reduction of silver nitrate and NaBH4 was used as reducing agent. Silver nanoparticles and extracts were mixed thoroughly and then coated by polyaniline. Prepared nanoparticles were characterized by Visual inspection, Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV), Fourier transform infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) techniques. Antibacterial activities of the synthesized silver nanoparticles were tested against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Salmonella typhi ATCC 14028, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853. UV-Vis spectrum of reaction mixture showed strong absorption peak with centering at 400 nm. The FT-IR results imply that Ag-NPs were successfully synthesized and capped with bio-compounds present in P. betle. TEM image showed that Ag-NPs formed were well dispersed with a spherical structures and particle size ranging from 10 to 30 nm. The result revealed that Ag-Extract NPs showed 32.78±0.64 mm zone of inhibition against S. aureus, whereas norfloxacin (positive control) showed maximum 32.15±0.40 mm zone of inhibition for S. aureus. Again, maximum zone of inhibition 29.55±0.45 mm was found for S. typhi, 27.12±0.38 mm for E. coli and 21.95±0.45 mm for P. aeruginosa. The results obtained by this study can't be directly extrapolated to human; so further studies should be undertaken to established the strong antimicrobial activity of Ag-Extract NPs for drug development program.

Antibacterial Activity of Polyaniline Coated Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Piper Betle Leaves Extract

PubMed Central

Mamun Or Rashida, Md.; Shafiul Islam, Md.; Azizul Haque, Md.; Arifur Rahman, Md.; Tanvir Hossain, Md.; Abdul Hamid, Md.

2016-01-01

Plants or natural resources have been found to be a good alternative method for nanoparticles synthesis. In this study, polyaniline coated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from Piper betle leaves extract were investigated for their antibacterial activity. Silver nanoparticles were prepared from the reduction of silver nitrate and NaBH4 was used as reducing agent. Silver nanoparticles and extracts were mixed thoroughly and then coated by polyaniline. Prepared nanoparticles were characterized by Visual inspection, Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV), Fourier transform infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) techniques. Antibacterial activities of the synthesized silver nanoparticles were tested against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Salmonella typhi ATCC 14028, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853. UV–Vis spectrum of reaction mixture showed strong absorption peak with centering at 400 nm. The FT-IR results imply that Ag-NPs were successfully synthesized and capped with bio-compounds present in P. betle. TEM image showed that Ag-NPs formed were well dispersed with a spherical structures and particle size ranging from 10 to 30 nm. The result revealed that Ag-Extract NPs showed 32.78±0.64 mm zone of inhibition against S. aureus, whereas norfloxacin (positive control) showed maximum 32.15±0.40 mm zone of inhibition for S. aureus. Again, maximum zone of inhibition 29.55±0.45 mm was found for S. typhi, 27.12±0.38 mm for E. coli and 21.95±0.45 mm for P. aeruginosa. The results obtained by this study can’t be directly extrapolated to human; so further studies should be undertaken to established the strong antimicrobial activity of Ag-Extract NPs for drug development program. PMID:27642330

Automatic environmental disinfection with hydrogen peroxide and silver ions versus manual environmental disinfection with sodium hypochlorite: a multicentre randomized before-and-after trial.

PubMed

Mosci, D; Marmo, G W; Sciolino, L; Zaccaro, C; Antonellini, R; Accogli, L; Lazzarotto, T; Mongardi, M; Landini, M P

2017-10-01

New technologies for automated disinfection have been developed, including the use of hydrogen peroxide atomized by specific equipment, with associated silver compounds. To compare the effectiveness of an automated disinfection system with hydrogen peroxide <8% and silver ion versus a manual method with 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution when evaluating the reduction of microbial mesophilic contamination and Clostridium difficile presence; and to evaluate the time required for both of these processes. This was a randomized multicentre trial performed in different hospital wards that had been occupied previously by patients with Clostridium difficile infection. When patients were discharged their rooms were randomized to one of two decontamination arms. The surfaces where sampled using swabs, before and after disinfection. Swab samples were cultured for quantitative detection of microbial mesophilic contamination and qualitative detection of C. difficile. Before disinfection, 13% of surfaces decontaminated with hydrogen peroxide and silver ions and 20% of surfaces decontaminated with sodium hypochlorite showed presence of C. difficile spores. After disinfection, the samples containing C. difficile were 0% (P < 0.001) in the group decontaminated with hydrogen peroxide and silver ions, and were 3% (P < 0.001) in the group decontaminated with sodium hypochlorite. This difference was not statistically significant; nor was the difference in the reduction of the microbial mesophilic contamination. The differences between the groups were not statistically significant; however, the disinfection with hydrogen peroxide and silver ions is preferable due to less dependence on operators. Copyright © 2017 The Healthcare Infection Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cloning of cytochrome P450 3A137 complementary DNA in silver carp and expression induction by ionic liquid.

PubMed

Li, Xiaoyu; Ma, Junguo; Lei, Wenlong; Li, Jie; Zhang, Yaning; Li, Yuanlong

2013-08-01

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, especially CYP 3A, are responsible for metabolizing of various kinds of endogenous and exogenous compounds in animals. In the present study, a full-length sequence of CYP 3A137 cDNA in silver carp was cloned and sequenced, and then a phylogenetic tree of CYP 3A was structured. Additionally, the acute toxicity of the ionic liquid 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide ([C8mim]Br) on silver carp and transcription and microsome enzyme activity of CYP 3A137 in the liver of silver fish after rifampicin or [C8mim]Br exposure were also determined in this study. The results show that the full length of CYP 3A137 cDNA is 1810 base pair (bp) long and contains an open reading frame of 1539bp encoding a protein of 513 amino acids. Sequence analysis reveals that CYP 3A137 is highly conserved in fish. Moreover, the results of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction reveal that CYP 3A137 in silver carp is constitutively expressed in all tissues examined and the sequence of expression rate is liver>intestine>kidney>spleen>brain>heart>muscle. Finally, the results of acute toxicity tests indicate that both rifampicin and [C8mim]Br significantly up-regulate the expression of CYP 3A137 at mRNA level and increase CYP 3A137 enzyme activity in fish liver, suggesting that CYP 3A137 be involved in metabolism of [C8mim]Br in silver carp. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Investigation of mine and industry dumps in the FRG in relation to a possible release of natural radioactive elements.

PubMed

Schmitz, J

1985-10-01

More than 350 dumps of mines and industries in two federal states of the FRG were recorded, measured radiometrically, evaluated, and some of them sampled. Most of the mine dumps belonged to old and smaller residues from lead/zinc and iron ore mining, while the largest depositions contain tailings of modern ore beneficiation or flyash disposal. All mine dumps from uranium exploration in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria were investigated. The highest doses, up to 100 mSv/a, were found on the piles of the uranium exploration. These depositions, which are supervised and licensed, are followed, in terms of surface dose, by the old uncontrolled mine dumps of silver/cobalt mining with doses up to 20 mSv/a. The numerous porphyry and granite quarries show doses between 1 and 2 mSv/a, as do flyash and slag dumps. The lowest doses were found on the dumps of the hydrothermal Pb/Zn and iron ore deposits, while the slag piles of iron ore processing showed higher thorium values. Assays for Ra-226 and Pb-210 of the materials deposited confirmed the radiometric results. Analyses of seepage waters and gallery waters showed only very few values exceeding the derived drinking water concentrations.

In situ ligand synthesis with the UO22+ cation under hydrothermal conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frisch, Mark; Cahill, Christopher L.

2007-09-01

A novel uranium (VI) coordination polymer, (UO 2) 2(C 2O 4)(C 5H 6NO 3) 2 ( 1), has been prepared under the hydrothermal reaction of uranium nitrate hexahydrate and L-pyroglutamic acid. Compound 1 (monoclinic, C2/ c, a=22.541(6) Å, b=5.7428(15) Å, c=15.815(4) Å, β=119.112(4)°, Z=4, R1=0.0237, w R2=0.0367) consists of uranium pentagonal bipyramids linked via L-pyroglutamate and oxalate anions to form an overall two-dimensional (2D) structure. With the absence of oxalic acid within the starting materials, the oxalate anions are hypothesized to form in situ whereby decarboxylation of L-pyroglutamic acid occurs followed by coupling of CO 2 to form the oxalate linkages as observed in the crystal structure. Addition of copper (II) to this system appears to promote oxalate formation in that synthetic moolooite (Cu(C 2O 4)· nH 2O; 0⩽ n⩽1) and a known uranyl oxalate [(UO 2) 2(C 2O 4)(OH) 2(H 2O) 2·H 2O], co-crystallize in significant quantity. Compound 1 exhibits the characteristic uranyl emission spectrum upon either direct uranyl excitation or ligand excitation, the latter of which shows an increase in relative intensity. This subsequent increase in the intensity indicates an energy transfer from the ligand to the uranyl cations thus illustrating an example of the antenna effect in the solid state.

Silver ions increase plasma membrane permeability through modulation of intracellular calcium levels in tobacco BY-2 cells.

PubMed

Klíma, Petr; Laňková, Martina; Vandenbussche, Filip; Van Der Straeten, Dominique; Petrášek, Jan

2018-05-01

Silver ions increase plasma membrane permeability for water and small organic compounds through their stimulatory effect on plasma membrane calcium channels, with subsequent modulation of intracellular calcium levels and ion homeostasis. The action of silver ions at the plant plasma membrane is largely connected with the inhibition of ethylene signalling thanks to the ability of silver ion to replace the copper cofactor in the ethylene receptor. A link coupling the action of silver ions and cellular auxin efflux has been suggested earlier by their possible direct interaction with auxin efflux carriers or by influencing plasma membrane permeability. Using tobacco BY-2 cells, we demonstrate here that besides a dramatic increase of efflux of synthetic auxins 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 1-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), treatment with AgNO 3 resulted in enhanced efflux of the cytokinin trans-zeatin (tZ) as well as the auxin structural analogues tryptophan (Trp) and benzoic acid (BA). The application of AgNO 3 was accompanied by gradual water loss and plasmolysis. The observed effects were dependent on the availability of extracellular calcium ions (Ca 2+ ) as shown by comparison of transport assays in Ca 2+ -rich and Ca 2+ -free buffers and upon treatment with inhibitors of plasma membrane Ca 2+ -permeable channels Al 3+ and ruthenium red, both abolishing the effect of AgNO 3 . Confocal microscopy of Ca 2+ -sensitive fluorescence indicator Fluo-4FF, acetoxymethyl (AM) ester suggested that the extracellular Ca 2+ availability is necessary to trigger the response to silver ions and that the intracellular Ca 2+ pool alone is not sufficient for this effect. Altogether, our data suggest that in plant cells the effects of silver ions originate from the primal modification of the internal calcium levels, possibly by their interaction with Ca 2+ -permeable channels at the plasma membrane.

Facile CO Cleavage by a Multimetallic CsU2 Nitride Complex.

PubMed

Falcone, Marta; Kefalidis, Christos E; Scopelliti, Rosario; Maron, Laurent; Mazzanti, Marinella

2016-09-26

Uranium nitrides are important materials with potential for application as fuels for nuclear power generation, and as highly active catalysts. Molecular nitride compounds could provide important insight into the nature of the uranium-nitride bond, but currently little is known about their reactivity. In this study, we found that a complex containing a nitride bridging two uranium centers and a cesium cation readily cleaved the C≡O bond (one of the strongest bonds in nature) under ambient conditions. The product formed has a [CsU2 (μ-CN)(μ-O)] core, thus indicating that the three cations cooperate to cleave CO. Moreover, the addition of MeOTf to the nitride complex led to an exceptional valence disproportionation of the CsU(IV) -N-U(IV) core to yield CsU(III) (OTf) and [MeN=U(V) ] fragments. The important role of multimetallic cooperativity in both reactions is illustrated by the computed reaction mechanisms. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Conductive Adhesive Based on Mussel-Inspired Graphene Decoration with Silver Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Casa, Marcello; Sarno, Maria; Liguori, Rosalba; Cirillo, Claudia; Rubino, Alfredo; Bezzeccheri, Emanuele; Liu, Johan; Ciambelli, Paolo

2018-02-01

Decoration with silver nanoparticles was obtained by coating graphene with a polydopamine layer, able to induce spontaneous metallic nanoparticles formation without any specific chemical interfacial modifier, neither using complex instrumentation. The choice of dopamine was inspired by the composition of adhesive proteins in mussels, related to their robust attach to solid surfaces. The synthesis procedure started from graphite and involved eco-friendly compounds, such as Vitamin C and glucose as reducing agent and water as reaction medium. Silver decorated graphene was inserted as secondary nanofiller in the formulation of a reference conductive adhesive based on epoxy resin and silver flakes. A wide characterization of the intermediate materials obtained along the step procedure for the adhesive preparation was carried out by several techniques. We have found that the presence of nanofiller yields, in addition to an improvement of the thermal conductivity (up to 7.6 W/m · K), a dramatic enhancement of the electrical conductivity of the adhesive. In particular, starting from 3 · 102 S/cm of the reference adhesive, we obtained a value of 4 · 104 S/cm at a nanofiller concentration of 11.5 wt%. The combined double filler conductivity was evaluated by Zallen's model. The effect of the temperature on the resistivity of the adhesive has been also studied.

Configuration of twins in glass-embedded silver nanoparticles of various origin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hofmeister, H.; Dubiel, M.; Tan, G. L.; Schicke, K.-D.

2005-09-01

Structural characterization using high resolution electron microscopy and diffractogram analysis of silver nanoparticles embedded in glass by various routes of fabrication was aimed at revealing the characteristic features of twin faults occuring in such particles. Nearly spherical silver nanoparticles well below 10 nm size embedded in commercial soda-lime silicate float glass have been fabricated either by silver/sodium ion exchange or by Ag+ ion implantation. Twinned nanoparticles, besides single crystalline species, have frequently been observed for both fabrication routes, mainly at sizes above 5 nm, but also at smaller sizes, even around 1 nm. The variety of particle forms comprises single crystalline particles of nearly cuboctahedron shape, particles containing single twin faults, and multiply twinned particles containing parallel twin lamellae, or cyclic twinned segments arranged around axes of fivefold symmetry. Parallel twinning is distinctly favoured by ion implantation whereas cyclic twinning preferably occurs upon ion exchange processing. Regardless of single or repeated twinning, parallel or cyclic twin arrangement, one may classify simple twin faults of regular atomic configuration and compound twin faults whose irregular configuration consists of additional planar defects like associated stacking faults or secondary twin faults. Besides, a particular superstructure composed of parallel twin lamellae of only three atomic layers thickness is observed.

Caves, mines and subterranean spaces: hazard and risk from exposure to radon.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crockett, R. G. M.; Gillmore, G. K.

2009-04-01

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. It is colourless, odourless and chemically inert. The most hazardous isotope is 222Rn. Radon is formed in the natural environment by the radioactive decay of the element uranium (238U) and is a daughter product of daughter product of radium (226Ra). Uranium and radium are found, in differing degrees, in a wide range of rocks, soils (and building materials that are made from these). Radon concentrations in caves, e.g. limestone caves such as the Great Cave of Niah, Borneo, and caves in the Mendips and Peak District in the UK, has been documented and reveal that both (prehistoric) cave-dwellers and other users such as archaeologists are at risk from exposure to radon a naturally occurring radioactive gas. In general, but dependent on cave geometry and ventilation, radon concentration increases with increasing distance from the entrance, implying that the hazard also increases with distance from the entrance. With regard to mines and mining operations, as well as modern extraction of uranium and radium ores, both ores commonly occur alongside other metallic ores, e.g. silver at Schneeberg and Joachimsthal, and tin in Cornwall, and in some instances, waste from earlier metalliferious mining activity has itself been ‘mined' for uranium and/or radium ores. It is not solely the miners and other subterranean workers which are at risk, other workers and local inhabitants are also at risk. Also, that risk is not eliminated by protection against dust/airborne particulates: the risk from inhalation of radon is only reduced by reducing the inhalation of radon, i.e. use of breathing apparatus. Amongst the general population, radon is the second most significant cause of lung cancer behind tobacco smoking. Estimates vary but 6-9% of lung-cancers are attributable to radon and approximately 2% all cancer deaths are attributable to radon. These proportions will increase in higher-radon environments such as caves, mines and mining areas (via spoil heaps, settlement lagoons etc. containing uranium and radium). We here present an overview of the potential hazard presented by radon in subterranean spaces and by metalliferous mining activities. We also present some speculation as to evidence of (pre-) historic exposure to radon which might potentially exist in archaeological remains and oral traditions. Keywords: radon; caves; metalliferous mining; cave-dwellers; archaeologists.

Method for preparing actinide nitrides

DOEpatents

Bryan, G.H.; Cleveland, J.M.; Heiple, C.R.

1975-12-01

Actinide nitrides, and particularly plutonium and uranium nitrides, are prepared by reacting an ammonia solution of an actinide compound with an ammonia solution of a reactant or reductant metal, to form finely divided actinide nitride precipitate which may then be appropriately separated from the solution. The actinide nitride precipitate is particularly suitable for forming nuclear fuels.

Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction and magnetic anisotropies in Uranium compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sandratskii, L. M.

2018-05-01

We report on the first-principles study of complex noncollinear magnetic structures in Uranium compounds. We contrast two cases. The first is the periodic magnetic structure of U2Pd2In with exactly orthogonal atomic moments, the second is an incommensurate plane spiral structure of UPtGe where the angle between atomic moments of nearest neighbors is also close to 90°. We demonstrate that the hierarchy of magnetic interactions leading to the formation of the magnetic structure is opposite in the two cases. In U2Pd2In, the magnetic anisotropy plays the leading role, followed by the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) interaction specifying the chirality of the structure. Here, the interatomic exchange interaction does not play important role. In UPtGe the hierarchy of the interactions is opposite. The leading interaction is the interatomic exchange interaction responsible for the formation of the incommensurate spiral structure followed by the DMI responsible for the selected chirality of the helix. The magnetic anisotropy is very weak that is a prerequisite for keeping the distortion of the helical structure weak.

Method of isotope separation by chemi-ionization

DOEpatents

Wexler, Sol; Young, Charles E.

1977-05-17

A method for separating specific isotopes present in an isotopic mixture by aerodynamically accelerating a gaseous compound to form a jet of molecules, and passing the jet through a stream of electron donor atoms whereby an electron transfer takes place, thus forming negative ions of the molecules. The molecular ions are then passed through a radiofrequency quadrupole mass filter to separate the specific isotopes. This method may be used for any compounds having a sufficiently high electron affinity to permit negative ion formation, and is especially useful for the separation of plutonium and uranium isotopes.

Characterization of Catalyst Materials for Production of Aerospace Fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Best, Lauren M.; De La Ree, Ana B.; Hepp, Aloysius F.

2012-01-01

Due to environmental, economic, and security issues, there is a greater need for cleaner alternative fuels. There will undoubtedly be a shift from crude oil to non-petroleum sources as a feedstock for aviation (and other transportation) fuels. Additionally, efforts are concentrated on reducing costs coupled with fuel production from non-conventional sources. One solution to this issue is Fischer-Tropsch gas-to-liquid technology. Fischer-Tropsch processing of synthesis gas (CO/H2) produces a complex product stream of paraffins, olefins, and oxygenated compounds such as alcohols and aldehydes. The Fisher-Tropsch process can produce a cleaner diesel oil fraction with a high cetane number (typically above 70) without any sulfur or aromatic compounds. This process is most commonly catalyzed by heterogeneous (in this case, silver and platinum) catalysts composed of cobalt supported on alumina or unsupported alloyed iron powders. Physisorption, chemisorptions, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) are described to better understand the potential performance of Fischer-Tropsch cobalt on alumina catalysts promoted with silver and platinum. The overall goal is to preferentially produce C8 to C18 paraffin compounds for use as aerospace fuels. Progress towards this goal will eventually be updated and achieved by a more thorough understanding of the characterization of catalyst materials. This work was supported by NASA s Subsonic Fixed Wing and In-situ Resource Utilization projects.

Surface plasmon resonance based spectrophotometric determination of medicinally important thiol compounds using unmodified silver nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaishnav, Sandeep K.; Patel, Kuleshwar; Chandraker, Kumudini; Korram, Jyoti; Nagwanshi, Rekha; Ghosh, Kallol K.; Satnami, Manmohan L.

2017-05-01

The determination of thiol based biological molecules and drugs, such as cysteine (Cys) (I), α-lipoic acid (II), and sodium 2-sulfanylethane sulphonate (Mesna (III)) in human plasma are becoming progressively more important due to the growing body of knowledge about their essential role in numerous biological pathways. Herein we demonstrate a sensitive colorimetric sensor for the determination of medicinally important thiol drugs based on aggregation of the citrate capped silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). This approach exploited the high affinity of thiols towards the Ag NPs surface which could tempt replacement of the citrate shell by the thiolate shell of target molecules, resulting in aggregation of the NPs through intermolecular electrostatic interaction or hydrogen-bonding. Because of aggregation, the plasmon band at around 400 nm decreases gradually, along with the appearance of a new band connoting a red shift. The calibration curves are derived from the intensity ratios of A530/A400, which display a linear relation in the range of 1 μM-150 μM, 5 μM-200 μM and 10 μM-130 μM, respectively. The obtained detection limits (3σ) were found to be 1.5 μM, 5.6 μM and 10.2 μM for compound I-III, respectively. The proposed method has been successfully applied for the detection of thiol compounds in real samples.

Characterization of Catalyst Materials for Production of Aerospace Fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DeLaRee, Ana B.; Hepp, Aloysius F.

2011-01-01

Due to environmental, economic, and security issues, there is a greater need for cleaner alternative fuels. There will undoubtedly be a shift from crude oil to non-petroleum sources as a feedstock for aviation (and other transportation) fuels. Additionally, efforts are concentrated on reducing costs coupled with fuel production from non-conventional sources. One solution to this issue is Fischer-Tropsch gas-to-liquid technology. Fischer-Tropsch processing of synthesis gas (CO/H2) produces a complex product stream of paraffins, olefins, and oxygenated compounds such as alcohols and aldehydes. The Fisher-Tropsch process can produce a cleaner diesel oil fraction with a high cetane number (typically above 70) without any sulfur or aromatic compounds. This process is most commonly catalyzed by heterogeneous (in this case, silver and platinum) catalysts composed of cobalt supported on alumina or unsupported alloyed iron powders. Physisorption, chemisorptions, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) are described to better understand the potential performance of Fischer-Tropsch cobalt on alumina catalysts promoted with silver and platinum. The overall goal is to preferentially produce C8 to C18 paraffin compounds for use as aerospace fuels. Progress towards this goal will eventually be updated and achieved by a more thorough understanding of the characterization of catalyst materials. This work was supported by NASA s Subsonic Fixed Wing and In-situ Resource Utilization projects.

Geological conditions of safe long-term storage and disposal of depleted uranium hexafluoride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laverov, N. P.; Velichkin, V. I.; Omel'Yanenko, B. I.; Yudintsev, S. V.; Tagirov, B. R.

2010-08-01

The production of enriched uranium used in nuclear weapons and fuel for atomic power plants is accompanied by the formation of depleted uranium (DU), the amount of which annually increases by 35-40 kt. To date, more than 1.6 Mt DU has accumulated in the world. The main DU mass is stored as environ-mentally hazardous uranium hexafluoride (UF6), which is highly volatile and soluble in water with the formation of hydrofluoric acid. To ensure safe UF6 storage, it is necessary to convert this compound in chemically stable phases. The industrial reprocessing of UF6 into U3O8 and HF implemented in France is highly expensive. We substantiate the expediency of long-term storage of depleted uranium hexafluoride in underground repositories localized in limestone. On the basis of geochemical data and thermodynamic calculations, we show that interaction in the steel container-UF6-limestone-groundwater system gives rise to the development of a slightly alkaline reductive medium favorable for chemical reaction with formation of uraninite (UO2) and fluorite (CaF2). The proposed engineering solution not only ensures safe DU storage but also makes it possible to produce uraninite, which can be utilized, if necessary, in fast-neutron reactors. In the course of further investigations aimed at safe maintenance of DU, it is necessary to study the kinetics of conversion of UF6 into stable phases, involving laboratory and field experiments.

The phase state at high temperatures in the MOX-SiO 2 system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakamichi, S.; Kato, M.; Sunaoshi, T.; Uchida, T.; Morimoto, K.; Kashimura, M.; Kihara, Y.

2009-06-01

Influence of impurity Si on microstructure in a plutonium and uranium mixed oxide (MOX), which is used for fast breeder reactor fuel, was investigated, and phase state in 25% SiO 2 - (U 0.7Pu 0.3)O 2 was observed as a function of oxygen chemical potential. Compounds composed of Pu and Si with other elements were observed at grain boundaries of the MOX parent phase in the specimens after annealing. These compounds were not observed in the grain interior and the MOX phase was not affected significantly by impurity Si. It was found that the compounds tended to form more observably with decreasing O/M ratio and with increasing annealing temperatures.

A simple method for estimation of coagulation efficiency in mixed aerosols. [environmental pollution control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dimmick, R. L.; Boyd, A.; Wolochow, H.

1975-01-01

Aerosols of KBr and AgNO3 were mixed, exposed to light in a glass tube and collected in the dark. About 15% of the collected material was reduced to silver upon development. Thus, two aerosols of particles that react to form a photo-reducible compound can be used to measure coagulation efficiency.

Non-traditional Oxidants in Preparative Coordination Chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kukushkin, Vadim Yu; Kukushkin, Yurii N.

1986-10-01

The application of nitrosonium and arenediazonium salts, carbenium, silver(I), and mercury(II) ions, protic acids, and amine oxides as oxidants in preparative coordination chemistry is examined. Specific examples illustrate which problems in the field of the synthesis and reactions of coordination compounds can be solved with the aid of these oxidants. The bibliography includes 158 references.

Solid state speciation of uranium and its local structure in Sr2CeO4 using photoluminescence spectroscopy.

PubMed

Sahu, M; Gupta, Santosh K; Jain, D; Saxena, M K; Kadam, R M

2018-04-15

An effort was taken to carry our speciation study of uranium ion in technologically important cerate host Sr 2 CeO 4 using time resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy. Such studies are not relevant only to nuclear industry but can give rich insight into fundamentals of 5f electron chemistry in solid state systems. In this work both undoped and varied amount of uranium doped Sr 2 CeO 4 compound is synthesized using complex polymerization method and is characterized systematically using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, impedance spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Both XRD and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the formation of pure Sr 2 CeO 4 which has tendency to decompose peritectically to SrCeO 3 and SrO at higher temperature. Uranium doping is confirmed by XRD. Uranium exhibits a rich chemistry owing to its variable oxidation state from +3 to +6. Each of them exhibits distinct luminescence properties either due to f-f transitions or ligand to metal charge transfer (LMCT). We have taken Sr 2 CeO 4 as a model host lattice to understand the photophysical characteristics of uranium ion in it. Emission spectroscopy revealed the stabilization of uranium as U (VI) in the form of UO 6 6- (octahedral uranate) in Sr 2 CeO 4 . Emission kinetics study reflects that uranate ions are not homogeneously distributed in Sr 2 CeO 4 and it has two different environments due to its stabilization at both Sr 2+ as well as Ce 4+ site. The lifetime population analysis interestingly pinpointed that majority of uranate ion resided at Ce 4+ site. The critical energy-transfer distance between the uranate ion was determined based on which the concentration quenching mechanism was attributed to electric multipolar interaction. These studies are very important in designing Sr 2 CeO 4 based optoelectronic material as well exploring it for actinides studies. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Properties, use and health effects of depleted uranium (DU): a general overview.

PubMed

Bleise, A; Danesi, P R; Burkart, W

2003-01-01

Depleted uranium (DU), a waste product of uranium enrichment, has several civilian and military applications. It was used as armor-piercing ammunition in international military conflicts and was claimed to contribute to health problems, known as the Gulf War Syndrome and recently as the Balkan Syndrome. This led to renewed efforts to assess the environmental consequences and the health impact of the use of DU. The radiological and chemical properties of DU can be compared to those of natural uranium, which is ubiquitously present in soil at a typical concentration of 3 mg/kg. Natural uranium has the same chemotoxicity, but its radiotoxicity is 60% higher. Due to the low specific radioactivity and the dominance of alpha-radiation no acute risk is attributed to external exposure to DU. The major risk is DU dust, generated when DU ammunition hits hard targets. Depending on aerosol speciation, inhalation may lead to a protracted exposure of the lung and other organs. After deposition on the ground, resuspension can take place if the DU containing particle size is sufficiently small. However, transfer to drinking water or locally produced food has little potential to lead to significant exposures to DU. Since poor solubility of uranium compounds and lack of information on speciation precludes the use of radioecological models for exposure assessment, biomonitoring has to be used for assessing exposed persons. Urine, feces, hair and nails record recent exposures to DU. With the exception of crews of military vehicles having been hit by DU penetrators, no body burdens above the range of values for natural uranium have been found. Therefore, observable health effects are not expected and residual cancer risk estimates have to be based on theoretical considerations. They appear to be very minor for all post-conflict situations, i.e. a fraction of those expected from natural radiation.

Solid state speciation of uranium and its local structure in Sr2CeO4 using photoluminescence spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahu, M.; Gupta, Santosh K.; Jain, D.; Saxena, M. K.; Kadam, R. M.

2018-04-01

An effort was taken to carry our speciation study of uranium ion in technologically important cerate host Sr2CeO4 using time resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy. Such studies are not relevant only to nuclear industry but can give rich insight into fundamentals of 5f electron chemistry in solid state systems. In this work both undoped and varied amount of uranium doped Sr2CeO4 compound is synthesized using complex polymerization method and is characterized systematically using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Both XRD and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the formation of pure Sr2CeO4 which has tendency to decompose peritectically to SrCeO3 and SrO at higher temperature. Uranium doping is confirmed by XRD. Uranium exhibits a rich chemistry owing to its variable oxidation state from +3 to +6. Each of them exhibits distinct luminescence properties either due to f-f transitions or ligand to metal charge transfer (LMCT). We have taken Sr2CeO4 as a model host lattice to understand the photophysical characteristics of uranium ion in it. Emission spectroscopy revealed the stabilization of uranium as U (VI) in the form of UO66- (octahedral uranate) in Sr2CeO4. Emission kinetics study reflects that uranate ions are not homogeneously distributed in Sr2CeO4 and it has two different environments due to its stabilization at both Sr2+ as well as Ce4+ site. The lifetime population analysis interestingly pinpointed that majority of uranate ion resided at Ce4+ site. The critical energy-transfer distance between the uranate ion was determined based on which the concentration quenching mechanism was attributed to electric multipolar interaction. These studies are very important in designing Sr2CeO4 based optoelectronic material as well exploring it for actinides studies.

Uranium reduction and microbial community development in response to stimulation with different electron donors.

PubMed

Barlett, Melissa; Moon, Hee Sun; Peacock, Aaron A; Hedrick, David B; Williams, Kenneth H; Long, Philip E; Lovley, Derek; Jaffe, Peter R

2012-07-01

Stimulating microbial reduction of soluble U(VI) to less soluble U(IV) shows promise as an in situ bioremediation strategy for uranium contaminated groundwater, but the optimal electron donors for promoting this process have yet to be identified. The purpose of this study was to better understand how the addition of various electron donors to uranium-contaminated subsurface sediments affected U(VI) reduction and the composition of the microbial community. The simple electron donors, acetate or lactate, or the more complex donors, hydrogen-release compound (HRC) or vegetable oil, were added to the sediments incubated in flow-through columns. The composition of the microbial communities was evaluated with quantitative PCR probing specific 16S rRNA genes and functional genes, phospholipid fatty acid analysis, and clone libraries. All the electron donors promoted U(VI) removal, even though the composition of the microbial communities was different with each donor. In general, the overall biomass, rather than the specific bacterial species, was the factor most related to U(VI) removal. Vegetable oil and HRC were more effective in stimulating U(VI) removal than acetate. These results suggest that the addition of more complex organic electron donors could be an excellent option for in situ bioremediation of uranium-contaminated groundwater.

Synergy of Silver Nanoparticles and Aztreonam against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 Biofilms

PubMed Central

Park, Amber J.; Vis, Emily C.; Harris, Robert J.

2014-01-01

Pathogenic bacterial biofilms, such as those found in the lungs of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), exhibit increased antimicrobial resistance, due in part to the inherent architecture of the biofilm community. The protection provided by the biofilm limits antimicrobial dispersion and penetration and reduces the efficacy of antibiotics that normally inhibit planktonic cell growth. Thus, alternative antimicrobial strategies are required to combat persistent infections. The antimicrobial properties of silver have been known for decades, but silver and silver-containing compounds have recently seen renewed interest as antimicrobial agents for treating bacterial infections. The goal of this study was to assess the efficacy of citrate-capped silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) of various sizes, alone and in combination with the monobactam antibiotic aztreonam, to inhibit Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 biofilms. Among the different sizes of AgNPs examined, 10-nm nanoparticles were most effective in inhibiting the recovery of P. aeruginosa biofilm cultures and showed synergy of inhibition when combined with sub-MIC levels of aztreonam. Visualization of biofilms treated with combinations of 10-nm AgNPs and aztreonam indicated that the synergistic bactericidal effects are likely caused by better penetration of the small AgNPs into the biofilm matrix, which enhances the deleterious effects of aztreonam against the cell envelope of P. aeruginosa within the biofilms. These data suggest that small AgNPs synergistically enhance the antimicrobial effects of aztreonam against P. aeruginosa in vitro, and they reveal a potential role for combinations of small AgNPs and antibiotics in treating patients with chronic infections. PMID:25049240

Antimicrobial silver-montmorillonite nanoparticles to prolong the shelf life of fresh fruit salad.

PubMed

Costa, C; Conte, A; Buonocore, G G; Del Nobile, M A

2011-08-15

In this work, silver-montmorillonite (Ag-MMT) antimicrobial nanoparticles have been obtained by allowing silver ions from nitrate solutions to replace the Na(+) of natural montmorillonite and then to be reduced by a thermal treatment. Ag-MMT were used as active antimicrobial compounds to improve the shelf life of fresh fruit salad. In order to assess their influence on product shelf life, sensorial and microbiological quality has been monitored during the storage. The microbiological quality was determined by monitoring the principal spoilage microorganisms (mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria, coliforms, lactic acid bacteria, yeasts and molds). Additionally, the evolution of sensorial quality was assessed by monitoring color, odor, firmness and product overall quality. The Ag-MMT nanoparticles seemed to be effective in inhibiting microbial growth, above all at the highest tested concentration. Consequently, the sensorial quality of samples stored in the active packaging appeared to be better preserved. Thus, experimental results showed that a significant shelf life prolongation of fresh fruit salad can be obtained by a straightforward new packaging system. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Antimicrobial activity of biopolymeric thin films containing flavonoid natural compounds and silver nanoparticles fabricated by MAPLE: A comparative study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cristescu, R.; Visan, A.; Socol, G.; Surdu, A. V.; Oprea, A. E.; Grumezescu, A. M.; Chifiriuc, M. C.; Boehm, R. D.; Yamaleyeva, D.; Taylor, M.; Narayan, R. J.; Chrisey, D. B.

2016-06-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the interactions between microorganisms, including the planktonic and adherent organisms, and biopolymer (polyvinylpyrrolidone), flavonoid (quercetin dihydrate and resveratrol)-biopolymer, and silver nanoparticles-biopolymer composite thin films that were deposited using matrix assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE). A pulsed KrF* excimer laser source was used to deposit the aforementioned composite thin films, which were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), infrared microscopy (IRM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The antimicrobial activity of thin films was quantified using an adapted disk diffusion assay against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria strains. FT-IR, AFM and SEM studies confirmed that MAPLE may be used to fabricate thin films with chemical properties corresponding to the input materials as well as surface properties that are appropriate for medical use. The silver nanoparticles and flavonoid-containing films exhibited an antimicrobial activity both against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains demonstrating the potential use of these hybrid systems for the development of novel antimicrobial strategies.

Lithium

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jaskula, B.W.

2012-01-01

In 2011, world lithium consumption was estimated to have been about 25 kt (25,000 st) of lithium contained in minerals and compounds, a 10-percent increase from 2010. U.S. consumption was estimated to have been about 2 kt (2,200 st) of contained lithium, a 100-percent increase from 2010. The United States was estimated to be the fourth-ranked consumer of lithium and remained the leading importer of lithium carbonate and the leading producer of value-added lithium materials. One company, Chemetall Foote Corp. (a subsidiary of Chemetall GmbH of Germany), produced lithium compounds from domestic brine resources near Silver Peak, NV.

Plasmid-determined resistance to tellurium compounds.

PubMed Central

Summers, A O; Jacoby, G A

1977-01-01

Transferable plasmids in gram-negative bacteria that confer resistance to potassium tellurite or tellurate were found. This re-istance was distinct from resistance to mercury, silver, or arsenic compounds and was unrelated to antibiotic resistance. In Escherichia coli, plasmids determine a 100-fold increase in the minimal inhibitory concentration for tellurite and a 10-fold increase in tellurate resistance. Many, but not all, of the plasmids belong to incompatibility group S. In Pseudomonas aeruginosa, tellurium resistance is specifically associated with incompatibility group P-2 and involves a 5- to 10-fold increase in tellurite or tellurate resistance. Images PMID:401494

Inert electrode containing metal oxides, copper and noble metal

DOEpatents

Ray, Siba P.; Woods, Robert W.; Dawless, Robert K.; Hosler, Robert B.

2001-01-01

A cermet composite material is made by treating at an elevated temperature a mixture comprising a compound of iron and a compound of at least one other metal, together with an alloy or mixture of copper and a noble metal. The alloy or mixture preferably comprises particles having an interior portion containing more copper than noble metal and an exterior portion containing more noble metal than copper. The noble metal is preferably silver. The cermet composite material preferably includes alloy phase portions and a ceramic phase portion. At least part of the ceramic phase portion preferably has a spinel structure.

Inert electrode containing metal oxides, copper and noble metal

DOEpatents

Ray, Siba P.; Woods, Robert W.; Dawless, Robert K.; Hosler, Robert B.

2000-01-01

A cermet composite material is made by treating at an elevated temperature a mixture comprising a compound of iron and a compound of at least one other metal, together with an alloy or mixture of copper and a noble metal. The alloy or mixture preferably comprises particles having an interior portion containing more copper than noble metal and an exterior portion containing more noble metal than copper. The noble metal is preferably silver. The cermet composite material preferably includes alloy phase portions and a ceramic phase portion. At least part of the ceramic phase portion preferably has a spinel structure.

Unexpected Magnetic Ordering on the Cr Substructure in UCr2Si2C and Structural Relationships in Quaternary U-Cr-Si-C Compounds.

PubMed

Lemoine, Pierric; Vernière, Anne; Pasturel, Mathieu; Venturini, Gérard; Malaman, Bernard

2018-03-05

Previous experimental and theoretical studies revealed that carbon insertion into the RCr 2 Si 2 compounds drastically affects the magnetic behavior, since chromium does not carry any magnetic moment in RCr 2 Si 2 C (R = Y, La-Sm, Gd-Er) compounds in contrast to RCr 2 Si 2 (R = Y, Sm, Gd-Lu, Th) compounds. In this study, we report on the unexpected magnetic ordering of chromium atoms in the isotype quaternary UCr 2 Si 2 C compound. While specific heat and magnetic measurements suggest a Pauli paramagnetic behavior, neutron powder diffraction reveals an antiferromagnetic ordering of the chromium substructure at high temperature ( T N > 300 K), while that of uranium remains nonmagnetically ordered down to 2 K. Its magnetic behavior, inverse in comparison to the RCr 2 Si 2 C carbides involving a magnetic lanthanide, is discussed in relation with the singularity of its crystal structure among the series. Moreover, the crystallographic structures and the structural stability of UCr 2 Si 2 C and of two other quaternary U-Cr-Si-C compounds (i.e., UCr 3 Si 2 C and U 2 Cr 3 Si 2 C 3 ), based on the full occupancy of interstitial sites by carbon atoms, are discussed and compared to those of the related ternary intermetallics. Finally, the low-temperature form of UCr 2 Si 2 , corresponding to a displacive transformation around 210 K of the ThCr 2 Si 2 -type structure, is reinvestigated by considering a higher symmetry monoclinic unit cell ( C2/ m) instead of the previously reported triclinic cell ( P1̅). The antiferromagnetic ordering at low temperature ( T N = 30(2) K) of the uranium substructure is confirmed, and its magnetic structure is reanalyzed and discussed considering the monoclinic crystal structure.

Chloro-, methyl-, and (tetrahydroborato)tris((hexamethyldisilyl)amido)thorium(IV) and -uranium(IV). Crystal structure of (tetrahydroborato)tris((hexamethyldisilyl)amido)thorium(IV)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Turner, H.W.; Andersen, R.A.; Zalkin, A.

1979-05-01

Reaction of sodium (hexamethyldisilyl)amide with thorium tetrachloride or uranium tetrachloride yields chlorotris-((hexamethyldisilyl)amido)thorium(IV) or -uranium(IV), respectively. The chloroamides of thorium or uranium react with dimethylmagnesium or methyllithium yielding the methyl derivatives MeTh(N(SiMe/sub 3/)/sub 2/)/sub 3/ or MeU(N(SiMe/sub 3/)/sub 2/)/sub 3/, respectively. The chloro compounds yield BH/sub 4/M(N(SiMe/sub 3/)/sub 2/)/sub 3/ upon reaction with lithium tetrahydroborate, where M is thorium or uranium. Infrared spectra of the tetrahydroborate derivatives suggest that BH/sub 4/ is bonded in a tridentate fashion in both compounds, the metal atoms being six-coordinate. Single-crystal X-ray analysis of the thorium borohydride confirms the infrared result. The white BH/sub 4/Th(N(Si(CH/sub 3/))/submore » 2/)/sub 3/ crystals are rhombohedral with cell dimensions a/sub r/ = 11.137 A and ..cap alpha../sub r/ = 113.61/sup 0/; the triply primitive hexagonal cell has a/sub h/ = 18.640 (3) A c/sub h/ = 8.604 (1) A, V = 2489 A/sup 3/, Z = 3, and D/sub x/ = 1.40 g/cm/sup 3/, space group R3m. The structure was refined by full-matrix least squares to a conventional R factor of 0.031 for 1014 data. The Th atom is on a threefold axis 2.32 A from three nitrogen atoms and 2.61 A from the boron atom, a distance which represents a triple bridge bond between Th and B. The three (dimethylsilyl)amide ligands are disordered by a mirror plane parallel to the threefold axis. CH/sub 3/Th(N(Si(CH/sub 3/)/sub 3/)/sub 2/)/sub 3/ is isomorphous with BH/sub 4/Th(N(Si(CH/sub 3/)/sub 3/)/sub 2/)/sub 3/ with cell dimensions a/sub h/ = 18.68 (1) A and c/sub h/ = 8.537 (6) A. The diffraction data yielded integral'' = 12.16 +- 0.33 e for the imaginary scattering term for Th with Cu K..cap alpha.. radiation.« less

Microanalysis of organic pigments and glazes in polychrome works of art by surface-enhanced resonance Raman scattering

PubMed Central

Leona, Marco

2009-01-01

Scientific studies of works of art are usually limited by severe sampling restrictions. The identification of organic colorants, a class of compounds relevant for attribution and provenance studies, is further complicated by the low concentrations at which these compounds are used and by the interference of the protein-, gum-, or oil-binding media present in pigment and glaze samples. Surface-enhanced resonance Raman scattering (SERRS) was successfully used to identify natural organic colorants in archaeological objects, polychrome sculptures, and paintings from samples smaller than 25 μm in diameter. The key factors in achieving the necessary sensitivity were a highly active stabilized silver colloid, obtained by the reproducible microwave-supported reduction of silver sulfate with glucose and sodium citrate, and a non-extractive hydrolysis sample treatment procedure that maximizes dye adsorption on the colloid. Among the examples presented are the earliest so far found occurrence of madder lake (in a 4,000 years old Egyptian object dating to the Middle Kingdom period), and the earliest known occurrence in Europe of the South Asian dyestuff lac (in the Morgan Madonna, a 12th century polychrome sculpture from Auvergne, France). PMID:19667181

Laminarin based AgNPs using brown seaweed Turbinaria ornata and its induction of apoptosis in human retinoblastoma Y79 cancer cell lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Remya, R. R.; Radhika Rajasree, S. R.; Suman, T. Y.; Aranganathan, L.; Gayathri, S.; Gobalakrishnan, M.; Karthih, M. G.

2018-03-01

Biosynthesis of nanoparticles using isolated compounds from various sources is accepting interest due to their broad array of biological activities and biocompatibility. This paper presents a simple; cost effective and green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the polysaccharide, laminarin a storage compound obtained from the brown algae Turbinaria ornata (T. ornata). Initially, the water soluble polysaccharide, laminarin was extracted, purified and analyzed using Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF MS) and Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H NMR). Further, the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using the isolated laminarin and were characterized by Ultraviolet - visible (UV-vis) spectrophotometer, colour value analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM). The free radical scavenging activities were performed and the effect of cytotoxicity against retinoblastoma Y79 cell lines was also evaluated by in vitro studies. Induction of apoptosis was evident by the percentage of cells arrested in G2/M phase using flow cytometry analysis and was further confirmed by DNA fragmentation study which identified the presence of double strand break.

Enhancement of antibiotic effect via gold:silver-alloy nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

dos Santos, Margarida Moreira; Queiroz, Margarida João; Baptista, Pedro V.

2012-05-01

A strategy for the development of novel antimicrobials is to combine the stability and pleiotropic effects of inorganic compounds with the specificity and efficiency of organic compounds, such as antibiotics. Here we report on the use of gold:silver-alloy (Au:Ag-alloy) nanoparticles, obtained via a single-step citrate co-reduction method, combined to conventional antibiotics to enhance their antimicrobial effect on bacteria. Addition of the alloy nanoparticles considerably decreased the dose of antibiotic necessary to show antimicrobial effect, both for bacterial cells growing in rich medium in suspension and for bacterial cells resting in a physiological buffer on a humid cellulose surface. The observed effect was more pronounced than the sum of the individual effects of the nanoparticles and antibiotic. We demonstrate the enhancement effect of Au:Ag-alloy nanoparticles with a size distribution of 32.5 ± 7.5 nm mean diameter on the antimicrobial effect of (i) kanamycin on Escherichia coli (Gram-negative bacterium), and (ii) a β-lactam antibiotic on both a sensitive and resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive bacterium). Together, these results may pave the way for the combined use of nanoparticle-antibiotic conjugates towards decreasing antibiotic resistance currently observed for certain bacteria and conventional antibiotics.

Formulation, evaluation and bioactive potential of Xylaria primorskensis terpenoid nanoparticles from its major compound xylaranic acid.

PubMed

Adnan, Mohd; Patel, Mitesh; Reddy, Mandadi Narsimha; Alshammari, Eyad

2018-01-29

In recent years, fungi have been shown to produce a plethora of new bioactive secondary metabolites of interest, as new lead structures for medicinal and other pharmacological applications. The present investigation was carried out to study the pharmacological properties of a potent and major bioactive compound: xylaranic acid, which was obtained from Xylaria primorskensis (X. primorskensis) terpenoids in terms of antibacterial activity, antioxidant potential against DPPH & H 2 O 2 radicals and anticancer activity against human lung cancer cells. Due to terpenoid nature, low water solubility and wretched bioavailability, its pharmacological use is limited. To overcome these drawbacks, a novel xylaranic acid silver nanoparticle system (AgNPs) is developed. In addition to improving its solubility and bioavailability, other advantageous pharmacological properties has been evaluated. Furthermore, enhanced anticancer activity of xylaranic acid and its AgNPs due to induced apoptosis were also confirmed by determining the expression levels of apoptosis regulatory genes p53, bcl-2 and caspase-3 via qRT PCR method. This is the first study developing the novel xylaranic acid silver nanoparticle system and enlightening its therapeutic significance with its improved physico-chemical properties and augmented bioactive potential.

Microanalysis of organic pigments and glazes in polychrome works of art by surface-enhanced resonance Raman scattering.

PubMed

Leona, Marco

2009-09-01

Scientific studies of works of art are usually limited by severe sampling restrictions. The identification of organic colorants, a class of compounds relevant for attribution and provenance studies, is further complicated by the low concentrations at which these compounds are used and by the interference of the protein-, gum-, or oil-binding media present in pigment and glaze samples. Surface-enhanced resonance Raman scattering (SERRS) was successfully used to identify natural organic colorants in archaeological objects, polychrome sculptures, and paintings from samples smaller than 25 microm in diameter. The key factors in achieving the necessary sensitivity were a highly active stabilized silver colloid, obtained by the reproducible microwave-supported reduction of silver sulfate with glucose and sodium citrate, and a non-extractive hydrolysis sample treatment procedure that maximizes dye adsorption on the colloid. Among the examples presented are the earliest so far found occurrence of madder lake (in a 4,000 years old Egyptian object dating to the Middle Kingdom period), and the earliest known occurrence in Europe of the South Asian dyestuff lac (in the Morgan Madonna, a 12th century polychrome sculpture from Auvergne, France).

Multifunctional silver nanoparticle-doped silica for solid-phase extraction and surface-enhanced Raman scattering detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Markina, Natalia E.; Markin, Alexey V.; Zakharevich, Andrey M.; Gorin, Dmitry A.; Rusanova, Tatiana Yu.; Goryacheva, Irina Yu.

2016-12-01

Multifunctional silica gel with embedded silver nanoparticles (SiO2-AgNP) is proposed for application as sorbent for solid-phase extraction (SPE) and simultaneously as substrate for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) due to their high sorption properties and ability to enhance Raman signal (SERS-active sorbents). SiO2-AgNP was synthesized via alkaline hydrolysis of tetraethyl orthosilicate with simultaneous reduction of silver ions to silver nanoparticles (AgNP) within the SiO2 bulk. Synthesis of AgNP directly to the SiO2 matrix enables to exclude any additional stabilizers for the nanoparticles that educes signal-to-noise ratio during SERS measurement. Apart from Raman spectroscopy, obtained sorbents were also characterized by scanning electron microscopy and UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The influence of AgNO3 concentration used during the SiO2-AgNP synthesis on its gelling time, color, diffuse reflectance spectra, and enhancement of Raman signal was investigated. A Raman enhancement factor of SiO2-AgNP with optimal composition was around 105. Finally, the sorbents were applied for SPE and subsequent SERS detection of model compounds (rhodamine 6G and folic acid). It was found that SPE enables to decrease detectable concentrations by two orders. Therefore, SPE combined with SERS has high potential for further analytical investigations.

SEPARATION PROCESS FOR ZIRCONIUM AND COMPOUNDS THEREOF

DOEpatents

Crandall, H.W.; Thomas, J.R.

1959-06-30

The separation of zirconium from columbium, rare earths, yttrium and the alkaline earth metals, such mixtures of elements occurring in zirconium ores or neutron irradiated uranium is described. According to the invention a suitable separation of zirconium from a one normal acidic aqueous solution containing salts, nitrates for example, of tetravalent zirconium, pentavalent columbium, yttrium, rare earths in the trivalent state and alkaline earths can be obtained by contacting the aqueous solution with a fluorinated beta diketonc alone or in an organic solvent solution, such as benzene, to form a zirconium chelate compound. When the organic solvent is present the zirconium chelate compound is directly extracted; otherwise it is separated by filtration. The zirconium may be recovered from contacting the organic solvent solution containing the chelated compound by back extraction with either an aqueous hydrofluoric acid or an oxalic acid solution.

Antimicrobial Treatment of Polymeric Medical Devices by Silver Nanomaterials and Related Technology.

PubMed

Polívková, Markéta; Hubáček, Tomáš; Staszek, Marek; Švorčík, Václav; Siegel, Jakub

2017-02-15

Antimicrobial biocompatible polymers form a group of highly desirable materials in medicinal technology that exhibit interesting thermal and mechanical properties, and high chemical resistance. There are numerous types of polymers with antimicrobial activity or antimicrobial properties conferred through their proper modification. In this review, we focus on the second type of polymers, especially those whose antimicrobial activity is conferred by nanotechnology. Nanotechnology processing is a developing area that exploits the antibacterial effects of broad-scale compounds, both organic and inorganic, to form value-added medical devices. This work gives an overview of nanostructured antimicrobial agents, especially silver ones, used together with biocompatible polymers as effective antimicrobial composites in healthcare. The bactericidal properties of non-conventional antimicrobial agents are compared with those of conventional ones and the advantages and disadvantages are discussed.

Low-resistance noble metal contacts to high-temperature superconductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Selim, R.; Caton, R.; Buoncristiani, A. M.; Byvik, C. E.; Edahl, R. A., Jr.

1990-01-01

Low-resistance contacts were made to both YBa2Cu3O(7-x) and Bi2BaSr2Cu2O8, and to related superconducting compounds by melting gold or silver pads onto the samples before the final oxygen treatment. Scanning electron microscope studies show that both gold and silver do not diffuse far from the contact area. The surface contact resistivity of the best contacts made by the melting technique has an upper limit value in the 10 to the -8th ohm sq cm range at 77 K. This contact resistivity shows no significant change in its value over a period of 17 months. Furthermore, an electron radiation dose of 5.7 x 10 to the 17th electron/sq cm only doubled the contact resistivity.

Silver Coating for High-Mass-Accuracy Imaging Mass Spectrometry of Fingerprints on Nanostructured Silicon.

PubMed

Guinan, Taryn M; Gustafsson, Ove J R; McPhee, Gordon; Kobus, Hilton; Voelcker, Nicolas H

2015-11-17

Nanostructure imaging mass spectrometry (NIMS) using porous silicon (pSi) is a key technique for molecular imaging of exogenous and endogenous low molecular weight compounds from fingerprints. However, high-mass-accuracy NIMS can be difficult to achieve as time-of-flight (ToF) mass analyzers, which dominate the field, cannot sufficiently compensate for shifts in measured m/z values. Here, we show internal recalibration using a thin layer of silver (Ag) sputter-coated onto functionalized pSi substrates. NIMS peaks for several previously reported fingerprint components were selected and mass accuracy was compared to theoretical values. Mass accuracy was improved by more than an order of magnitude in several cases. This straightforward method should form part of the standard guidelines for NIMS studies for spatial characterization of small molecules.

Potential Signatures of Semi-volatile Compounds Associated With Nuclear Processing

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Probasco, Kathleen M.; Birnbaum, Jerome C.; Maughan, A. D.

2002-06-01

Semi-volatile chemicals associated with nuclear processes (e.g., the reprocessing of uranium to produce plutonium for nuclear weapons, or the separation of actinides from processing waste streams), can provide sticky residues or signatures that will attach to piping, ducting, soil, water, or other surface media. Volatile compounds, that are more suitable for electro-optical sensing, have been well studied. However, the semi-volatile compounds have not been well documented or studied. A majority of these semi-volatile chemicals are more robust than typical gaseous or liquid chemicals and can have lifetimes of several weeks, months, or years in the environment. However, large data gapsmore » exist concerning these potential signature compounds and more research is needed to fill these data gaps so that important signature information is not overlooked or discarded. This report investigates key semi-volatile compounds associated with nuclear separations, identifies available chemical and physical properties, and discusses the degradation products that would result from hydrolysis, radiolysis and oxidation reactions on these compounds.« less

Crystalline Structure and Physical Properties of UCo2Al3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verdín, E.; Escudero, R.

Some intermetallic compounds which contain uranium or cerium present heavy fermion characteristics. Take, for example, in the UM2Al3 (M=Pd, Ni) family, superconductivity and magnetism coexist and present heavy fermion behavior. This work presents the crystallographic characteristics and physical properties of a new compound of this family; the intermetallic compound UCo2Al3. Our initial crystallographic studies performed in a small single crystal show that the structure is hexagonal and similar to the UNi2Al3 and UPd2Al3 parent compounds. The space group is P6/mmm with a=5.125 Å and c=4.167 Å crystalline parameters. Measurements of resistivity and magnetization performed on the single crystal reveal that the compound is not superconducting when measured at about 1.8 K. The compound is highly anisotropic and features related to Kondo-like behavior are observed. A weak ferromagnetic transition is observed at a temperature of about 20 K.

Heavy Fermions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugiyama, K.; Ónuki, Y.

Recent experimental results of high-field magnetization and de Haas-van Alphen experiments in f-electron systems are presented. The magnetic moment and the electronic state are simultaneously discussed because both properties are connected with each other. The first example is a drastic change of the Fermi surface in the antiferromagnet NdIn3. The second is the metamagnetic transition based on the quadrupolar interaction in PrCu2. The third is the metamagnetic transition in a typical heavy fermion compound CeRu2Si2, together with the heavy fermion uranium compounds such as UPd2Al3, URu2Si2 and UPt3.

Groundwater quality in central New York, 2012

USGS Publications Warehouse

Reddy, James E.

2014-01-01

Water samples were collected from 14 production wells and 15 private wells in central New York from August through December 2012 in a study conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey in cooperation with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The samples were analyzed to characterize the groundwater quality in unconsolidated and bedrock aquifers in this area. Fifteen of the wells are finished in sand-and-gravel aquifers, and 14 are finished in bedrock aquifers. Six of the 29 wells were sampled in a previous central New York study, which was conducted in 2007. Water samples from the 2012 study were analyzed for 147 physiochemical properties and constituents, including major ions, nutrients, trace elements, radionuclides, pesticides, volatile organic compounds, dissolved gases (argon, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrogen, oxygen), and indicator bacteria. Results of the water-quality analyses are presented in tabular form for individual wells, and summary statistics for specific constituents are presented by aquifer type. The results are compared with Federal and New York State drinking-water standards, which typically are identical. The results indicate that the groundwater generally is of acceptable quality, although for all of the wells sampled, at least one of the following constituents was detected at a concentration that exceeded current or proposed Federal or New York State drinking-water standards: color (2 samples), pH (7 samples), sodium (9 samples), chloride (2 samples), fluoride (2 samples), sulfate (2 samples), dissolved solids (8 samples), aluminum (4 samples), arsenic (1 sample), iron (9 samples), manganese (13 samples), radon-222 (13 samples), total coliform bacteria (6 samples), and heterotrophic bacteria (2 samples). Drinking-water standards for nitrate, nitrite, antimony, barium, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, selenium, silver, thallium, zinc, gross alpha radioactivity, uranium, fecal coliform, and Escherichia coliwere not exceeded in any of the samples collected. None of the pesticides or volatile organic compounds analyzed exceeded drinking-water standards. Methane was detected in 11 sand-and-gravel wells and 9 bedrock wells. Five of the 14 bedrock wells had water with methane concentrations approaching 10 mg/L; water in one bedrock well had 37 mg/L of methane.

Mineral resource appraisal of the Salmon National Forest, Idaho

USGS Publications Warehouse

Johnson, Rick; Close, Terry; McHugh, Ed

1998-01-01

The Salmon National Forest administers 1,776,994 net acres of mountainous terrain located in east-central Idaho. Most of the Forest is in Lemhi County; only a small portion falls within Idaho and Valley Counties. Approximately 426,114 acres of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness extends into the western part of the Forest and mineral entry is severely restricted. Because of its location within the Salmon River drainage, the Forest also is subject to numerous issues surrounding restoration of anadromous fish runs. Mineral production from the Salmon National Forest began during 1866 when placer gold was discovered in Leesburg Basin. Hardrock mining quickly spread throughout the Forest and many deposits containing a wide range of commodities were discovered and developed. Although early records are sketchy, production is estimated to include 940,000 ounces gold, 654,000 ounces silver, 61.9 million pounds copper, 8.9 million pounds lead, 13.9 million pounds cobalt, 208,000 pounds zinc, and 37,000 tons fluorite mill feed. Mineral resources are large, diverse, and occur in many deposit types including exhalative, stockwork, disseminated, vein, replacement, sedimentary, skarn, breccia pipe, porphyry, and placer. The largest cobalt resource in the United States occurs in the Blackbird Mining District. Other resources include gold, silver, copper, lead, molybdenum, phosphate, manganese, iron, fluorite, uranium, thorium, rare earth oxides, and barite.