ASTM C788-03

Standard Specification for Nuclear-Grade Uranyl Nitrate Solution or Crystals

1.1 This specification applies to nuclear-grade aqueous uranyl nitrate solution or crystals not exceeding 5 % ²³⁵U intended for subsequent manufacture into either UF6 (for feed to an enrichment plant) or direct conversion to uranium oxide (for use in reactors).

1.2 This specification is intended to provide the nuclear industry with a general standard for aqueous uranyl nitrate solution or crystals. It recognizes the diversity of manufacturing methods and the processes to which it is subsequently to be subjected. It is therefore anticipated that it may be necessary to include supplementary specification limits by agreement between purchaser and manufacturer. Different limits are appropriate depending on whether or not the uranyl nitrate is to be converted to UF6 for subsequent processing.

1.3 The purpose of this specification is: (a) to define the impurity and uranium isotope limits for commercial standard uranyl nitrate, and (b) to define additional limits for reprocessed uranyl nitrate (or any mixture of reprocessed and commercial standard uranyl nitrate). For such uranyl nitrates, special provisions may need to be made to ensure that no extra hazard arises to the employees, the process equipment, or the environment.

1.4 The scope of this specification does not comprehensively cover all provisions for preventing criticality accidents, for health and safety, or for shipping. Observance of this standard does not relieve the user of the obligation to conform to all international, federal, state and local regulations for processing, shipping, or any other way of using the uranyl nitrate. An example of a U.S. Government Document is the Code of Federal Regulations (latest edition), Title 10, Part 50.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.