Yellowcake

Yellowcake (03010301)

U.S. uranium concentrate (U3O8) production in 1950 through 2021 (52242826664)

Yellowcake-exhibit-peterborough.jpg

Yellowcake is a type of uranium concentrate powder obtained from leach solutions, in an intermediate step in the processing of uranium ores. It is a step in the uranium processing sequence following mining and milling and before fuel fabrication or uranium enrichment.

Production

Yellowcake is produced by various extraction and refining methods, depending on the type of ore. The most common method is acid leaching, where the ore is treated with sulfuric acid to dissolve the uranium, which is then precipitated from the solution. Another method is alkaline leaching, which uses sodium carbonate or bicarbonate solutions.

Composition

The composition of yellowcake can vary, but it typically contains 70-90% uranium oxide (U3O8). The color of yellowcake can range from yellow to dark green, depending on the drying temperature and the presence of impurities.

Uses

Yellowcake is primarily used as a precursor for nuclear fuel production. It is transported to a conversion facility where it is transformed into uranium hexafluoride (UF6) for the uranium enrichment process. Enriched uranium is then fabricated into fuel rods for use in nuclear reactors.

Health and Safety

Handling yellowcake requires precautions due to its radioactive nature. Workers in uranium mills and processing plants must follow strict safety protocols to minimize exposure to radiation and prevent contamination.

History

The term "yellowcake" originated from the early production methods, which yielded a bright yellow powder. Modern production techniques can result in a variety of colors, but the name has persisted.

See also

• Uranium mining
• Nuclear fuel cycle
• Uranium enrichment
• Nuclear reactor
• Radioactive waste