In an attempt to detect a possible influence of the atomic electrons on the radioactive decay constant of Be{sup 7} they have measured {lambda}{sub Be}-{lambda}{sub BeO} and found (-3.0 {+-} 1.8) 10{sup -4} {lambda}{sub Be}. They describe also a method to measure mean lives of radioactive substances in a time short compared with the mean life.

The authors have produced and identified two new series of alpha-particle emitting radioactive elements; one is a 'collateral' branch of the actinium (4n + 3) radioactive family and the other is collateral to the thorium (4n) family. The series are of considerable interest in that they are the first whose early members lie on the neutron deficient side of beta stability. They have been produced in high yield of irradiation of thorium with deuterons of energy about {sup 80}Mev in the Berkeley 184-inch cyclotron. So far as the present observations are concerned both of these series begin with isotopes of protactinium (atomic number 91), although progenitors with higher atomic numbers are to be expected and will possibly be produced and identified. These protactinium isotopes are Pa{sup 227} and Pa{sup 228} formed by d,7n and d,6n reactions respectively.

None

This is a progress report from Brookhaven National Laboratory for the period July 1 through December 31, 1949.

None

None

None

None

None

The objective of this report is to investigate the feasibility of obtaining uranium from the carnotite sludge in such a form as o permit its use in the brown oxide purification process.

None

This document is a de-classified July 1948 General Chemistry Progress Report from Monsanto Chemical`s Mound facility. Detailed discussions of numerous studies of Postum compounds are included in this report, and experimental data on various chemical and physical properties of these compounds are given.

Various biochemical effects of radiation have been studied in 10 patients given total body x-ray in total doses of 75 to 310 r (skin), in 5 patients given 20 to 36 mc. P{sup 32}, and in 5 project personnel accidentally exposed to excessive doses of external radiations. Similar studies have also been made of several hundred Plutonium Project personnel exposed in most instances to relatively small amounts of uranium, lead and other metals, and to chemicals and radioactive sources. These studies included the investigation of liver function, of white blood cell chemistry, and of various urinary constituents such as coproporphyrin, urorosein and other pigments, urobilinogen, ``corticosteroid-like`` substances, catalase, and uranium. Definitely excessive exposures resulted in various abnormalities in the above tests. With the exception of urinary uranium analysis none of them are specific in indicating overexposure to either radiation, metals, or chemicals. When interpreted in the light of the exposure and medical history, however, it is felt that they may aid in the clinical interpretation of relatively marked overexposure at least. In addition, they may afford further insight into the nature of radiation effects. The literature on the biochemical effects of radiation is reviewed briefly, and certain suggestions are offered …

The following items of equipment have been completed: Two Scaler Multipliers, EO-18 and EO-338, undergoing test and adjustment. One Thyratron Heater Control for Scioto Laboratory. One Pilot model switch box for Group 16 hoods at Scioto Laboratory. One Pilot model patch box used as auxiliary to the present switch boxes. Installation of electronic equipment and sorting and cataloguing of stock at Scioto Laboratory has been started. The Y Section induction heaters have been installed electrically. With the present setup in the WD Building, it has been necessary to recycle all the solution which passes through the pH chamber on the clariflocculators. Sufficient tests have been run on the Berkeley Decimal scaler to indicate that, by using a pre-emplifier, it will be a satisfactory replacement for the scaler multiplier. Reworking of B-wall tubes has been held up pending the delivery of neon gas. Further investigations have been made on the frequency compensated constant voltage Sola transformers. Three automatic potential controllers have been modified in accordance with investigations of Group 10. The program of preventative maintenance on automatic potential controllers has resulted in a marked reduction of service calls and down-time for the operating group.

None

None

None

The initial phase of the pressure drop testing program on proposed fuel element design shapes for the high-temperature, gas-cooled power reactor, has been completed with the compilation of pressure drop data for the flatplate riveted-assembly type of unit, the ribbed cylinder type, the single bent-plate type both with and without rivets, the 13 hexagon-6 pentagon type, and the 7-hole graphite type. This phase of the program was conducted for the purpose of determining the equivalent skin-friction pressure drop factor for composite fuel element crosssections, and for determining the joint loss factors for varying degrees of misalignment of the fuel units in the fuel channels of the pile. (auth)

None

None

None

This document is a declassified July 1948 Progress Report on Process Research at Monsanto Chemical`s Mound facility. Areas discussed are: (1) treatment of hot solid wastes, and (2) treatment of hot liquid wastes. Chemical aspects of these processes are noted.