From abstract: The temperature of molten uranium was measured indirectly by an infrared radiation pyrometer. The emissivities of graphite and molten uranium were determined, and a series of equations correlating pyrometer readings with melt temperatures was derived.

The purpose of this study was to determine the maximum forces that can be imposed by the graphite moderator on prospective VSR channel sleeves. In order to do this, both the origins and modes of transmission of the forces were determined. Forces in the moderator stack that are capable of acting on a block or group of blocks may originate from any of the following primary effects: Contraction of graphite due to irradiation; thermal expansion of graphite; frictional resistance to motion; resistance from keys; gravity; and other.

Progress is reported on the thorium fuel cycle development under two topics: sol-gel process development and fabrication and material development. Separate abstracts were prepared for the two topics. (M.C.G.)

The use of anion exchange for final Pu purification in the Redox facility requires the adjustment of Pa(VI) to Pu(IV). Two methods of reduction were investigated: ferrous sulfamate and nitrite. The ferrous sulfamate method was adopted. Data on reduction of Pu(VI) to Pu(IV) and Pu(III) by nitrite are presented. The reduction by nitrite was found to be dependent on nitrite concentration, temperature, acidity, ferric ion concentration, and time, and it is possible to obtain >90% reduction to Pu(HI) by controlling the above conditions. (D.L.C.)

Report from Operation Plumbob regarding an experiment investigating secondary missiles created by blast waves from nuclear detonations of three different yeilds.