The following progress report was compiled by the research and development division of the zirconium pilot plant. This report discusses two iodination and deposition runs that were completed as of August 20, 1951, as well as the third iodination run that uses a vaporizer condenser that condenses approximately 40 pounds of zirconium iodide.

From introduction: Mapping, sampling, and radiometric reconnaissance of the uranium-bearing deposits in the Laramie formation in the vicinity of the Old Leyden coal mine, sec. 28, T. 2 S., R. 71 W., Jefferson County, Colorado (fig. 1), was completed August 10, 1951. Topographic and geologic maps were made of areas approximately 6,000 feet by 3,000 feet (scale 1:2h00), and 1,200 feet by 800 feet (scale 1:600). Underground workings at three clay mines and at the Old Leyden mine were also mapped. With the exception of the 1:600 map, which accompanies this report, these maps will be transmitted later with a more comprehensive report.

Abstract: Results of detailed mapping of the Salt Wash sandstone member of the Morrison formation in the Uravan and Gateway districts, Montrose and Mesa Counties, Colo., suggest that large areas containing both lenticular bedding in the ore-bearing sandstone and persistently altered mudstone beneath the sandstone are generally favorable for carnotite deposits.

From introduction: "This paper employs a multigroup method similar to that of J. S. Story, AERE-TR-177 to calculate, for cylindrical geometry, that heat energy source density in graphite due to absorption and Compton scattering of those gammas produced by neutron capture in a water filled cadmium control rod."

From purpose and scope: Diamond drill exploration of the Lukachukai district was undertaken to find minable bodies of uranium ore and to determine whether sufficient reserves were present to warrant construction of a local mill. A minimum of 30,000 feet and a maximum of 50,000 feet of drilling were assigned to block out ore in the discovery area, Mesa I (pl. 1.). It was anticipated that some of the footage might be used to test Mesa II should the area become accessible. With access to Mesas II and IV subsequently provided by roads constructed by F. A. Sitton, Inc., and access to Mesa III furnished by a road constructed by the Atomic Energy Commission, the area available for drilling was eventually increased by some three and a half times. With no increase in allotted footage, the hole density was correspondingly decreased,

Report issued by the U.S. Bureau of Mines on the magnetic base stations located in Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The report evaluates the usefulness of the stations for calibration of certain instruments. This report contains tables, graphs, maps, and illustrations.

Report issued by the U.S. Bureau of Mines on the known recoverable reserves of coking coal in Floyd County, Kentucky. The investigation includes a study on the properties of coal and coal blends found in the area. This report contains maps and tables.

This report describes an improved infrared absorption method to analyze aqueous samples and TBP after extraction. The method described in the following pages is the carbon tetrachloride extraction method.

Abstract: "A small low impedance flux monitoring device has been built which utilizes the heating (and consequent chance in resistance) of a boron coated platinum wire. Feasibility tests in the Argonne-GP-3 reactor indicate that it may develop into a wide range instrument, particularly useful at high flux levels. Design and constructional details of the bolometer and its associated circuits are given. The circuitry is somewhat unique since it is in effect an all electronic self-balancing bridge. Future lines of research are suggested to solve some of the remaining problems."

Map...

From introduction: "This conference represents the first attempt by a project-wide group of scientists and engineers to collaborate on the problem associated with the planning and design of "Hot" Laboratories. The idea, as originally conceived by Dr. W. E. Winsche, was to discuss some general and perhaps some specific aspects of "Hot" Laboratory design with a small group of interests individuals from various sites."

Monthly report of the U.S. Geological Survey's trace element investigations including an outline of field work, laboratory work, and staff activities that have been completed or are in process.

Discussing a geological reconnaissance of the King Tut Mesa, East Carrizo District.

Bismuth analytical methods were investigated for the purpose of selecting procedures which are satisfactory for the analysis of solutions containing plutonium and bismuth. The gravimetric procedure which is recommended for samples containing these two elements includes removal of the plutonium by peroxide precipitation, separation of the bismuth by precipitation with sodium carbonate, and final ignition of the bismuth as a phosphate. Necessary equipment and experimental technique are described. In the analysis of eight known samples by the recommended method, the average recovery of bismuth was 99.76 percent, with a standard deviation of 0.22 percent. The known samples contained about 35 mg of bismuth and 25 mg of plutonium. For similar samples in routine work, the confidence limits at the 95 percent level for the average of triplicated determinations are +- 0.30 percent of the bismuth in the the sample. Other methods investigated and having possible application for some Pu-Bi analysis problems include electrodeposition of bismuth on a mercury cathode and gravimetric analysis with BiCr(CNS)6 as the weighed product.

Determination of cadmium in plutonium-cadmium solutions was successfully accomplished by separating the plutonium as an insoluble peroxide, evaporating the solution containing the cadmium, and weighing the latter as a sulfate. with 5 t0 20 mg of cadmium and similar amounts of plutonium, the 95% confidence limits for the average of triplicate determinations was to be +- 0.3 percent of the cadmium in the sample. When samples contained as little as 5 mg of cadmium, it was necessary to correct the weight of cadmium sulfate with a carefully determined reagent blank which originated mainly from the action of hydrogen peroxide on glass containers.

Report documenting the suitability of Wyoming and Idaho for plant locations to produce synthetic liquid fuels, based on raw materials, water sources, and local interest.

A report regarding Preliminary reserve statement 17, reserve blocks C and D, Long Park area, Montrose County, Colorado

Leaching tests were run on two samples from the Grants area in New Mexico. Uranium extractions of 94 per cent were obtained by leaching Sample 6-1 with solutions containing 240 lbs. of Na2CO3 and 60 lbs. of NaHCO3 per ton and by leaching Sample 6-2 with 270 lbs. of Na2CO3 and 180 lbs. of NaHCO3 per ton. Cyclic tests were completed using caustic precipitation of the leach liquor.

Structural map of the King Tutt Mesa, East Carrizo District, in New Mexico produced for the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission's mining operations. Scale 1:24,000