Equations were derived by strain-energy methods for analyzing the stress and deflection in the boiler fuel element boxes used in the Pathfinder nuclear reactor. These boxes are of two types, both constructed of Zircaloy lI. One box is approximately 5 in. sq. The second is approximately 10 1/2 in. sq divided internally into four compartments (5 in. sq) by a cruciform control-rod guide structure. Stress and deflection in the box walls are caused by pressure differences across the walls. The equations were verified by testing an aluminum model of the single-element box and a Plexiglas model of the four-element box. There was less than 10% difference between theoretical and measured values for the maximum stress and deflection, and therefore, use of the equations for designing the Pathfinder fuel element boxes is justified. (auth)

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The formation constants of the RChOH/sup -/ species, formed by interaction of individual rare-earth nitrilotriacetate species and KOH at 25 deg C and an ionic strength of 0.1 were determined by the potentiometric method, i.e., computed from the pH values of equilibrium mixtures containing varying proportions of rare-earth complex and base. The relations of these constants to the ion-exchange separation of rare earths at high pH were discussed. (auth)