Synthesis of assymmetrical bipyridines for the selective separation of americium

Background and motivation

Safe storage of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) in geological repositories requires reducing the long-term heat load of the waste. Plutonium (Pu) and americium (Am) are key contributors to long-term heat emission and radiotoxicity. Their separation is also essential in strategies aiming at a closed nuclear fuel cycle. While uranium and plutonium are separated industrially today (PUREX), the selective separation of americium from the remaining raffinate is still challenging and remains a priority in advanced partitioning research.

Aim of the project

This thesis focuses on the organic synthesis of new hydrophilic ligands designed for the AmSel process, with improved selectivity for Am(III). The ligands should comply with the CHON principle (containing only C, H, O, and N), which is advantageous because CHON-only molecules can be fully converted into gaseous products upon incineration, reducing secondary waste.