Westinghouse Electric Corporation

Peter M Castle

James D Smith

D Colin Phillips

Lymperios N Yannopoulos

George G Sweeney

A method is disclosed of immobilizing actinide metal oxide ions. A liquid composition is prepared of the actinide metal oxide ions and a monomer which is capable during electropolymerization of complexing with the actinide metal ions. An optional polar solvent may be included in the composition if it is necessary to dissolve a solid monomer. The monomer is then electropolymerized to form a polymeric complex with the actinide metal oxide ion. The polymeric complex can be separated from the remainder of the liquid composition by the addition of a non-solvent for the polymeric complex which results in its precipitation. Vinylimidazoles have been found to be suitable monomers for use in this process.

Immobilization of actinides by electropolymerization

A method is disclosed for preparing a silicon carbide-coated substrate without subjecting the substrate to unnecessary thermal stress. A coating of a silicon carbide precursor polymer is placed on a substrate and the coating is subjected to a laser beam of sufficient energy to raise the temperature of the coating in the area of impingement of the laser beam to approximately 1200.degree. C. to 1600.degree. C. until the coating is converted into a silicon carbide ceramic material. The area of laser beam impingement is located in an inert atmosphere or vacuum while the reaction is taking place.

Method for making silicon carbide coatings

An initiator-free composition is prepared of an ethylenically unsaturated monomer and the inhibitor parabenzoquinone or hydroquinone. The composition is irradiated with light having a wavelength within the absorption spectrum of the inhibitor, other than ultraviolet. The light causes the inhibitor to produce a reactive species which initiates polymerization.

Photopolymerization of ethylenically unsaturated monomers

Halogenated acetylenic compounds are prepared by irradiating a mixture of a reactant and a sensitizer with coherent light. The reactant has the general formula R--C.sub.2 HX.sub.4, R--C.sub.2 H.sub.2 X.sub.3, or R--C.sub.2 HX.sub.2 where X is Cl, Br, or I, and R is H or another non-interfering group. The sensitizer has a higher thermal activation energy for its lowest energy dissociation reaction than does any part of said reactant.

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Penn Hills, PA, United States of America

Peter M Castle