Missions

The nuclear fuel cycle consists of front-end steps that prepare uranium for use in nuclear reactors, for mining ores containing mostly 238U to 235U rich enriched fuels.
One of the steps is the synthesis of uranium hexafluoride, UF6, in the Philippe Coste conversion plant located in the Tricastin nuclear site. This compound is critical in enrichment process since it enables 235U fuel enrichment by centrifugation, since it is gaseous at low temperature (56°C).
During the production of UF6, intermediate compounds can be created, limiting the production yield of the nuclear fuel. It is then critical to understand the nature of these compounds and their physical and chemical properties in order to hinder their presence.
Goal of the project:
• Identification of the intermediate species
• Understanding their synthesis mechanisms and parameters during the fuel cycle
• Presenting a process-friendly solution for their removal of the fuel cycle
This project is a collaboration between ICCF and ORANO
Scientific and broader knowledge which will be developed:
• Knowledge of the front-end of the nuclear fuel cycle
• Knowledge of uranium and fluorine chemistry
• Ability to use multiple material characterization techniques (XRD, NMR, EPR, IR and Raman spectroscopies…)
• Intellectual rigor and organisation are needed, as well as good laboratory practices, especially for nuclear material handling.
• Oral and written reports will be expected

Activités

The objectives of this research topic are multiple:
- Identification of the origin of nitrosyl hexafluorouranate NOUF6 and its derivatives
- Understanding their formation mechanism in the manufacturing process of UF6
- Synthesis and characterization of nitrosyl hexafluorouranate NOUF6 and its derivatives
- Writing of bibliographic report and publications following the results.

Compétences

You have a PhD in inorganic chemistry or equivalent and possess the following technical skills:
• Knowledge of uranium and fluorine chemistry
• Experience in gas handling is recommended
• Ability to combine characterization data from various analytical techniques (XRD, IR and UV spectroscopy, NMR, etc.)
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in French and English
In addition, you possess the following qualities:
• You demonstrate a high degree of autonomy, scientific rigor, and intellectual curiosity
• You have strong analytical skills and are proactive in proposing solutions
• You are able to network effectively with academic and industrial partners
• You are capable of significant involvement in an innovative project

Contexte de travail

The work will be carried out at the Clermont-Ferrand Institute of Chemistry (ICCF – UMR CNRS 6296), a leading research laboratory renowned for its scientific excellence and multidisciplinary approach to chemistry. The ICCF has around 120 permanent staff and offers a stimulating research environment that encourages scientific exchange and collaboration.

The project is part of the Fluorine and Fluorinated Materials theme of the Inorganic Materials (MI) team. The postdoctoral researcher will work in a high-level scientific environment and will have access to all of the team's experimental platforms and state-of-the-art equipment, enabling the development of ambitious and innovative research work. Then ask the SRH to validate it.

Contraintes et risques

Main risks are associated with fluorine laboratory risks and nuclear material radioprotection.