Abstract: A method of dissolving nuclear material from a relatively long length cut from a nuclear fuel cartridge and having a liquid permeable passageway extending from one end to the other end of the cut length. The method comprises holding the cut length upright in a dissolvent for the nuclear material in the cut length, so that gas generated by the dissolvent in reacting with the nuclear material produces an effect analogous to that of an air lift pump and circulates the dissolvent through the passageway.

Abstract: A nuclear fuel cartridge comprises a sheath, and nuclear material inside the sheath. A continuous liquid permeable passageway extends from one end of the nuclear material to the other, and an annular end member is disposed at each end of the nuclear material. Inner spacing members also of annular form may be disposed in intermediate positions along the sheath between portions of the nuclear material.

Abstract: Apparatus for agitating and circulating a liquid 20 comprising a vessel having two upright chambers 10, 12 and two vertically displaced ducts 14, 18 connecting the chambers 10, 12. In use of the apparatus, a steady flow of gas into the top of one chamber 10 provides both an oscillation and a circulation of the liquid 20 in the apparatus, as the gas is periodically vented through the upper duct 18.The apparatus has one application in the dissolution of material from nuclear fuel pins during reprocessing.

Abstract: A method of leaching a material from a cavity having a closed or a partially closed top. The method consists of subjecting the liquid to a number of pressure cycles, each pressure cycle involving a decrease in pressure to cause boiling of the liquid, followed by a rise in pressure to inhibit the boiling. The method may include the step of heating the liquid to a temperature near to its boiling point.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for transporting items such as chopped nuclear fuel pins from a receiving station to a discharge station. The apparatus contains a liquid for transporting the items in an inlet duct which extends downwardly from the receiving station to a region where it is joined to an outlet duct which extends upwardly to the discharge station.The region is connected to a source capable of applying a pressure pulse to the liquid so as to displace the liquid upwardly in at least the outlet duct and thereby transport the items through the apparatus.At least two apparatus may be connected together in series relationship to provide a plant for the transport of the items through the plant.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting the deposition of scale from saline water having bicarbonate alkalinity on to heat exchanger surfaces in a saline water evaporation plant comprises adding a mineral acid to neutralize part, but not all, of the bicarbonate alkalinity, and also adding a scale inhibiting additive to the saline water.