Molten-Salt Reactor Chemistry

This document summarizes the large program of chemical research and development which led to selection of fuel and coolant compositions for the Molten-Salt Reactor Experiment (MSRE) and for subsequent reactors of this type. Chemical behavior of the LiF-BeF₂-ZrF₄-UF₄ fuel mixture and behavior of fission products during power operation of MSRE are presented. A discussion of the chemical reactions which show promise for recovery of bred ²³³Pa and for removal of fission product poisons from a molten-salt breeder reactor is included.