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Uranium chemistry

Man alongside fluorine electrolysis cells

The Chemistry business unit (BU) is involved at various stages in the nuclear fuel cycle. On the front end, its main activity is the conversion of natural uranium, supplied by the Mining business group, into uranium hexafluoride, a precondition for uranium enrichment. The BU's know-how has also allowed it to develop activities in non-nuclear chemistry. On the back end, it plays a part in the recycling of uranium from used fuel.

Technician near a flame reactor in a plant for conversion of UF4 into UF6

The conversion of natural uranium into uranium hexafluoride

The conversion of natural uranium into uranium hexafluoride takes place in 2 stages. The Chemistry business unit is a world leader in this market.

Storage tanks for oxygenated water for the conversion of uranyl nitrate

Nuclear chemistry in the front-end and back-end fuel cycle

The transformation of depleted uranium and the recycling of the uranium recovered from used fuel round out AREVA's nuclear chemistry offer.

Fluorine electrolysis cells

Non-nuclear chemistry, towards the technology markets

AREVA produces fluorine for its uranium conversion activity. Its expertise with fluorine derivatives has allowed it to develop a parallel offer.

diaporama
Uranium chemistry, a key stage in the nuclear fuel cycle

Uranium chemistry, a key stage in the nuclear fuel cycle

The chemical treatment of uranium is a mandatory stage in the nuclear fuel cycle, at both its front and back ends. It primarily comprises converting the mined natural uranium ore into UF6 (uranium hexafluoride), a preliminary process before uranium enrichment.