Removal of Kr, Xe, and C

In the standard process using air (about 480°C and 4 h processing time), about half of the 14C is volatilized, and minor fractions of fission products are volatilized, including about 5% of krypton and xenon; 1% of iodine and bromine; and ~0.2% of the ruthenium, antimony, and cesium. With higher temperatures and longer reaction times, larger fractions of the noble gases are released — up to 60% of the krypton at 750°C in 8-10 h.10 Using an oxygen-enriched atmosphere enhances the release of 14C to nearly 100%. Higher temperatures, oxidation to UO3, repeated cycles of oxidation — reduction, and mechanical agitation will enhance the release.