Development of new methods for the reduction of UF6

Methods for the preparation of UF₅ are discussed with respect to the formation of β-UF₅. The reduction of UF₆ by HBr in liquid HF /1/ can be used to synthesize pure β-UF₅ even if greater amounts are required.Details of the direct photolysis of UF₆ without scavenger /2/ are presented. In an advanced version a simplified photo-reactor is used which consists of a stainless steel vessel with a diameter of 100 mm and a volume of about 3 liters. UV-light of a 1000 W super high pressure mercury lamp is used to photolyze about 50 g of high purity UF₆ within 12 h, giving pure β-UF₅ in about 90 % yield without intermediately removing the F₂ formed.Two simple new methods have been developed to synthesize β-UF₅. UF₆ is reduced by H₂ in liquid anhydrous HF at room temperature. This reaction which is hindered kinetically at room temperature can be catalyzed by metallic Au which is applied as a foil in the stirred reaction mixture.In addition, it was found that anhydrous HCl catalyzes the reaction, too. 200 mbar of HCl were added, together with 4 bar H₂, to UF₆ in liquid HF, and the reaction mixture was magnetically stirred for 66 hours. β-UF₅ could be obtained in 91 % yield as a very pure product. This latter method is recommended for large scale production of β-UF₅.Reactions of UF₆ with other reducing agents like HCl, SO₂, and CO in liquid HF were studied. These reactions give poor yields or impure products.UF₆ yields with CO and Au in the presence of HF a carbonyl compound of Au with the very high ν_CO at 2205 cm^?1. Analytical and spectroscopic data suggest the formula Au(CO)₂U₂F₁₁.