The high-temperature behavior of americium oxides: Fundamental and technological aspects

Oxides are one of the primary compounds of the actinide elements but many have not been characterized thoroughly at higher temperatures. Americium occupies a pivotal position in the series with regard to electronic nature, technological applications, etc. and only limited data are available for americium oxides above 1400 K. Its oxide chemistry and phase behaviors cannot be readily extrapolated from those of lanthanide oxides. Studies of its oxides have shown that underlying roles played by the elements f-electrons control the oxide`s vaporization/decomposition behavior in addition to oxide stoichiometry. The high-temperature chemistry of americium and its oxides arc important in existing or potential technologies in which they are encountered. Several fundamental and technological aspects of the behavior and stability of americium oxides at elevated temperatures will be identified and discussed.