Description

Neptunium Dioxide (NpO₂) is a high-purity, ceramic-grade actinide compound of significant industrial and research importance. Its primary value lies in its application as a target material for the production of Plutonium-238, a critical radioisotope for radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) used in deep-space exploration. This material is essential for advanced nuclear fuel cycle research, neutron source fabrication, and fundamental studies in actinide chemistry and solid-state physics within specialized government, academic, and energy-sector laboratories.

Application

• Target Material for Pu-238 Production: Serves as the precursor in reactors for generating Plutonium-238, a vital heat source for spacecraft power systems (RTGs).
• Advanced Nuclear Fuel Research: Used in studies of mixed oxide (MOX) and inert matrix fuels for next-generation reactor systems and transmutation of minor actinides.
• Neutron Source Fabrication: Employed in the production of calibrated neutron sources for well-logging, reactor start-up, and scientific instrumentation.
• Actinide Chemistry & Physics: A key compound for fundamental research into the electronic structure, magnetic properties, and solid-state behavior of transuranic elements.
• Reference and Calibration Standards: Utilized in analytical chemistry and spectroscopy as a certified reference material for method validation and instrument calibration.
• Ceramic and Coating Development: Investigated for use in specialized ceramic composites and protective coatings due to its high melting point and stability.

Basic Information

Product Name	Neptunium Dioxide
CAS No.	12035-79-9
Molecular Formula	NpO₂
Molecular Weight	269.00 g/mol
Synonyms	Neptunium(IV) Oxide; Neptunium Oxide; Dineptunium Tetroxide; Neptunia; NpO₂; Neptunium Dioxide Powder; Actinide Dioxide (Np)
EINECS	Contact for details

Quality Control

Our Neptunium Dioxide is produced and handled under strict quality assurance protocols in specialized facilities. Each batch is characterized for critical parameters including isotopic composition, chemical purity, and specific activity to ensure consistency for research and production applications. A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) is provided, detailing results from techniques such as gamma spectrometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). We adhere to the stringent material control standards required for nuclear-related compounds.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Due to its nature as a light-sensitive and easily oxidized (store under inert atmosphere) material, long-term storage should be in a sealed container under an inert atmosphere (e.g., argon) within a designated radiological facility. Store at controlled room temperature (15-25°C) in a dry, dedicated area with appropriate shielding and in compliance with all local and international regulations for radioactive materials.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	Brown to black crystalline powder
Identification (XRD)	Conforms to NpO₂ reference pattern
Assay (NpO₂)	≥ 99.0% (on anhydrous basis)
Isotopic Composition (Np-237)	≥ 99.5%
Specific Activity	~2.5 x 10⁵ Bq/g (Contact for exact value)
Loss on Ignition (LOI)	≤ 1.0 %
Particle Size (D50)	Customizable (1-50 µm typical)
Trace Metallic Impurities	≤ 1000 ppm total

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.