High Pu-240-content plutonium Chemical Processing cost estimates

In response to an inquiry by Euratom, estimates of the costs for the production of 85 kg of 15% Pu-240 metal and for the production of 15 kg of 25% Pu-240 oxide at HAPO were recently requested by the Atomic Energy Commission. In connection with this inquiry, comments were requested regarding the possibility of establishing and measuring product plutonium oxide ``sinterability`` parameters. This report presents estimates of the costs for separations processing by the Chemical Processing Department for the cases of interest. Process ground rules and any necessary assumptions are explained. In addition, the problems of measuring oxide ``sinterability`` are briefly discussed. Highlights of this study were previously transmitted to the Irradiation Processing Department for incorporation in a formal reply to the original Commission request. Subsequently, some adjustments in ground rules have caused cost changes which are included in this report.