Abstract
The methods of preparation, stability in solution and in the solid state, and composition of the crystalline hydrates of uranyl and uranium(IV) orthophosphates and condensed phosphates have been reviewed. The structures of these compounds have been discussed; they are three-dimensional polymers with a uranyl–phosphate framework.
The polymerisation of the phosphate anion on thermal decomposition has been discussed. Condensed uranyl polyphosphates are unstable when kept, and are capable of undergoing dehydration, the extent of which increases with increase in the length of the phosphate chain and increase in the uranium concentration.
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