Extraction performance of monoamide extractants in pulsed columns
Abstract
Process development approach adopted in CEA, based on modelling studies, includes the determination of mass transfer efficiency of the contactors used to perform the different process operations. For monoamide based solvents, tests of several process operations as uranium extraction and back extraction, nitric acid stripping from a uranium loaded solvent were performed in laboratory scale pulsed columns of different heights. The recorded concentration profiles of the species of interest (uranium, nitric acid, ..) were simulated using the PAREX code. Mass transfer kinetics of the species of interest realized with that extractant system permit a very good simulation of the concentration profiles. These results will permit to give the ground data to design the process operation in industrial scale contactors, and will be a guide for further development to enhance if necessary the transfer efficiency of the contactor.