Abstract
Electrochemical processes appear to be attractive for treating low level nuclear wastes. The development of a simple divided electrochemical‐cell model operating in a batch mode, used for the reduction of nitrates and nitrites from nuclear wastes, is presented. This model, based on a boundary‐layer approach, is simple and yet encompasses the key features of a previously developed distributed‐parameter model that includes diffusion, migration, and convection as the flux components. Because it dramatically reduces computation time, this boundary‐layer model is well suited for use in a complex interactive flowsheet model and for optimization studies. The boundary‐layer model is used to predict partial current densities, reservoir concentrations, and off‐gas compositions as a function of time. Good agreement between simulated and experimental data (i.e., nitrate and nitrite concentrations and off‐gas compositions) is observed over the course of a batch run. In addition, a comparison with a rigorous distributed‐parameter model is made to illustrate the accuracy and robustness of this model. The results of selected case studies are shown, and a preliminary batch optimization is carried out to show how the model can be used to maximize the destruction of nitrates and nitrites.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have