Anion exchange separation of antimony and the integrated ion exchange process for decontamination of used zircaloy pressure tubes from Indian pressurized heavy water reactors

Abstract

ABSTRACT A two-step ion exchange process has been developed for decontamination of used pressure tube zircaloy, from pressurized heavy water reactors, with respect to 125Sb and 60Co. The steps are: anion exchange separation of Sb (III) and cation exchange separation of Co (II); from Zr (IV). Our earlier results on distribution coefficients, isotherms and kinetic separation of Co were the erecting pillars of the present integrated separation process. Oxidation state of Sb in the feed solution, need for reduction of Sb (V) to Sb (III), the nature and amount of reagents required were investigated. Effect of Zr concentration on uptake of Sb and Co, resin capacity, requirement, column dimensions, and flow rate was evaluated.