Abstract
AbstractAny solvent extraction system must ultimately involve mixing and phase separation. The mixer‐settler, which is the chief subject of this paper, has several advantages. It can be readily scaled up to handle large flow rates, and there is a great deal of practical experience in using it. There are also a number of areas where it can be modified to give improved operation. The mixer is an ideal area to apply the knowledge of chemical reactor fundamentals. The stage efficiencies to which we commonly refer can also be viewed primarily as mixer efficiencies. It would be a logical matter to consider increasing the degree of chemical reaction by using mixers in series within each stage. The physical phenomena taking place within the settler become clear with investigation. The assumption that plug flow predominates in any settler is probably at variance with actual facts. The control of the flow of the dispersion in the settler is a factor which should serve to make settlers smaller and more efficient. Solvent extraction equipment is undergoing constant scrutiny and improvement. The conventional mixer still needs additional basic studies, but it may some day be replaced by some other basic method of imparting mechanical energy and flow. It is likely that the gravity settler may be replaced by a device using a more intense force field, such as electrostatic or centrifugal forces.
Published Version
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