Performance comparison of the optimized k-section squared-off cascades for enrichment of 124Te using two meta-heuristic paradigms

Abstract

Comparing the performance of square-off cascades with different number of sections and determining the extent of their differences in optimal parameters, can identify more alternatives from an economical point of view by reducing the cost of the plant and increasing the incomes due to sales of more products. In this way, this study investigated the performance of optimum square, 2-section squared-off, and 3-section squared-off cascades in the separation of 124Te to 85% concentration level. The optimization was performed with the Particle swarm optimization and Antlion optimization algorithms using an objective function concentrated on maximizing the division factor, D, the total recovery factor, R, and the quantity of total product to be produced. The results obtained for cascades with 160 centrifuges showed that the 3-section squared-off cascade is more efficient than its 2-section counterpart, and both of them have outperformed the square cascade and have a higher recovery factor. It was also shown that PSO results are superior to ALO and can guarantee a better answer to the problem. The results of this study can be a good road map for operational separation of the desired isotope as well as isotopes of other elements.