Abstract
Abstract Sulfur isotopes were separated in 1.07 and 1.50-m experimental packed distillation columns at cryogenic temperatures under total reflux. The 32S/34S ratio at column top was as much as 19% different from the bottom ratio. The 32S/33S separations were the square root of 32S/34S separations. Typical relative volatilities of 32S/34S are 1.0023 for H2S, 0.9978 for SF4, 0.9985 for SF6, 1.0006 for COS, and 1.0011 for CH3SH. A 12C/13C volatility of 0.9982 was also seen in COS. Sulfur separations in SF4 and SF6 and the carbon separation in COS are reverse isotope effects. Distillation is a feasible method for sulfur isotope separation. Hydrogen sulfide is the best candidate compound for a practical sulfur isotope separation. Existing distillation columns could economically produce as much as 50 kg/yr of contained 34S at 15% enrichment. Smaller amounts of more highly enriched isotopes could also be produced.
Published Version
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