The Relationship Between Ion Exchange Resin Properties and Uranium Recovery in Fluidized Bed Columns

Abstract

ABSTRACT The use of ion exchange resins for the concentration and recovery of uranium from low grade solutions is a recognized process which has been practiced for many years. The method of application has generally been downflow through fixed beds. Such a system resembles a water filter and consequently any suspended matter in the feed will be filtered out resulting in high pressure drops, channeling, inefficient operation, etc. Many uranium ores produce very fine particles or slimes which are difficult and costly to separate from the leach liquor. Attention has been given to methods that would minimize or eliminate the need for solution clarification and thus obviate the considerable capital and operating expense involved in clarification. The most recent method developed for recovery of uranium from unclarified solutions is the use of fluidized bed contactors. In a fluidized bed contactor, the feed solution is passed upflow expanding the resin into a fluidized state. The moving and fluidized particles create a "choke" effect upon the rising liquid and a steady state turbulence is achieved.