METAL EXTRACTION PROCESS
An improved method for extracting uranium from aqueous solutions by solvent extraction is presented. A difficulty encountered in solvent extraction operations using an organic extractant (e.g., tributyl phosphate dissolved in kerosene or carbon tetrachloride) is that emulsions sometimes form, and phase separation is difficult or impossible. This difficulty is overcome by dissolving the organic extractant in a molten wax which is a solid at operating temperatures. After cooling, the wax which now contains the extractant, is broken into small particles (preferably flakes) and this wax complex'' is used to contact the uranium bearing solutions and extract the metal therefrom. Microcrystalline petroleum wax and certain ethylene polymers have been found suitable for this purpose.
- Research Organization:
- Originating Research Org. not identified
- NSA Number:
- NSA-12-006978
- Assignee:
- U.S. Atomic Energy Commission
- Patent Number(s):
- US 2812233
- OSTI ID:
- 4329545
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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