Uranium is an actinide element with an atomic number of 92. It is a silvery-grey metal that is hard, dense, malleable, ductile and radioactive.
Applications
The worldwide demand for alternative energy sources has renewed interest in uranium extraction. Uranium is a key element in the nuclear industry.
Challenges
Uranium complexes can be found in a number of different types of orebodies. Given the varying nature of these deposits, a wide range of technologies is required in order to most efficiently extract from the various types of uranium ore.
Solutions
Resin technology is used to extract uranium.
Extraction from Aqueous Streams
There are two principal methods of ore processing:
- Extraction from the Ground: This involves underground mines or open pits, followed by crushing, milling, and leaching.
- In Situ Treatment: Also known as In Situ Leach (ISL) or In Situ Recovery (ISR), this technique involves dissolving uranium directly from the ore body while it remains underground.
The choice of ion exchange contactor is dependent on the solids content of the feed material. This, in turn, dictates the optimum particle size distribution of the resin
The lixiviant of choice depends on several factors, including the grade and geology of the ore. The main routes are:
- Sulfuric acid leach
- Bicarbonate leach
- Carbonate leach
For all these various operating conditions and applications, Ecolab’s extensive experience in the uranium industry has allowed the development of a portfolio of ion exchange resins.
Purolite™ Puromet™ MTA8000PPSO4 is suitable for fluidized bed systems, optimizing uranium recovery by minimizing corrosive chlorides.
Purolite Puromet MTA6002PF and
Purolite Puromet MTA6002PF are gel-type strong base anion resins used for extracting uranyl sulfate and carbonate complexes from various leaching processes, suitable for fixed bed configurations. Resin-in-pulp (RIP) technology, including
Purolite Puromet MTA5014SO4 and
Purolite Puromet MTA6601, allows direct uranium recovery from leached pulp, while PGW6002E is used for groundwater remediation and potable water applications.
For more information, visit
Ion Exchange Resin for Uranium Removal.
