Abstract
An effective elution technique has been developed for recovering uranium from ion exchange resins loaded in the carbonate leaching process. The procedure employs direct elution with acid. In comparison with conventional base elution, the procedure yields eluate of higher uranium concentration, results in a more complete elution, keeps the performance of the ion exchange resin at the fresh stage, reduces acid consumption, eliminates carbonate consumption, and reduces waste for disposal. The technique has been successfully demonstrated in the field and patented. It lends itself to commercialization.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Merritt, R.C., “The Extractive Metallurgy of Uranium,” Colorado School of Mines Research Institute, Golden, CO, p. 161.
Treybal, R.E., 1967, Mass Transfer Operations, 2nd ed., McGraw-Hill, New York.
Urgell, M. et al., 1958, “Extraction of Uranium from Solution of Sodium Carbonate by Means of Anionic Exchange with Dowex I Resin.” Proceedings, Vol. 3, 2nd United Nations International Conference on the Peaceful Use of Atomic Energy, Geneva, pp. 444–464.
Yan, T.Y., 1983, “Direct Acid Elution of Anionic Exchange Resins for Recovery of Uranium,” US Patent 4,423,008, Dec. 27.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
M&MP paper 87–635. Discussion of this paper must be submitted, in duplicate, prior to Jan. 31, 1989.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Yan, T.Y. Direct acid elution of anionic exchange resins for uranium recovery. Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration 5, 232–236 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03402516
Received:
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03402516