Separation of UO22+ and F- by γ-Alumina from Aqueous Solutions Containing NO3- and F-

In this research, separation of fluoride and uranyl ions from high content nitrate and fluoride solution, by γ-Alumina in moving and fixed bed methods, has been studied. In this investigation, the effect of some principal parameters such as, alumina weight, its particle size, and pH on the efficiency of separation of these ions from uranium solution, has been optimized. In the moving bed process, in fact, for decreasing pH, the best and economical condition for uranium extraction by solvent extraction process with TBP has been made available, and therefore it leads to save 800m3 HNO3 as a good advantage. In addition, in the fixed bed process, at an optimum pH, the concentration of uranyl and fluoride ions in the final raffinate decreased for uranium in a range of 50 ppb to 1.3 mg/L, and 170 ppb for fluoride. The effect of adsorption parameters on desorption of these ions was investigated and optimized by sodium carbonate solution. Uranium desorption from the column by sulfuric and nitric acid and sodium carbonate solution was carried out easily, and by sulfuric and sodium carbonate solution 99% recovery was obtained.