Uranium recovery from low-level aqueous sources. [76 references]

摘要: The aqueous sources of soluble uranium were surveyed and evaluated in terms the geochemical cycle an effort to identify potential unexploited resources. Freshwater appeared be too low content merit consideration, while seawater, although very dilute (approx. 3.3 ppB), contains approx. 4 x 10/sup 9/ metric tons all world's oceans. A literature review recent publications patents concerning recovery from seawater was conducted. Considerable experimental work is currently under way Japan; less being done European countries. An assessment current state technology presented this report. Repeated screening programs have identified hydrous titanium oxide as most promising candidate absorbent. However, some its properties such distribution coefficient, selectivity, loading, possibly stability appear render use inadequate a practical system. Also, various assessments energy efficiency pumped or tidal power schemes for contacting sorbent are major disagreement. Needed future research development tasks discussed. fundamental program greatly improve would required permit seawater. Major unresolved engineeringmore » aspects systems also discussed.« less