CMI establishes 24-stage mixer settler capability for critical material separations

CMI researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight

Innovation
Establishment of a solvent extraction mixer settler system to evaluate separations of critical material ore leachates, including feeds that may contain naturally occurring U and Th isotopes.  

Achievement
A 24-stage MEAB 0.5 L mixer settler system placed inside a ventilated enclosure within a radiological facility has been established and is configured for multistage counter current solvent extraction testing.

Significance and Impact
This laboratory is equipped with a range of analytical instruments, including an inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometer, incubators, centrifuges, rotating wheels, viscometer, titrator, microwave digester, UV-Vis and FT-IR spectrometers.

Hub Target Addressed
Developing and applying scientific tools to accelerate technology maturation.

Image of the mixer settler system installed in a ventilated enclosure within the radiological facility. The controllers are placed on top of the enclosure, and liquid feed/collection containers will be positioned beneath the work surface. The mixer settler units are accessible from all four sides via sliding doors.
Image of the mixer settler system installed in a ventilated enclosure within the radiological facility. The controllers are placed on top of the enclosure, and liquid feed/collection containers will be positioned beneath the work surface. The mixer settler units are accessible from all four sides via sliding doors.