Work

Comparative analysis of uranium adsorption by Varion-AP and A500 resins in a CSTR cascade: Modeling, optimization, and mass transfer insights

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Efficient uranium removal in continuous ion exchange cascades depends on understanding coupled mass transfer resistances. This study compares a gel-type (Varion-AP) and microporous (A500) resin in a seven-stage CSTR (Continuous Stirred-Tank Reactor). Modeling confirmed the clear superiority of Varion-AP, which showed faster kinetics k LDF,opt = 3.25 h −1 and a significantly better model fit ( SSE ≈ 0.0021) compared to A500. Analysis revealed a mixed-control mass transfer regime, while intraparticle diffusion is dominant ( Biot number > 100), a non-negligible external film resistance slows the overall rate, explaining the limitations of simple LDF and PSO models. Multi-objective optimization also favored Varion-AP for its superior operational trade-offs. This study provides a framework for resin evaluation and highlights the importance of mechanistic models that account for both resistances as essential for reliable process design.

Source: Journal of Water Process Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.jwpe.2025.108640

Authors: Amirhossein Wizan, Davood Ghoddocynejad, Seyed Mohammad Davachi

Institutions: Sharif University of Technology, Texas A&M International University

Language: English

Topic: Radioactive element chemistry and processing

Subfield: Inorganic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,350