Enrichment of Stable Isotopes, (IV) Theoretical Treatment of Ion-Exchange Systems Used for Lithium Isotope Separation

In order to gain an insight into exchange systems used for Li-isotope separation, experiments have been made from the point of rate theory. From the resulting data were derived equations related to the plate height due either to particle or to film diffusion. Using these equations, the plate height values based on particle and on film diffusion were determined by curve fitting. Further, ion-exchange reactions at the front and tail boundaries of the Li adsorption band were investigated in detail. Finally, the validity of the equations derived was proved by good agreement found with the experimental data obtained on an Li-elution system under steady state.