Removal of radioactivity from zircon
US5478538A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 14, 1993 |
| Grant date | Dec 26, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 14, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG21F9/32
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The specification discloses a process for removing radionuclides from zircon. The process involves thermally decomposing the zircon in the presence of suitable additives, extracting the radionuclides chemically and recovering zirconia and silica. Suitable additives include fluxes, silica and any oxide capable of forming a silicate with silica when heated. Chemical treatments disclosed include leaching with mineral acids and strong organic acids. Methods of stabilizing the radionuclides extracted by leaching are also disclosed. One method involves spray roasting. Another method involves neutralization of leach liquor and recovery of radionuclide solids by filtration or other suitable liquid/solid separation techniques.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.