Ion Exchange Modeling for Removal of Cesium from Hanford Waste Using Resorcinol-Formaldehyde Resin

The expected performance of an alternative ion exchange resin, i.e., Resorcinol-Formaldehyde for the removal of cesium from Hanford high level radioactive alkaline waste is discussed. The SuperLig(R) 644 resin is the current primary resin of choice. A consistent performance comparison between RF and SuperLig(R) 644 resins is also provided. This report represents an initial report on our ability and knowledge with regard to modeling the RF resin ion exchange system, i.e., RF in its spherical bead structure. Only the loading phase of the cycle process is addressed within this report. Pertinent bench-scale column tests and batch equilibrium experiments are addressed. The methodology employed and sensitivity analyses are also discussed, i.e., the existing methodology employed for SuperLig(R) 644 resin analyses is also employed for the RF resin analyses. Pilot-scale testing is not assessed since no pilot-scale testing was available or planned at the time of this report, i.e., only Stage 1 activities are covered. Column performance predictions are made considering three selected feed compositions under nominal operating conditions. The sensitivity analyses provided help to identify key parameters that aid in resin procurement acceptance criteria. The methodology and application presented within this report reflect the expected behavior of RF resin manufactured at the small-scale, i.e., approximately 250 ml batch size level by Sintef. No analysis associated with the original ground RF resin is presented within this report. WTP decided that the baseline RF resin should be changed to the spherical bead form