Thermodynamic and kinetic characteristics of isotope separation processes

Effective operation of any tritium handling facility is highly dependent on the operation of its isotope separation system. Performance and safety requirements for the fuel cycle of future TNR are well beyond the capacities of any isotope separation system designed or operated so far. Key point for meeting operational and safety requirements is proper selection of technology and consideration of constrains in the system’s design. Irreversible and reversible processes are compared in term of applicability for separation of hydrogen isotopes. Isotopic effect in irreversible isotope separation processes is based on difference in physical properties of isotopically substituted substances. For reversible processes isotopic effect is based on difference of thermodynamic characteristics of isotopic exchange reactions. Multiplication of single isotopic effect in irreversible process requires arranging separation elements into cascade. For reversible process this can be performed in a single separation column. Reversible processes allow for simpler design of separation system with lower power consumption. Therefore, they present a preferable option for fuel cycle of TNR. Sizing of separation elements depends on the rate of mass transfer. Parameters used for the presentation of mass transfer and procedures for their experimental measurement are described.