A TRIBUTYL PHOSPHATE-NITRATE SOLVENT EXTRACTION PROCESS FOR PRODUCING HIGH PURITY NUCLEAR GRADE RARE EARTH METAL OXIDES

摘要

An improved process for the preparation of high purity rare earth metal compounds such as oxides utilizing TBP (Tri-Butyl Phosphate)-nitrate solvent extraction technique adapted to manufacture nuclear grade rare earth metal compounds such as zirconium oxide wherein the said process substantially aids in reducing the specific generation of ammonium nitrate effluent volume thereby increasing its concentration when the said effluent comprising ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulphate are utilized for stripping of the said rare earth metal compound from the organic solvent in the said process of production of high purity rare earth metal oxide powder.