A simulation model was developed for heavy water pre-enrichment and detritiation by the Combined Electrolysis and Catalytic Exchange (CECE) process. In the CECE process, heavy water enrichment and detritiation are based on the principle that concentrated in to water phase through an isotopic exchange reaction between water vapor and hydrogen gas produced by a water electrolysis. An operational analysis for a liquid phase catalytic exchange column was carried out by the model equations, composed of a material balance and combined equilibrium relationships for a scrubbing and catalyst bed, respectively. As a result of simulation, the optimum flow ratio of water to the rising hydrogen gas in contact with the down-coming water was predicted as the key variables in the separation performance analysis at a given feed flow rate and isotopic composition. From a graphical approach based on this model, the operating conditions can be determined within the range where the operating line does not meet the combined equilibrium line before reaching the specified target concentration.

• Kwang-Rag Kim(Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI)) Corresponding author
• Jong-Yun Kim(Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI))
• Sang-Ho Lim(Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI))
• Do-Hee Ahn(Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI))