Water purification by radiation induced oxidation (thesis excerpts)

Abstract
Water can be purified using carbon adsorption with subsequent γ‐radiation induced oxidation of the adsorbates. A theoretical design model of formaldehyde removal and destruction is presented. Results from this computer simulation are compared to experimental data. A kinetic model is proposed for the surface mechanisms which are patterned after those reactions known to occur in the aqueous phase. Maintaining a high oxygen partial pressure is a key design consideration. Simulations from 1–10 atm pressure suggest that pressurized operation will significantly enhance the oxidation rates. Other key physical parameters are the external and pore diffusion rates to the solid surface, oxygen adsorption, and the effects of carbon particle size. Three γ‐radiation sources were examined: 137Cs pollucite in the standard Hanford capsule, 60Co, and spend light water reactor (LWR) fuel rods. Cobalt‐60 offers the highest radiation intensity and efficiency, but it is also the most expensive radiation source.

This publication has 4 references indexed in Scilit: