Abstract: A system for handling exhausted vermiculite cation exchange particles after they have been used for the removal of heavy metal ions from waste effluents. The exhausted particles are stabilized and removed from the ion exchange column. Stabilization may be by acid solution recirculation through the column prior to particle removal. This is accomplished by preferably using a portable stabilization unit. The stabilized particles are removed from the column by a flushing, backwashing arrangement. After drying, the particles, which are non-hazardous, may be used in a land fill or they may be expanded to produce a lightweight aggregate, insulation, or agricultural material.

Abstract: Raw water is fed to a first column containing a weak acid cation exchange resin in hydrogen form where alkalinity causing ions and hardness causing ions to the extent of alkalinity are converted to carbonic acid. The carbonic acid, which hydrolyzes to dissolved carbon dioxide, is stripped from the water in a decarbonation unit by passing air countercurrent to the flow of water through the unit. The water is then fed to a second column containing a weak acid cation exchange resin in sodium form which removes residual hardness causing ions along with neutralization of any mineral acids or residual dissolved carbon dioxide. Both resins are substantially completely regenerated upon exhaustion to provide a process in which the maximum capacities of the resins are utilized, and the process is carried out with a minimum of monitoring and control.