Abstract: A method for separating the isotopes of an element comprises the passing over a mass of highly magnetizable particles of fluid (either a gaseous mixture or a solution) containing an element or its compounds or ions each containing a single atom of the element to be isotopically separated. A strong magnetic field is utilized to magnetize the mass of particles and while the particles are magnetized the isotope having the higher magnetic moment is concentrated within the mass in the high magnetic field gradient zones at the points of contact between the particles. The less magnetic isotope flows through the matrix and the fluid emerging from the mass is collected in a suitable container. The magnetic field is removed intermittently and the fluid then flowing through the demagnetized mass is directed into a different container which thus collects the isotope having the higher magnetic moment and which is free to flow out with the fluid upon demagnetization of the mass.

Abstract: A method for magnetic separation of materials wherein the materials are ground to provide a mixture of fine particles of more- and less-magnetic materials which may include paramagnetic material and diamagnetic material. Discrete bodies of highly magnetizable material are introduced to a magnetic field of high intensity and thereby become a closely consolidated mass of bodies having interstitial pores extended through the mass in all directions. The mixed particles are caused to flow through the pores and the less-magnetic particles are separated from the more-magnetic particles and the mass of bodies in the magnetic field. The more-magnetic particles are separated from the bodies by moving the mass of bodies out of the magnetic field and by demagnetizing them so that they tumble freely and by washing or otherwise removing the particles from the bodies as they tumble after leaving the closely consolidated mass.