Abstract: A device is provided having a structure for conducting a first fluid, the structure having in addition an interface for conducting a second fluid. The first fluid can be brought into contact with the second fluid at the interface of the structure. A flow interrupter (120.0) for interrupting a flow of the second fluid is situated at the interface of the structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for continuous treatment of two immiscible molten liquids having different densities. The apparatus comprises at least one open-ended helical reaction channel (3) arranged inside a substantially vertical housing (1), means for the continuous supply of the liquid with the higher density to the upper open end of said at least one reaction channel (3) and means for continuous supply of the liquid with the lower density to the lower open end of said at least one helical reaction channel (3), means for continuous removal of the liquid with the higher density at the lower open end of said helical reaction channel and means for removal of the liquid with the lower density from the upper open end of said helical reaction channel (3). The invention further relates to a method for continuous treatment of two immiscible molten liquids having different densities using the apparatus of the present invention.

Abstract: A method for the evaporative production of phenol-BPA adduct crystals in a crystallizer is provided. First, a supersaturated BPA solution is introduced into a crystallizer that includes a cylindrical vessel and a concentrically-disposed draft tube that defines an annular space between the vessel and tube. Next, the BPA solution is circulated through the draft tube and annular space while a coolant is uniformly distributed in the circulating flow by radially injecting a volatile hydrocarbon compound at between about 30% and 60% of a radial extent of the annular space of to form a BPA mixture. Phenol-BPA adduct crystals are produced in the vessel by evaporating the volatile hydrocarbon compound out of the BPA mixture. The method provides a consistent and uniform concentration of coolant across the surface of the boiling zone that prevents or at least reduces unwanted crystal nucleation.

Abstract: A crystallizer for the evaporative production of phenol-BPA adduct crystals is provided that achieves more uniform crystal growth while suppressing undesired crystal nucleation. The crystallizer includes a cylindrical vessel; a draft tube concentrically disposed within the cylindrical vessel such that an annular space is defined between the vessel and tube; an impeller that circulates liquid in the vessel through the draft tube and the annular space, and a plurality of nozzles mounted around an inner wall of said cylindrical vessel that introduce an evaporative coolant into the vessel. Each of the nozzles includes a discharge end disposed between about 30% and 60% of a radial extent of the annular space, and is located below an upper end of the draft tube a distance of between about 50% to 150% of the diameter of the vessel. Such a nozzle arrangement provides a consistent and uniform concentration of coolant across the surface of the boiling zone that prevents or at least reduces unwanted crystal nucleation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel means to provide more effective mixing of gas and fluids in a height constrained interbed space of a catalytic reactor without increasing pressure drop. In particular, the device improves the effectiveness of an existing mixing volume in mixing the gas phase and liquid phase of two-phase systems. According to the present invention, the mixing device helps create a highly arcuate flow to incoming effluents and a high degree of mixing within a constrained interbed space of a catalytic reactor.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel means to provide more effective mixing of gas and fluids in a height constrained interbed space of a catalytic reactor without increasing pressure drop. In particular, the device improves the effectiveness of an existing mixing volume in mixing the gas phase and liquid phase of two-phase systems. According to the present invention, the mixing device helps create a highly arcuate flow to incoming effluents and a high degree of mixing within a constrained interbed space of a catalytic reactor.

Abstract: A weir assembly for use with a mixer-settler for liquid-liquid extraction includes in one embodiment an organic weir having an inlet opening below the free surface of the organic phase liquid and a vertically-adjustable front wall allowing adjustments in the position and/or height of the inlet opening. The organic weir can also feature an angled bottom coupled to a lip segment, an incline plate in the interior of the weir, and a front wall that is angled with respect to incoming fluid flow. In another embodiment the weir assembly can independently or additionally include an aqueous weir with a labyrinth section. The aqueous weir can optionally include an adjustable lip hingedly coupled to the top of the final partition in the labyrinth section.

Abstract: A controlled odor generator, comprising a central processing unit, at least one micropump unit, a sensor unit and a fan. The micropump unit is housed in a casing containing odorous fluid and has a micropump array for ejecting the odorous fluid in tiny droplets. The central processing unit regulates operation of the micropump unit, allowing to control timing quantity and mixture of spread odor. The sensor unit provides the central processing unit with environmental data, like temperature, air density and humidity, as well as human body states for controlling the micropump unit. Environmental changes are followed by a change of spraying of odor, and varying taste and demand are adapted to.

Abstract: A device for processing fluids includes a number of fin layers with a number of plates separating the fin layers so that a fluid flow passage is defined through each fin layer. A first fluid inlet is in communication with a first end portion of the fluid flow passage, a first fluid outlet is in communication with a second end portion of the fluid flow passage, a second fluid inlet is in communication with the second end portion of the fluid flow passage and a second fluid outlet in communication with the first end portion of the fluid flow passage. The fluid flowing through the second inlet is subjected to a shearing action by the fin layers so that mass transfer to the fluid flowing through the first inlet occurs. The device may be used for both liquid-liquid processes, such as extraction, or gas-liquid processes, such as adsorption, absorption or desorption and reactions.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling and compressing a dispersion formed in the mixing stage of liquid-liquid extraction. The compression of the dispersion is achieved by reducing the cross-section of the separation section in the direction of flow and by equipping the separation section with a dispersion-damming member. The equipment according to the invention thus comprises a settler, which is essentially trapezoid in shape so that its cross-section is wider at the feed end of the settler and gets smaller towards the rear end of the settler, from whence the separated solutions are discharged from the settler, and the settler is equipped with at least one device to dam up the dispersion. In particular the method and equipment relate to the extraction process used in the recovery of metals.

Abstract: The process and apparatus are for removing a solute from a solute-bearing solid product by means of a solvent which remains in liquid state throughout the entire oil extraction process. In one embodiment, the solvent is normally in gazeous state at ambient temperature and pressure values, but is used mainly in liquid state within the method and apparatus of the present invention by maintaining such pressure and temperature values within the apparatus so that the solvent will remain in this liquid state.

Abstract: There is provided a treatment method of efficiently separating an additive component from a resin component for the purpose of treating and recycling a thermoplastic resin composition containing an additive. The treatment method includes heating and agitating the thermoplastic resin composition containing the additive together with a solvent for dissolving at least part of the additive at a temperature ranging from the glass transition temperature of the thermoplastic resin to the boiling point of the solvent inclusive, and separating and recovering the solvent in a liquid state in which at least part of the additive is dissolved, so that at least part of the additive is separated and removed from the thermoplastic resin composition.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for, and method of, performing various liquid-liquid contacting operations such as solvent extraction, stripping, scrubbing, washing, re-extraction and reacting in a single, integrated column. The ability of the integrated column, which is based on the intermediate decanter, of the present invention, to perform the entire operation of solvent extraction plant in a single column has many technical, economical, ecological and operational safety advantages. Investment costs significantly decrease due to the decrease in the number of columns, decanters, and auxiliary equipment, spare parts, materials inventories and the requisite area for the plant relative to a standard prior art plant. Operating and maintenance costs also decrease due to less pumping between columns and less equipment in operation.

Abstract: Cartridge type extraction trays for use in a small diameter liquid-liquid extraction column comprise a novel vertical wall which surrounds the active (perforated) area of the tray. This wall extends upward to a sufficient height to retain the heavy liquid on the active area of the tray preventing the heavy liquid from reaching the edge of the tray when it may possibly leak downward due to a gap between the edge of the tray and the inner surface of the column wall.

Abstract: Multi-phase extraction apparatus comprising two chambers forming a partition stage. Said chambers are connected by connection channels in their upper and lower portions. The upper portion of the first chamber is connected to the lower portion of the second chamber, while the upper portion of the second chamber is connected to the lower portion of the first chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for extraction of chemicals from an aquifer remediation aqueous effluent are provided. The extraction method utilizes a critical fluid for separation and recovery of chemicals employed in remediating aquifers contaminated with hazardous organic substances, and is particularly suited for separation and recovery of organic contaminants and process chemicals used in surfactant-based remediation technologies. The extraction method separates and recovers high-value chemicals from the remediation effluent and minimizes the volume of generated hazardous waste. The recovered chemicals can be recycled to the remediation process or stored for later use.

Abstract: Triphase extraction tower having two chambers connected at their top and bottom parts of overflows, and having ports for feeding and removing a first and second disperse phase.

Abstract: An apparatus for supercritical extraction is disclosed herein. The apparatus includes a plurality of containers adapted to hold a different one of a corresponding plurality of samples, a first transport means for carrying the plurality of sample containers, and a second transport means for transporting a selected container from the first transport means to a supercritical extractor. The supercritical extractor includes a heating means having a recess for receiving the selected container, means for passing fluid at a supercritical condition through the selected container, and a receiving means for receiving extractant from the selected container. A programming means is provided to control the first and second transport means.

Abstract: There are provided a method for uniform mixing of materials, which comprises arranging two or more droplet-discharging means of piezoelectricity-controlled type, discharging fine droplets from respective droplet-discharging means, and colliding them with each other to achieve uniform mixing, and an apparatus therefor. The directions of discharging from these droplet-discharging means are set so that the fine droplets discharged from respective droplet-discharging means are collided with each other at an angle of about 90° or 0 to 20°. The method and apparatus enables mixing and reaction of very small amounts of materials.

Abstract: This multi-phase extraction apparatus has at least two chambers 1, 2, which are connected at their upper and lower parts by connection channels 4, which are equipped with dispersing devices 3, and which have nozzles 12, 13, 15, 16 for the feeding and discharge of a first and a second disperse phase. Separation zones 7, which are equipped with coalescence-promoting packings 8, are situated in the region of the mouths of the connection channels 4 leading into the chambers 1, 2. In addition, the connection channels 4 can also be equipped with coalescence-promoting packings 9.

Abstract: The multistage three-phase extractor is provided with ports 7, 8 for the supply and ports 10, 11 for the removal of first and second dispersed phases and has contact stages 3 arranged one below the other, which each comprise two interconnected chambers 1, 2 filled with the continuous phase, wherein the first stage is equipped with a dispersing device 5. The first chamber 1 of an upper stage is connected with the second chamber 2 of the stage therebelow. The continuous phase is supplied to the first stage via the port 11 and removed from the last stage via the port 12.

Abstract: The method and apparatus mixes two immiscible liquids A and O to form a dispersion and then pre-separates the dispersion into two fractions (A+o) and (O+a) in a spout. These two fractions are fed separately into a decanter with two separate compartments which continue to maintain the two fractions as separate. Within the two separate compartments the two fractions are further separated into two flows, A, O, a, and o, such that four flows exit the decanter.

Abstract: Allyl halide is produced in high yields and purity with minimal carbon formation using a process of: (1) initially reacting propylene and molecular halogen in a molar ratio of at least about 2.5:1 in a "continuously stirred tank reactor" (CSTR) zone under conditions suitable to provide a reaction temperature of about 400.degree. C. to 525.degree. C. to partially convert propylene and chlorine into allyl chloride; and (2) feeding an effluent from Step (1) into a plug-flow reactor zone where the reaction is continued at a temperature of about 400.degree. C. to 525.degree. C. until essentially all of the chlorine is consumed. A preferred reactor for the process contains: (1) a spherical, egg-shaped or oval reactor zone; (2) a tubular reactor zone attached to the spherical, egg-shaped or oval reactor zone; (3) one or more inlets for injecting gaseous reagents into the spherical, oval or egg-shaped reactor zone; and (4) one or more outlets from the tubular reactor zone for withdrawing a gaseous product.

Abstract: A device for cleaning, disinfecting, and/or drying an endoscope consists of a basin supported on a base. The basin forms a channel that defines a teardrop shape. The device includes a lid that sealingly engages the basin. During operation, the endoscope to be cleaned is completely immersed in cleaning solution in the basin. The basin includes injectors arranged so as to create a rotating flow of cleaning liquid and sterile rinsing water or recycled drying air within the channel. The vessel also includes injection nozzles that attach to various inlets of the endoscope to inject products at specified pressures and to continuously test the tightness of the seal.

Abstract: A new chemical probe determines the properties of an analyte using the light absorption of the products of a reagent/analyte reaction. The probe places a small reaction volume in contact with a large analyte volume. Analyte diffuses into the reaction volume. Reagent is selectively supplied to the reaction volume. The light absorption of the reaction in the reaction volume indicates properties of the original analyte. The probe is suitable for repeated use in remote or hostile environments. It does not require physical sampling of the analyte or result in significant regent contamination of the analyte reservoir.

Abstract: In a process for solid-liquid extraction, in particular of sucrose from beet cossettes, countercurrent extraction in an extraction tower is employed. The tower juice is drawn off together with the small-sized solid constituents obtained in the process, such as sand, essentially exclusively via side screens.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for solvent extraction where the heavy and light phases are directed counter-currently into vertical mixing zones created by high-strength gas jets injecting gas up through the liquids to create an emulsion plume between the two liquids. The gas jets are at certain intervals along the countercurrent flow paths of the liquids with settling zones on either side of each the mixing zone. The phases disengage in the settling zones, flowing from the mixing zone in opposite countercurrent directions. The system has minimal backmixing, no moving parts, and good contact between phases.

Abstract: A photocatalytic oxidation and ozone catalyst system utilizes ultraviolet light and ozone in the treatment of waste and wastewater to destroy pathogens and to break down most hydrocarbons and other chemicals into non-hazardous forms. The wastewater enters the system for initial treatment and is also pumped through the venturi loop and is exposed to ultraviolet light. The ozone interacts at the venturi before the ultraviolet light is being used as a catalyst by the ultraviolet light to break apart the double bonds of ketones, aldehydes, esters, and carboxylic acids. Following initial treatment, the wastewater is pumped into the pressurized ozone enhancement vessel where vapor oxidation of the polluting chemicals occurs. The enhancement vessel comprises a liquid spray component and a series of ozone resonator plates having ozone distribution manifolds that spray the wastewater with ozone. The plates have angular channels formed therein through which the wastewater passes.

Abstract: Devices for making reaction products by atomizing into droplets a first liquid containing a first reactant into a gas containing a second reactant in a manner to form a reaction product within the droplets. The reaction is controlled by monitoring the transient conversion (conversion taking place in the time interval between the formation of the droplets and their coalescence into a mass of liquid) of first reactant to reaction product just before the droplets coalesce into a mass of a second liquid.

Abstract: Devices for making reaction products by atomizing a first liquid (in the form of droplets) containing a reactant into a gas containing a second reactant. The reaction is controlled by monitoring the pre-coalescing temperature (temperature of the droplets just before they coalesce into a mass of liquid), or transient temperature difference (difference between the pre-coalescing temperature and the temperature of the droplets just before being atomized), or transient conversion (conversion taking place in the time interval between the formation of the droplets and their coalescence into a mass of liquid) or a combination thereof.

Abstract: A reactor having one or more reactant inlets to which spargers are affixed and one or more reactant inlets each having an injection jet is presented. Reactants are introduced into the reactor through the spargers and jets under conditions in which a three dimensional cyclonic character is created in a well mixed reaction zone. This, together with the energy with which the reactants are introduced into the reaction zone, facilitates both macromixing and micromixing phenomena. The reactor is particularly useful for reacting chlorine and propylene to obtain allyl chloride.

Abstract: In the absorption of acetylene from a crude gas mixture containing mostly C.sub.2 hydrocarbons, a substantially acetylene-free liquid C.sub.2 stream is introduced into a mixing chamber located in the column between the feed points for the crude gas mixture and the absorption agent. The C.sub.2 stream is distributed into fine droplets as it enters into accumulated absorption agent in the mixing chamber, so that foam is not formed in the absorption column. The mixing chamber can be formed of a mixing tank integrated with a plate.

Abstract: The uniform distribution of mixed phase fluid stream on to the top of a contact bed in a reactor chamber is provided by a horizontal tray with a plurality of spaced-apart, vertically disposed chimneys extending through the tray. These chimneys have a first end to receive liquid and gas above the tray and a second end for distributing the liquid and gas downwardly below the tray. Importantly, the second end is provided with a spray generating device located below the tray for producing a conical downward spray of the mixed fluid phase onto the top surface of a bed of contact material positioned below the tray. The spray generating devices for producing the conical spray are located at positions so that the spray of the mixed fluid stream from one spray generating device as it impinges on the top surface of the fixed bed, will overlap the spray from an adjacent spray generating device.

Abstract: A novel process and apparatus for continuously producing very fine, ultrapure ceramic powders from ceramic precursor reactants in a self-sustaining reaction system in the form of a stabilized flame thereof to form ceramic particles and wherein the thus formed ceramic particles are collected in the absence of oxygen.

Abstract: In the absorption of acetylene from a crude gas mixture containing mostly C.sub.2 hydrocarbons by scrubbing with an absorbing agent, an externally produced mixture of about 10-70% by weight acetylene-free C.sub.2 hydrocarbons and about 30-90% by weight absorption agent is introduced in the absorption column, in order to prevent the formation of foam. The mixture is produced in a static mixer outside the absorption column, and is supplied from outside the column to a mixing tank installed between two plates within the column.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mixing concurrently downwardly flowing fluids is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a tray extending horizontally across a cross-section of a mixing chamber and having an aperture in the middle. A cap having a pair of opposing openings covers the aperture. Fluids pass through the openings into a pan adjacent a downstream portion of the mixing chamber and spaced below the tray. A tube encircling the aperture is disposed between the cap and the pan. The tube has notches cut into the lower wall to allow the fluids to enter the pan. Radially spaced risers extending from the bottom of the pan provide fluid communication to a downstream portion of the mixing chamber. The risers have upper ends which are above the notches and spaced below the tray. The mixing apparatus can be used between two catalyst beds in a vertical, fixed-bed reactor, wherein a hot, mixed-phase effluent stream is quenched with a hydrogen-rich gas in hydrodesulfurization, hydrocracking, and like processes.

Abstract: An apparatus for solvent extraction processes utilizing countercurrent flow of streams of an aqueous phase and an organic phase, such as the Purex process for uranium recovery. The invention comprises contouring the fluid passing orifices in the column phase dispersing perforated plates to impede droplet coalescence of the dispersed phase.

Abstract: A wet-type exhaust gas desulfurization system comprises a reservoir for trapping an absorbing solution which has absorbed SO.sub.2 from exhaust gas; an absorbing solution circulating tank disposed directly under the reservoir; a plurality of bottom pipes which are installed at the bottom of reservoir and extend downward into the absorbing solution in the circulating tank and whose lower end is open, or drop pipes which depend into the absorbing solution and whose lower ends are open; and air supply pipe at least one end of which is open to the atmosphere; a pipe for discharging the air above the surface of absorbing solution onto the surface of solution in the reservoir; and a pipe for supplying the absorbing solution in the circulating tank to a spray nozzle at the upper part of the absorbing tower.

Abstract: The apparatus has a column (1) of closed interior. Pipe (7b) leading into its upper part to admit liquid of higher density, and pipe (7a) leading into the lower part to admit liquid of lower density. Pipes (8, 10) emerge from the lower part to discharge liquid of higher density, and from its upper part to discharge liquid of lower density. Level control and propelling force adjusting mechanism (9) is connected with the pipe discharging liquid of higher density. Dispersing-mixing elements surrounding cells are beneath and above each other in the column (1). Pulsator (4) is connected with the lower part of column (1). The dispersing-mixing elements are formed by discs (5) having elastic tongues (13a) in the plane of discs capable for vibration and to move out of the disc's plane during vibration, and gap (14) runs along the periphery of the tongues (13a).

Abstract: A device for precipitating polymers from a liquid by at least one precipitant fluid includes a feed line, a nozzle plate having at least one outlet orifice for a polymer containing fluid with the outlet orifice communicating with the feed line, at least one nozzle for at least one precipitant fluid, the axis of which is arranged approximately perpendicularly to the axis of the outlet orifice, a precipitation chamber positioned on the side of the nozzle plate wherein at least one nozzle for at least one precipitant fluid is located, a discharge line for discharging a mixture which contains the precipitated polymer and a degassing chamber which is connected to the discharge line.

Abstract: The laboratory apparatus is used for separating gaseous, liquid and solid substances from gas samples (for example air) to be trace analyzed. It comprises a vessel and a mixer insert with nozzles. The gas fed into the mixer insert emerges from the nozzles at high speed into an absorption liquid held in the vessel so that intensive mixing and hence high absorption of the substances takes place. After passing through the liquid the gas leaves the vessel via an outlet. The substances absorbed in the liquid are available for analysis.

Abstract: A liquid-liquid contacting apparatus is provided having the capacity to control and contain a fire occurring within a separator vessel. Mixing of two liquid phases such as an organic and an aqueous solution may be advantageously conducted when the two phases are supplied at steady flow rates. Variations in the rates of supply of the phases are compensated for by pumping each liquid at a constant flow rate higher than the maximum flow rate provided by the supply, and permitting recirculation of a disengaged phase in the amount necessary to meet the demand of the system. The organic solution having a lower density than the aqueous solution rises within a separator vessel and may be ignited upon its upper surface. By flooding the vessel with a third nonflammable liquid such as water, the liquid level within the vessel is raised until the organic solution is removed by flowing over a channel weir within the vessel and is drained away through a fluid trap.

Abstract: Apparatus for the manufacture and recovery of alkali-metal tetraorganylborates. A mixed solvent and liquid/liquid contactor configuration is used in the system which aids in the recovery of the product.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispersing chemicals into an underwater pipe comprising first and second chemical feed pipes, the feed pipes being mounted to an intake pipe forming part of the underwater pipe, the first feed pipe extending along the length of the intake pipe and being connected to the second feed pipe, the second feed pipe being mounted to the intake pipe at that portion of the intake pipe adjacent an intake pipe opening, the second feed pipe including a plurality of inwardly extending releasing valves for dispensing chemicals into the intake pipe, the chemicals being delivered to the second feed pipe through the first feed pipe.

Abstract: A liquid-liquid contactor column 10 has a solvent input 16 and an aqueous phase input 22. Lighter phase liquid is discharged at 31 and heavier phase is moved by an air lift 26 to a receiver. The air supply line 28 to the air lift 26 includes valve 32 and a pressure sensing transducer 34 senses pressure in line 28 and sends electric signals to signal processing unit 52 which may for example close down operation of the column, or effect other changes to maintain operating characteristics of the column. The column could be pulsed by means which also send signals to unit 52, and could deliver to an external settler.

Abstract: Gas reacting apparatus and method are described for wet mass transfer of solute gases from a gas stream with a liquid or slurry reacting medium capable of chemisorption of solute gases in the gas stream. The apparatus comprises an elongated conduit defining a primary reaction zone in fluid-flow communication with a fan defining both a secondary reaction zone and a spray coalescence zone, and a plurality of dual-fluid spray nozzles coaxially spaced in series within the conduit and countercurrently or cocurrently directed to the gas stream for spraying the liquid or slurry reacting medium into said conduit to form a plurality of spray contact zones of uniformly-distributed fine droplets wherein intimate contact of high interfacial surface area between the sprayed liquid or slurry and the gas stream is effected to remove solute gases from the gas stream.

Abstract: A liquid-liquid extraction device and method for operating the same is disclosed. The device includes first and second conduits in flow communication with each other via a common wall having a large number of perforations. The second conduit includes an outer tube wall having a plurality of perforations leading to the outside of the device. When liquid in the first conduit is subjected to a pressure higher than that of the second conduit, and the pressure of the liquid in the second conduit is higher than that of the ambient pressure, liquid will be allowed to flow from the first conduit via perforations in the common wall into the second conduit so as to intermingle with the liquid in the second conduit. The resultant mixture in the second conduit is then ejected to the outside as a fine liquid jet via the perforations in the outer tube wall. The first and second conduits are constructed of a liquid-tight, elastically resilient material being non-swelling in contact with organic extraction solvents.

Abstract: Gas reacting apparatus and method are described for wet mass transfer of solute gases from a gas stream with a liquid or slurry reacting medium capable of chemisorption of solute gases in the gas stream. The apparatus comprises an elongated conduit means defining a primary reaction zone in fluid-flow communication with a fan means defining both a secondary reaction zone and a spray coalescence zone, and plurality of dual fluid spray means coaxially spaced in series within the conduit means and countercurrently or cocurrently directed to the gas stream for spraying the liquid or slurry reacting medium into said conduit means to form a plurality of spray contact zones of uniformly-distributed fine droplets wherein intimate contact of high interfacial surface area between the sprayed liquid or slurry and the gas stream is effected to remove solute gases from the gas stream.

Abstract: Sulfur-laden liquid organic phase dimethyl polysulfide (DMPS) is caused to rise from a sour gas well by reaction of the gaseous sulfur component within the well with a sulfur solvent, typically dimethyl disulfide (DMDS). The DMPS is contacted by an extraction or stripping liquid in a vertical column continuous multistage countercurrent flow extractor especially designed to promote high interfacial area contact between the liquids while flowing in opposing directions within the column.

Abstract: A liquid-liquid extraction column for use for example, in the solvent extraction of uranium and/or plutonium from an aqueous phase, comprises a perforated plate packing in which each plate (10) has flanges (18) associated with its perforations, which flanges (18) project upstream with respect to the disperse phase flow direction (arrows 14) so as to define a collecting zone (20) for disperse phase droplets (16) which thereby form a film or layer of the disperse phase component on the upstream face of each plate (10). In this way, droplet formation at the perforations of each plate (10) is not significantly influenced by variations of the wetting characteristics of the plate with time.