ABSTRACT
Filtration is a unit operation that has been used to separate process streams, typically by removing or reducing solids from a fluid phase, in industrial processes for many decades. This method has been particularly useful for nuclear waste separations because filtration systems have a straightforward design, are relatively simple to implement, and reliably remove most solid particles. Filtration performance models are numerous, but these models are most valuable as conceptual guides for nuclear waste filtration because the most predictive models tend to be empirical. In addition, the application of solid–liquid filtration to nuclear waste processing has some unique challenges due to the chemical and physical complexity of the waste, the limitations on the filter media and equipment that can be used, and the restrictions on operating strategies that can be implemented. These specific challenges and the impact of waste suspension properties, filter configuration, and operating parameters are all important for understanding filtration behavior.
