Separation of Resin Types in Mixed Bed Ion Exchange Columns

Abstract

Resin separation is a vital step prior to regeneration of Ion Exchange resins. The degree of separation determines the extent of sodium and sulfate or chloride into the system from caustic and acid regenerants, respectively. This study is aimed at determining the backwash conditions that would yield the best separation and also investigate the efficiency of interface isolation method for resin transfer. Flowrate and height of bed expansion are the two important parameters controlling resin separation. Increased backwash time along with low flow leads to better separation of a mixed bed. Interface isolation method is a viable resin transfer technique. The two factors affecting transfer are pressure and operator skill.