Separation of U(VI) from aqueous solutions by precipitate flotation with 8-quinolinol and surfactants

Foam separation investigations over the 2.5-10.5 pH range show that U(VI) can be successfully separated from aqueous solutions by precipitation with oxine and subsequent flotation of the precipitate, either in absence or in presence of surfactant collectors. Collectors tested were: cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) and sodium lauryl sulphate (NaLS). The extent of removal depends on many factors and removals as high as 98% could be achieved when uranyl oxinate precipitate was floated, under certain controlled conditions, in the presence of CTAB. Factors affecting the percentage removal were investigated and the best conditions were selected. The results obtained are discussed in terms of the hydrolytic behaviour of U(VI)