Electrochemical uranium extraction device and method
By optimizing the electrode spacing and voltage of the electrochemical uranium extraction device, the problem of insufficient adaptability of existing devices in complex marine environments has been solved, and efficient and stable uranium resource extraction has been achieved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-11-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-13
AI Technical Summary
Existing uranium extraction devices lack flexibility and adaptability in complex marine environments, resulting in insufficient matching of reaction parameters, low uranium extraction efficiency, and poor uranium product recovery rates, making it difficult to meet the demand for efficient uranium extraction.
An electrochemical uranium extraction device was designed, which includes an electrode adjustment component that can adjust the electrode spacing and voltage. Combined with a solar power module and a waveform generator, it can achieve dynamic voltage control and electrode spacing optimization to adapt to changes in the marine environment.
By optimizing the synergistic effect of electrode spacing and voltage, uranium extraction efficiency has been improved, energy consumption has been reduced, electrode maintenance has been simplified, and the system is adapted to complex marine environments, thus achieving efficient and stable uranium resource extraction.
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Figure CN121653771A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application belongs to the field of marine resource utilization technology, and in particular relates to an electrochemical uranium extraction device and method. Background Technology
[0002] Uranium is an indispensable key raw material for nuclear power generation and national defense, and its long-term stable supply is directly related to national energy security and the sustainable development of the nuclear power industry. Faced with the constraints of terrestrial uranium resources, effectively extracting the vast uranium resources in the ocean has become an important strategic direction for resolving the supply and demand contradiction.
[0003] Currently, mainstream uranium extraction technologies include direct adsorption, electrochemical methods, and wet extraction, with corresponding uranium extraction devices designed around these technological routes. However, existing devices have certain limitations in their structural and parameter design, making it difficult to meet the demands for efficient uranium extraction under complex operating conditions. Specifically, the system structure and operating parameters tend to be rigid, lacking the ability to flexibly adapt to complex marine environments and dynamic reaction processes, making it difficult to maintain optimal reaction states under dynamic conditions. These factors lead to insufficient parameter matching in the reaction system, resulting in low uranium extraction efficiency and poor uranium product recovery rates. Consequently, the overall uranium extraction effect fails to meet the ideal expectations for practical applications, limiting the application of this type of technology in uranium extraction scenarios.
[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an electrochemical uranium extraction device with excellent overall performance in order to overcome existing limitations and broaden application scenarios. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This application discloses an electrochemical uranium extraction device and method, which aims to solve the technical problem that existing uranium extraction devices lack the ability to flexibly adapt to complex marine environments and dynamic reaction processes.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this application is: The first aspect of this application provides an electrochemical uranium extraction apparatus, comprising: A container having a through-hole for seawater to pass through; An electrode adjustment assembly is disposed in the container, the electrode adjustment assembly including an electrode system disposed within the container for contact with seawater; the electrode adjustment assembly further includes an adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting the spacing between at least two electrodes of the electrode system; The power supply module includes a waveform generator and a power supply for supplying power to the waveform generator. The output terminal of the waveform generator is electrically connected to the electrode system and is used to output dynamic voltage or constant voltage to the electrode system.
[0007] Preferably, in conjunction with the first aspect, the electrode system includes at least one positive electrode and at least one negative electrode; The negative electrode is the uranium extraction electrode; The positive electrode is either a platinum electrode or a ruthenium-iridium-titanium mesh electrode.
[0008] In conjunction with the first aspect, preferably, the electrode adjustment assembly further includes: An electrode holder, which is detachably disposed in the container.
[0009] Preferably, in conjunction with the first aspect, at least one positive electrode and at least one negative electrode of the electrode system are detachably disposed on the electrode holder.
[0010] Preferably, in conjunction with the first aspect, the adjustment mechanism adjusts the distance between the positive electrode and the negative electrode in the electrode system via a drive mechanism; The adjustable spacing range is 3-15 cm; The drive mechanism includes a drive motor, which is electrically connected to the power supply module.
[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, preferably, the power supply module further includes: A solar charging panel, wherein the solar charging panel is electrically connected to the input terminal of the power supply, and the output terminal of the power supply is electrically connected to the waveform generator; The power source can store the electrical energy generated by the solar charging panel and transmit the stored electrical energy to the waveform generator, which then converts the energy and outputs voltage to the electrode system. The voltage amplitude output by the waveform generator is between 0.5 and 10 V, and the frequency is adjustable between 100 and 500 Hz.
[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, preferably, the container further includes: a suspension element; The suspension component is provided on the container and is used to fix the container in the work area.
[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, preferably, the power supply module is electrically connected to the positive and negative terminals through a waterproof electrical connection component.
[0014] The second aspect of this application provides a method for uranium extraction from seawater, implemented using the electrochemical uranium extraction apparatus described in the first aspect, the method comprising: The electrochemical uranium extraction device is placed in seawater so that the electrode system in the electrochemical uranium extraction device comes into contact with the seawater to extract uranium; A dynamic or constant voltage is applied to the electrode system via the waveform generator, and The spacing between the at least two electrodes is adjusted synchronously or alternately via the adjustment mechanism.
[0015] Preferably, in conjunction with the second aspect, the step of applying a dynamic voltage or a constant voltage to the electrode system through the waveform generator, and synchronously or alternately adjusting the spacing between the at least two electrodes through the adjustment mechanism, further includes: determining the output voltage of the waveform generator and the spacing between the electrodes based on the uranium adsorption capacity of the negative electrode in the electrode system.
[0016] Compared with the prior art, the advantages or beneficial effects of the embodiments of this application include at least the following: The electrochemical uranium extraction apparatus provided in this application achieves highly efficient uranium extraction through the synergistic effect of adjustable electrode spacing and adjustable voltage. This apparatus can optimize the electrode spacing and operating voltage according to uranium concentration fluctuations in the seawater environment, placing them within the optimal range and exhibiting excellent dynamic adaptability to maintain the optimal reaction state. By finely optimizing the electrode spacing, solution resistance is reduced, energy consumption is decreased, and the electric field distribution is optimized to obtain better deposition morphology and uranium extraction efficiency. The detachable electrode design facilitates electrode transfer for centralized and efficient precipitate collection. This greatly avoids open operation in complex aquatic environments and facilitates electrode cleaning and regeneration, significantly reducing maintenance difficulty and cost.
[0017] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description
[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the container in the electrochemical uranium extraction device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the power supply module in the electrochemical uranium extraction device provided in the embodiments of this application; Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1-Container, 2-Through hole, 3-Electrode adjustment assembly, 4-Electrode system, 5-Adjustment mechanism, 6-Power supply module, 7-Waveform generator, 8-Power supply, 9-Positive electrode, 10-Negative electrode, 11-Electrode clamp, 12-Drive mechanism, 13-Drive motor, 14-Solar charging panel, 15-Suspension component. Detailed Implementation
[0020] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0021] In this application, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "vertical," "horizontal," "lateral," and "longitudinal" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this application and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.
[0022] Furthermore, in addition to indicating location or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.
[0023] Furthermore, the terms "installation," "setup," "equipped with," "connection," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.
[0024] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are primarily used to distinguish different devices, components, or parts (which may be the same or different in specific type and construction), and are not intended to indicate or imply the relative importance or quantity of the indicated devices, components, or parts. Unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.
[0025] Unless otherwise specified, the raw materials used in the following specific embodiments are all commercially available, the instruments used are all commercially available, and the processes involved are conventionally selected by those skilled in the art.
[0026] This application provides a schematic diagram of an electrochemical uranium extraction device, as shown in the embodiment. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown: Container 1, wherein the container 1 is provided with a through hole 2 for seawater to pass through; An electrode adjustment assembly 3 is disposed in the container 1. The electrode adjustment assembly 3 includes an electrode system 4 disposed in the container 1 for contact with seawater. The electrode adjustment assembly 3 also includes an adjustment mechanism 5, which is capable of adjusting the spacing between at least two electrodes of the electrode system 4. The power supply module 6 includes a waveform generator 7 and a power supply 8 that supplies power to the waveform generator 7. The output terminal of the waveform generator 7 is electrically connected to the electrode system 4 and is used to output a dynamic voltage or a constant voltage to the electrode system 4. Specifically, the waveform generator 7 can be a function / arbitrary waveform generator, and the set voltage parameter can be a pulse voltage or a constant voltage.
[0027] The electrode system 4 includes at least one positive electrode 9 and at least one negative electrode 10; the negative electrode 10 is a CdS / TiO2 electrode; the positive electrode 9 is a platinum electrode or a ruthenium-iridium-titanium mesh electrode; the adjustable spacing between the positive electrode 9 and the negative electrode 10 is 3-15 cm.
[0028] The electrode adjustment assembly 3 further includes: an electrode clamp 11, which is detachably disposed on the container 1; the positive electrode 9 and the negative electrode 10 are detachably disposed on the electrode clamp 3. Specifically, the electrode adjustment assembly 3 can be a screw wheel, and the electrode clamp 11 can be an electrode clamp, preferably made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).
[0029] The adjustment mechanism 5 adjusts the distance between the positive electrode 9 and the negative electrode 10 in the electrode system 4 through the drive mechanism 12, and the drive mechanism 12 dynamically adjusts the distance according to the uranium adsorption capacity; the drive mechanism 12 includes a drive motor 13, which is electrically connected to the power supply module 6.
[0030] The power supply module 6 further includes a solar charging panel 14, which is electrically connected to the input terminal of the power supply 8, and the output terminal of the power supply 8 is electrically connected to the waveform generator 7. The power supply 8 can store the electrical energy generated by the solar charging panel 14 and transmit the stored electrical energy to the waveform generator 7. After conversion by the waveform generator 7, the voltage is output to the electrode system 4.
[0031] The container 1 further includes a suspension member 15; the suspension member 15 is disposed on the container 1 and is used to fix the container 1 in the work area. Specifically, the suspension member 15 can be a lifting ring.
[0032] Specifically, this application utilizes the suspension member 15 on the container 1 to fix the device in the marine target operation area. The positive electrode 9 and negative electrode 10 are installed inside the container 1 via the detachable electrode clamp 11, forming the electrode system 4. During assembly, the distance between the positive and negative electrodes can be initially set according to the initial operating conditions using the adjustment mechanism 5. After the electrode assembly is completed, the circuit connection status of the power supply module 6 is checked. The solar charging panel 14 is electrically connected to the input terminal of the power supply 8, the output terminal of the power supply 8 is electrically connected to the waveform generator 7, and the output terminal of the waveform generator 7 is electrically connected to the electrode system 4. The drive motor 13 also establishes circuit communication with the power supply module 6 to ensure the transmission of energy and control signals.
[0033] Specifically, the solar charging panel 14 collects solar energy and converts it into electrical energy, which is then supplied to the power source 8. The power source 8 stores this electrical energy to form an energy reserve and continuously supplies the stored energy to the waveform generator 7, providing continuous energy support for the electrode reaction and adapting to the energy needs of outdoor operations such as marine environments. The waveform generator 7 converts the electrical energy input from the power source 8 into a dynamic or constant voltage according to the uranium extraction reaction requirements, and then outputs the voltage to the positive and negative electrodes of the electrode system 4, providing a controllable electric field environment for the electrochemical reaction of uranyl ions.
[0034] Specifically, the seawater flows into container 1 through the through-hole 2, contacting the positive electrode 9 and negative electrode 10 in the electrode system 4. The through-hole 2 ensures continuous seawater flow, preventing the uranium concentration in the reaction area from continuously decreasing due to adsorption and extraction, thus ensuring the continuity of the reaction. Electrode system 4 undergoes an electrochemical reaction—the negative electrode 10, with its excellent adsorption and catalytic properties, selectively adsorbs uranyl ions from the seawater and reduces and deposits them on the electrode surface; the positive electrode 9 simultaneously undergoes an oxidation reaction, forming an electrode reaction circuit to achieve uranium resource extraction.
[0035] Specifically, during operation, the negative electrode 10 is used to collect uranyl ion data for testing, and based on the data feedback, the adjustment mechanism 5 dynamically adjusts the distance between the positive electrode 9 and the negative electrode 10. When the adsorption efficiency decreases, the drive motor drives the adjustment mechanism to reduce or increase the distance to optimize the electric field distribution and mass transfer efficiency; when the efficiency reaches its peak, the distance is kept stable to ensure that the reaction is always in an optimal state.
[0036] Specifically, the waveform generator 7 can synchronously switch between output dynamic voltage and constant voltage according to the electrode spacing adjustment results and the requirements of the reaction stage, forming a synergy with the electrode spacing adjustment, further improving the adsorption selectivity and reduction efficiency of uranyl ions, and suppressing interference from impurity ions.
[0037] Specifically, when the uranium deposition on the electrode surface reaches saturation, the positive electrode 9 and negative electrode 10 can be quickly disassembled through the detachable electrode clamp 11 for uranium desorption and recovery or electrode replacement, which is highly convenient to operate. After replacement, the device can be reassembled to resume operation. Combined with the continuous stability of solar power supply, the device can achieve long-term large-scale uranium extraction operations.
[0038] Specifically, the negative electrode is a uranium extraction electrode; the uranium extraction electrode can be selected as a CdS / TiO2 electrode or a amine oxime-modified graphite felt electrode; the positive electrode is preferably a platinum electrode or a ruthenium-iridium titanium mesh electrode.
[0039] Specifically, this application uses a combination of solar charging panel 14 and power supply 8 for power supply, eliminating the need for the power grid and providing a stable and sustainable power source for the device. Its compact structure reduces on-site assembly steps and can be used in various scenarios such as shoreline, nearshore, and offshore, overcoming geographical limitations. By adjusting the spacing between the positive and negative electrodes, voltage is transmitted to the uranium extraction electrode, causing a redox reaction on the electrode surface. Uranyl ions in seawater are selectively adsorbed or reduced and deposited on the electrode surface, achieving the directional enrichment of uranium and the efficient completion of the uranium extraction process.
[0040] Specifically, the uranium extraction electrode is fixed inside the container using electrode clamps. The distance between the two electrodes is adjusted by a screw wheel. The sealing cap is then precisely aligned and connected to the container to ensure a reliable seal. Nylon ropes are used to secure the lifting ring on the sealing cap to the offshore test platform. The container is then placed in seawater, ensuring the electrodes are completely submerged. A solar charging panel converts solar energy into electrical energy, which is stored in a power source to power a waveform generator. Using voltage parameters (pulse voltage or constant voltage) set by the waveform generator, a voltage signal is transmitted to the uranium extraction electrode, causing a redox reaction on its surface. Uranyl ions in the seawater are selectively adsorbed or reduced and deposited on the electrode surface, completing the uranium extraction process. After the reaction is complete, the electrode is removed, and the uranium product can be collected.
[0041] Specifically, the container of this application uses corrosion-resistant materials, which improves the corrosion resistance and service life of the device in seawater. Meanwhile, the device provided by this application is applicable to various water sources such as seawater, uranium mine wastewater, and groundwater, and has good adaptability to uranium-containing solutions of different concentrations and compositions, as well as the extraction needs of uranium resources of different grades, thus possessing broad application prospects.
[0042] Specifically, the uranium extraction electrode is fixed inside the container using electrode clamps. The distance between the two electrodes is adjusted by a screw wheel. The sealing cap is then precisely aligned and connected to the container to ensure a reliable seal. Nylon ropes are used to secure the lifting ring on the sealing cap to the offshore test platform. The container is then placed in seawater, ensuring the electrodes are completely submerged. A solar charging panel converts solar energy into electrical energy, which is stored in a power source to power a waveform generator. Using voltage parameters (pulse voltage or constant voltage) set by the waveform generator, a voltage signal is transmitted to the uranium extraction electrode, causing a redox reaction on its surface. Uranyl ions in the seawater are selectively adsorbed or reduced and deposited on the electrode surface, completing the uranium extraction process. After the reaction is complete, the electrode is removed, and the uranium product can be collected.
[0043] In this embodiment, the voltage amplitude output by the waveform generator is adjustable between 0.5 and 10 V, and the frequency is adjustable between 100 and 500 Hz. The voltage output by the waveform generator can be dynamically adjusted according to the uranium adsorption capacity. By setting an adjustable range to cover common uranium adsorption conditions, it can meet the needs of different adsorption materials, solution systems, or reaction devices.
[0044] In this embodiment, the positive and negative terminals are electrically connected to the power supply module via a waterproof electrical connection assembly. Specifically, the waterproof electrical connection assembly can be a waterproof cable, and the connection is provided with a sealed protective structure to prevent seawater corrosion from causing circuit failure.
[0045] This device is the first to deeply integrate dual-mode energy storage (solar panel and mobile power supply), precise control of arbitrary waveform generator, and electrolytic cell, forming an integrated system of "autonomous power supply, dynamic reaction, and precise control." This device solves the problems of existing electrode devices relying on external power sources and having uncontrollable reaction conditions, and overcomes the bottlenecks of passive adsorption and low mass transfer efficiency in traditional adsorption devices, achieving a breakthrough from "laboratory principle verification" to "in-situ marine application."
[0046] Secondly, this application also provides a method for uranium extraction from seawater, implemented using the electrochemical uranium extraction apparatus described in the first aspect, the method comprising: The electrochemical uranium extraction device is placed in seawater so that the electrode system in the electrochemical uranium extraction device comes into contact with the seawater to extract uranium; A dynamic or constant voltage is applied to the electrode system via the waveform generator, and The spacing between the at least two electrodes is adjusted synchronously or alternately via the adjustment mechanism.
[0047] In this embodiment, the step of applying a dynamic or constant voltage to the electrode system via the waveform generator, and synchronously or alternately adjusting the spacing between the at least two electrodes via the adjustment mechanism, further includes: determining the output voltage of the waveform generator and the spacing between the electrodes based on the uranium adsorption capacity of the negative electrode in the electrode system. Specifically, the uranium adsorption capacity is the maximum mass of uranium that can be adsorbed per unit mass / area of material, thereby dynamically adjusting the output voltage of the waveform generator and the spacing between the electrodes to meet the usage requirements of different scenarios.
[0048] The technical solution of this application will be further described below with reference to specific embodiments.
[0049] Example 1 This embodiment provides a method for implementing uranium extraction using an electrochemical uranium extraction device, specifically including: An electrochemical uranium extraction device includes a container, an electrode adjustment assembly, and a power supply module. The electrode adjustment assembly includes a screw wheel and electrode clamps. The electrode clamps are fixed to the container, and the container's sealing cap is removable for adjusting the container's sealing state. The container is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), with a diameter of 40 cm and a height of 40 cm. The container wall is perforated with holes 1 cm in diameter, spaced 4 cm apart to ensure rapid diffusion and transport of seawater within the container. The sealing cap has four lifting rings on its upper part for securing the container to a marine test platform. The electrode clamps are made of PTFE and include a positive clamp and a negative clamp. The positive and negative clamps are parallel. The negative clamp holds the uranium extraction electrode (CdS / TiO2 electrode), and the positive clamp holds the platinum electrode. The screw wheel is used to adjust the distance between the positive and negative clamps to 5 cm.
[0050] The power supply module includes a power supply, a solar charging panel, and a waveform generator. The solar charging panel is connected to the power supply, the input of the waveform generator is connected to the power supply, and the output is connected to the electrode clips. The solar charging panel is a monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic panel with a power output of 100 W, a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 23%, and a battery capacity of 1071 Wh. The waveform generator is a UTG1022 X model with an output voltage range of 0-10 V. The power supply is a 1000 Pro2 model. The power supply and waveform generator are integrated into a portable housing with dimensions of 50 cm × 40 cm × 30 cm for easy on-site deployment.
[0051] The container and the power supply module are connected by a 3-meter waterproof cable with an IP68 waterproof connector to prevent seawater corrosion from causing circuit failure.
[0052] The uranium extraction electrode (CdS / TiO2 electrode) and platinum electrode were fixed inside the container using electrode clamps. The sealing cap was precisely aligned and connected to the container. Nylon ropes were used to secure the lifting ring on the sealing cap to the offshore test platform. The container was placed in seawater, ensuring the electrodes were completely submerged. The power supply module was placed on the offshore test platform, and the solar charging panel was deployed to charge the power supply. After it was fully charged, the waveform generator parameters were set to square wave mode, with an amplitude of 5 V, a frequency of 500 Hz, and a duty cycle of 50%. After 72 hours of energization, the electrodes were removed, and desorption was performed using a sulfuric acid solution. The uranium concentration in the desorbate was tested according to HJ700-2014. The calculated uranium adsorption capacity of the material is 168.02 mg / m³. 2 .
[0053] Example 2 This embodiment provides a method for implementing uranium extraction using an electrochemical uranium extraction device, specifically including: An electrochemical uranium extraction device includes a container, an electrode adjustment assembly, and a power supply module. The electrode adjustment assembly includes a screw wheel and electrode clamps. The electrode clamps are fixed to the container, and the container's sealing cap is removable for adjusting the container's sealing state. The container is made of polyethylene (PE), with a diameter of 50 cm and a height of 50 cm. The container wall is perforated with holes 2 cm in diameter, spaced 5 cm apart to ensure rapid diffusion and transport of seawater within the container. The sealing cap has eight lifting rings on its upper part for securing the electrolytic cell to a marine test platform. The electrode clamps are made of PTFE and include a positive clamp and a negative clamp, parallel to each other. The positive clamp holds the uranium extraction electrode (CdS / TiO2 electrode), and the negative clamp holds the platinum electrode. The distance between the positive and negative clamps is adjusted to 4 cm using the screw wheel.
[0054] The power supply module includes a power supply, a solar charging panel, and a waveform generator. The solar charging panel is connected to the power supply, the input of the waveform generator is connected to the power supply, and the output is connected to the electrode clips. The solar charging panel is a monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic panel with a power output of 100 W, a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 23%, and a battery capacity of 1071 Wh. The waveform generator is a UTG1022 X model with an output voltage range of 0-10 V. The power supply is a 1000 Pro2 model. The power supply and waveform generator are integrated into a portable housing with dimensions of 50 cm × 40 cm × 30 cm for easy on-site deployment.
[0055] The container and the power supply module are connected by a 3-meter waterproof cable with an IP68 waterproof connector to prevent seawater corrosion from causing circuit failure.
[0056] The uranium extraction electrode (CdS / TiO2 electrode) and platinum electrode were fixed inside the container using electrode clamps. The sealing cap was precisely aligned and connected to the container. Nylon ropes were used to secure the lifting ring on the sealing cap to the offshore test platform. The container was placed in seawater, ensuring the electrodes were completely submerged. The energy storage control compartment was placed on the offshore test platform, and the solar charging panels were deployed to charge the power source. After full charging, the waveform generator parameters were set to square wave mode with an amplitude of 4 V, a frequency of 400 Hz, and a duty cycle of 50%. After 48 hours of energization, the electrodes were removed, and desorption was performed using a sulfuric acid solution. The uranium concentration in the desorbate was measured according to HJ700-2014. The calculated uranium adsorption capacity of the material is 126.25 mg / m³. 2 .
[0057] Example 3 This embodiment provides a method for implementing uranium extraction using an electrochemical uranium extraction device, specifically including: An electrochemical uranium extraction device includes a container, an electrode adjustment assembly, and a power supply module. The electrode adjustment assembly includes a screw wheel and electrode clamps. The electrode clamps are fixed to the container, and the container's sealing cap is removable for adjusting the container's sealing state. The container is made of polyethylene (PE), with a diameter of 40 cm and a height of 40 cm. The container wall is perforated with holes of 1 cm in diameter, spaced 3 cm apart to ensure rapid diffusion and transport of seawater within the container. The sealing cap has four lifting rings on its upper part for securing the electrolytic cell to a marine test platform. The electrode clamps are made of PTFE and include a positive clamp and a negative clamp, parallel to each other. The positive clamp holds the uranium extraction electrode (CdS / TiO2 electrode), and the negative clamp holds the ruthenium-iridium-titanium mesh electrode. The distance between the positive and negative clamps is adjusted to 7 cm using the screw wheel.
[0058] The power supply module includes a power supply, a solar charging panel, and a waveform generator. The solar charging panel is connected to the power supply, the input of the waveform generator is connected to the power supply, and the output is connected to the electrode clips. The solar charging panel is a monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic panel with a power output of 100 W, a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 23%, and a battery capacity of 1071 Wh. The waveform generator is a UTG1022 X model with an output voltage range of 0-10 V. The power supply is a 1000 Pro2 model. The power supply and waveform generator are integrated into a portable housing with dimensions of 50 cm × 40 cm × 30 cm for easy on-site deployment.
[0059] The container and the power supply module are connected by a 3-meter waterproof cable with an IP68 waterproof connector to prevent seawater corrosion from causing circuit failure.
[0060] The uranium extraction electrode (CdS / TiO2 electrode) and the ruthenium-iridium-titanium mesh electrode were fixed inside the container using electrode clamps. The sealing cap was precisely aligned and connected to the container. Nylon ropes were used to secure the lifting ring on the sealing cap to the offshore test platform. The container was placed in seawater, ensuring the electrodes were completely submerged. The energy storage control compartment was placed on the offshore test platform, and the solar charging panel was deployed to charge the power source. After it was fully charged, the waveform generator parameters were set to DC mode with an amplitude of 2.5 V. After 72 hours of energization, the electrodes were removed, and desorption was performed using a sulfuric acid solution. The uranium concentration in the desorbate was tested according to HJ700-2014. The calculated uranium adsorption capacity of the material is 159.78 mg / m³. 2 .
[0061] Example 4 This embodiment provides a uranium extraction method with process parameters basically the same as in Embodiment 1. The difference lies in that, in this embodiment, the distance between the positive and negative electrode clamps is adjusted to 3 cm using a screw wheel; the waveform generator parameters are set to square wave mode with an amplitude of 5 V. After the test, the uranium adsorption capacity of the material was found to be 167.25 mg / m³. 2 .
[0062] Example 5 This embodiment provides a uranium extraction method with process parameters basically the same as in Embodiment 1. The difference lies in that, in this embodiment, the distance between the positive and negative electrode clamps is adjusted to 7 cm using a screw wheel; the waveform generator parameters are set to square wave mode with an amplitude of 5 V; and after the test, the uranium adsorption capacity of the material is found to be 161.64 mg / m³. 2 .
[0063] Example 6 This embodiment provides a uranium extraction method with process parameters basically the same as in Embodiment 1. The difference lies in that, in this embodiment, the distance between the positive and negative electrode clamps is adjusted to 5 cm using a screw wheel, the waveform generator parameters are set to square wave mode with an amplitude of 3 V, and after the test, the uranium adsorption capacity of the material is found to be 89.32 mg / m³. 2 .
[0064] Example 7 This embodiment provides a uranium extraction method with process parameters basically the same as in Embodiment 1. The difference lies in that, in this embodiment, the distance between the positive and negative electrode clamps is adjusted to 5 cm using a screw wheel, the waveform generator parameters are set to square wave mode with an amplitude of 7 V, and after the test, the uranium adsorption capacity of the material is found to be 160.29 mg / m³. 2 .
[0065] Example 8 This embodiment provides a uranium extraction method with process parameters basically the same as in Embodiment 1. The difference lies in that, in this embodiment, the uranium extraction electrode is a amine oxime-modified graphite felt electrode, and the distance between the positive and negative electrode clamps is adjusted to 5 cm using a screw wheel; the waveform generator parameters are set to square wave mode with an amplitude of 5 V; after the test, the uranium adsorption capacity of the material is found to be 110.94 mg / m³. 2 .
[0066] The uranium adsorption capacities obtained in the embodiments of this application are shown in Table 1: Table 1 Summary of uranium adsorption capacity
[0067] According to Table 1, when the electrodes are CdS / TiO2 electrodes and platinum electrodes, the optimal uranium adsorption capacity after electrolysis is achieved by adjusting the distance between the positive and negative electrodes to 5 cm, adjusting the waveform generator parameters to square wave mode, and setting the amplitude to 5 V.
[0068] Therefore, this application, through the synergistic linkage of electrode spacing and voltage, not only ensures that the electrodes are always in the optimal electric field strength region adapted to the current uranium concentration, but also achieves a synergistic effect. This is achieved by optimizing the spacing to increase the migration rate of uranium ions to the electrode surface and by optimizing the voltage to ensure high selectivity and high reaction kinetic rate of the uranium reduction reaction. Ultimately, this enables efficient, stable, and low-energy extraction of uranium resources from seawater, significantly improving the efficiency, selectivity, and long-term operational stability of the uranium extraction process.
[0069] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit this application. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of this application.
Claims
1. An electrochemical uranium extraction device, characterized in that, include: A container having a through-hole for seawater to pass through; An electrode adjustment assembly is disposed in the container, the electrode adjustment assembly including an electrode system disposed within the container for contact with seawater; the electrode adjustment assembly further includes an adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting the spacing between at least two electrodes of the electrode system; The power supply module includes a waveform generator and a power supply for supplying power to the waveform generator. The output terminal of the waveform generator is electrically connected to the electrode system and is used to output dynamic voltage or constant voltage to the electrode system.
2. The electrochemical uranium extraction device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrode system includes at least one positive electrode and at least one negative electrode; The negative electrode is the uranium extraction electrode; The positive electrode is a platinum electrode or a ruthenium-iridium-titanium mesh electrode.
3. The electrochemical uranium extraction device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrode adjustment assembly further includes: An electrode holder, which is detachably disposed in the container.
4. The electrochemical uranium extraction apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, At least one positive electrode and at least one negative electrode of the electrode system are detachably disposed on the electrode holder.
5. The electrochemical uranium extraction device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The adjustment mechanism adjusts the distance between the positive and negative electrodes in the electrode system via a drive mechanism; The adjustable spacing range is 3-15 cm; The drive mechanism includes a drive motor, which is electrically connected to the power supply module.
6. The electrochemical uranium extraction apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply module also includes: A solar charging panel, wherein the solar charging panel is electrically connected to the input terminal of the power supply, and the output terminal of the power supply is electrically connected to the waveform generator; The power source can store the electrical energy generated by the solar charging panel and transmit the stored electrical energy to the waveform generator, which then converts the energy and outputs voltage to the electrode system. The voltage amplitude output by the waveform generator is between 0.5 and 10 V, and the frequency is adjustable between 100 and 500 Hz.
7. The electrochemical uranium extraction apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The container also includes: a suspension component; The suspension component is provided on the container and is used to fix the container in the work area.
8. The electrochemical uranium extraction apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The power supply module is electrically connected to the positive and negative terminals through a waterproof electrical connection component.
9. A method for extracting uranium from seawater, characterized in that, The method is carried out using any one of the electrochemical uranium extraction apparatuses described in claims 1-8, and includes: The electrochemical uranium extraction device is placed in seawater so that the electrode system in the electrochemical uranium extraction device comes into contact with the seawater to extract uranium; A dynamic or constant voltage is applied to the electrode system via the waveform generator, and The spacing between the at least two electrodes is adjusted synchronously or alternately via the adjustment mechanism.
10. The method for uranium extraction from seawater according to claim 9, characterized in that, The step of applying a dynamic or constant voltage to the electrode system via the waveform generator, and synchronously or alternately adjusting the spacing between the at least two electrodes via the adjustment mechanism, further includes: determining the output voltage of the waveform generator and the spacing between the electrodes based on the uranium adsorption capacity of the negative electrode in the electrode system.