Gregory B. Cotten1, H. Bradley Eldredge2, James D. Navratil3
1 Chemistry Department, United States Naval Academy, 572 Holloway Road, Annapolis, MD 21402, U.S.A.
2 Eldredge Engineering, 1111 Caysie Ln, Idaho Falls, ID 83402, U.S.A.
3 Environmental Engineering and Science, Clemson University, 342 Computer Court, Anderson, South Carolina 29625-6510, U.S.A.
A magnetic filtration/adsorption process has been evaluated for development for groundwater treatment at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL). The process uses inexpensive magnetite (FeO·Fe2O3) in a supported mode surrounded by an external magnetic field. Prior studies have been shown to remove actinides and fission products in laboratory studies. This research has focused on supporting magnetite in an economical manner that promotes both magnetic filtration/adsorption of metal species and satisfactory water flow. The process utilize the natural metal ion adsorptive properties of magnetite as well as the High Gradient Magnetic Separation (HGMS) effect for removing metal colloids and submicron particles Results are presented on scoping studies for developing the process for groundwater treatment at the INEEL.