Development of advanced technologies for photochemical tritium recovery. Bi-quarterly progress report, July 1, 1981-December 31, 1981. [From heavy water]

A process to photochemically remove tritium from heavy water has been described previously. Order-of-magnitude cost estimates for this process have been made, based on the specifications, assumptions, and parameters. The estimated costs of each unit and of the complete system are given. The total capital cost (excluding laser cost) of $650,000 corresponds to a cost of $0.08/Ci tritium removed, for plant amortization over one year. The electrical load is about 154 kW; this is equal to a cost of $0.01/Ci tritium removed (80% capacity factor, $0.05/kWh). Therefore the order-of-magnitude total cost of tritium removal is about $0.09/Ci. Experimental data on the D/sub 2/0/DTO/CDCl/sub 3/ system are needed to permit a detailed design of the exchange unit; the necessary experiments will soon be performed by a summer student. The stripper concept must also be better defined. With a good understanding of these units, the crucial parameters and tradeoffs can be identified and balanced in a final process design. The collaborative effort with the Savannah River Laboratory will help with process development, and will ensure that all Savannah River Plant requirements are met.