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Numerical optimization of process parameters in HLLW spray calcination
Feng Gao1,2, Yuzhou Ming2, Yajun Zhang1
1College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China.
Plos One
|July 29, 2026
Summary
This study optimized high-level liquid waste spray calcination by simulating combustion processes. Key findings show elevated wall temperature and specific inlet velocity enhance sodium oxide (Na2O) yield, improving solid product recovery.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Engineering
- Nuclear Waste Management
- Computational Fluid Dynamics
Background:
- High-level liquid waste (HLLW) spray calcination faces challenges with incomplete reactions and solids accumulation.
- Effective management of HLLW is critical for nuclear safety and environmental protection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and optimize parameters affecting sodium oxide (Na2O) formation during HLLW spray calcination.
- To address issues of incomplete reactions and solids accumulation in the calcination process.
Main Methods:
- Development of a 3D computational domain with a species transport model.
- Simulation of the combustion of nitric acid, sucrose, and nitrate solutions.
- Systematic investigation of wall heating temperature, porous media porosity, inlet velocity, and reactant concentrations.
Main Results:
- Sodium oxide (Na2O) mass fraction increased from 0.089 to 0.360 as wall temperature rose from 200 °C to 1200 °C.
- Optimal inlet velocity for reaction kinetics was found to be 0.01 m/s, yielding a Na2O mass fraction of 0.287.
- Doubling sucrose concentration significantly boosted Na2O yield compared to increases in nitric acid or nitrates.
Conclusions:
- Elevating wall temperature, maintaining an inlet velocity around 0.01 m/s, and optimizing the sucrose reductant ratio are crucial for enhancing solid product recovery.
- The study provides a computational framework for optimizing HLLW spray calcination parameters.
- Findings contribute to improving the efficiency and safety of nuclear waste treatment processes.
