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The operation of a linear crystallizer, which performs crystallization extraction of uranium from a nitric acid solution of uranyl nitrate during nuclear reprocessing, is analyzed. Equations for the evaluation of the characteristics of the continuous operation of the apparatus are given, namely, the extraction efficiency of the crystal phase and the filling time of the storage container of the apparatus with the crystals of uranyl nitrate hexahydrate. The estimates are compared with the results of computer calculations and experimental data.

A mathematical model of the crystallization of uranium in a continuous linear crystallizer, designed for the crystallization separation of desired products in the processing of an irradiated nuclear fuel, is proposed. This model defines the dynamics of growth/dissolution of uranyl nitrate hexahydrate crystals in a nitric acid solution of uranyl nitrate. Results of a numerical simulation of the indicated process, pointing to the existence of stationary conditions in the working space of the crystallizer, are presented. On the basis of these results, the characteristic time of establishment of the stationary regime at different parameters of the process was estimated. The mathematical model proposed was validated on the basis of a comparison of the results of calculations carried out within its framework with experimental data.