IPSAF · Innovative process for the synthesis of Alkali Ferrates in Fluidised Bed

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Project objective

This proposal deals with the transfer of knowledge in the field of the synthesis of the alkali ferrates containing hexavalent iron. The alkali metal ferrates become a substance of growing importance for the water and effluent treatments. This is due to the ir unique multi-functional nature (oxidation, flocculation, elimination of heavy metals, decomposition of organic matter...). Tight environmental regulations in EU encourage using ferrates as a prime choice decontamination agent since after their use, ferrates are transformed into iron hydroxides and/or oxides being eco-friendly. However, these findings are limited by difficulties related to instability of ferrates, the costly synthesis methods as well as low yield of ferrates. Experience acquired on the ferrate synthesis allows to a new, cost effective, clean and competitive process for the synthesis of alkali ferrates, particularly Na-ferrate. It based on a dry route gathered in two successive steps: First step consists in the premixing of NaOH with FeSO 4.xH2O allowing the coating of iron sulphate in the sodium hydroxide leading to a single solid with a homogenous particle size. Second step of is devoted to the synthesis of Na-ferrate in fluidized bed by oxidation in diluted chlorine of the single solid obtained in first step. This method uses the cheapest possible raw materials for the ferrate synthesis: iron sulphate (it is a waste of titanium oxide production); NaOH price is lower than that of KOH, and chlorine is the less expensive envisaged oxidizing a gent. Na-ferrate synthesis is conducted at room temperature, all materials used are found in the synthesis product, and the synthesis process doesn't generate any waste. Na-ferrate synthesis might be considered as 'green chemistry'. To our best knowledge, it is the first time in the world to produce Na-ferrate by this dry proposed process. The restatement of this process in larger laboratory scale is necessary prior to an eventual industrial transplantation

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

• INSTITUT NATIONAL POLYTECHNIQUE DE LORRAINECoordinatorCity levelFrance
• SOLVAY S. A.City levelBelgium

Links

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