SBIR Phase I: The ResonantSonic Enhanced Mixer and Coalescer (RSEMC) as an Advanced Solvent Extraction Technology

Resodyn Corporation, Butte MT

Investigators

Abstract

This Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of using an agitation device based on a resonating elastic member for dispersing and coalescing immiscible liquids. This will have a significant impact in the liquid processing for solvent extraction of metals. The proposed technology offers a mixing regime that promotes high mass transfer, yet easy disengagement between immiscible liquids by forming uniform droplet dispersions and creating interfacial activity that increases mass transport. The post-contact phase disengagement can be further enhanced by applying higher frequency energy. The near term commercial application would be presented by the changing technological landscape of the international mining and metals industries. The shift to leaching technology has created a need for advanced solvent extraction equipment. Applications also exist in the pharmaceutical industry, where solvent extraction is an entrenched and accepted approach to recovering products from microbial fermentation broths.