Aerodynamic processes Enriched uranium

schematic diagram of aerodynamic nozzle. many thousands of these small foils combined in enrichment unit.

aerodynamic enrichment processes include becker jet nozzle techniques developed e. w. becker , associates using liga process , vortex tube separation process. these aerodynamic separation processes depend upon diffusion driven pressure gradients, gas centrifuge. in general have disadvantage of requiring complex systems of cascading of individual separating elements minimize energy consumption. in effect, aerodynamic processes can considered non-rotating centrifuges. enhancement of centrifugal forces achieved dilution of uf6 hydrogen or helium carrier gas achieving higher flow velocity gas obtained using pure uranium hexafluoride. uranium enrichment corporation of south africa (ucor) developed , deployed continuous helikon vortex separation cascade high production rate low enrichment , substantially different semi-batch pelsakon low production rate high enrichment cascade both using particular vortex tube separator design, , both embodied in industrial plant. demonstration plant built in brazil nuclei, consortium led industrias nucleares brasil used separation nozzle process. methods have high energy consumption , substantial requirements removal of waste heat; none still in use.