An ion-exchange resin or ion-exchange polymer is a resin or polymer that acts as a medium for ion exchange. It is an insoluble matrix (or support structure) normally in the form of small (0.25–0.5 mm radius) microbeads, usually white or yellowish, fabricated from an organic polymer substrate.
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Nuclear power plants are currently operated in 31 countries with 15 more countries currently planning the construction of their first nuclear power plants. Nuclear power generation will continue to grow as a strategic option due to the increasing cost of fossil fuel based energy and the pressure to reduce greenhouse gases.Ion exchange resins in both bead and powder form are used extensively in all types of nuclear power plants throughout the world. Ion exchange systems are the most cost effective and in some cases the only way to produce water with the quality required for proper plant operation.Ion exchange plays a vital role in the elimination of soluble chemical components that contribute to corrosion as well as removing corrosion products and radioactive isotopes from the different coolant circuits. The objective of controlling these chemistries is to protect the nuclear generating systems from corrosion, extend the system life and maintain a safe working environment in and around the plant.
An ion-exchange resin or ion-exchange polymer is an insoluble matrix normally in the form of small beads, usually white or yellowish, fabricated from an organic polymer substrate. The beads are typically porous, providing a high surface area. The trapping of ions occurs with the accompanying releasing of other ions; thus the process is called ion-exchange. There are multiple types of ion-exchange resin.
Most commercial resins are made of polystyrene sulfonate.Ion-exchange resins are widely used in different separation, purification, and decontamination processes. The most common examples are water softening and water purification.
In many cases ion-exchange resins were introduced in such processes as a more flexible alternative to the use of natural or artificial zeolites. Also, ion exchange resins are highly effective in the biodiesel filtration process.This video is targeted to blind users.Attribution:Article text available under CC-BY-SACreative Commons image source in video.