Mixer-Settler
also known as box circuit · mixer settler
A mixer-settler pairs a mixing compartment with a settling compartment. In the mixer, an impeller disperses the aqueous and organic phases so the target metal transfers across the droplet interface. In the settler, the dispersion separates by gravity into a light organic layer and a heavy aqueous layer. Pumping between stages makes the circuit counter-current, and each stage is a physical box that can be sampled and adjusted independently.
Why it matters in practice
Stage efficiency of 90%+ per stage is measurable, and the phase boundary is visible, so performance is diagnosable rather than inferred. That predictability is why mixer-settlers remain the default for lab and pilot campaigns even where a column would use less floor space.
Where this appears on this site
Calculators that use this
Equipment referenced in this entry
PP Mixer Settler
9 Specifications · mixer settler
Lab Scale Mixer Settler
8 Specifications · mixer settler
Related terms
Reference entry GL-MIXER-SETTLER. Definitions on this page describe engineering practice in hydrometallurgical process design; they are not a substitute for test work on your own material.