Studies in the Reaction-Separation Method for the Preparation of Barium Chloride from Barite Using Ion Exchange

We report the application of an ion-exchange process as a reaction-separation strategy for the preparation of barium chloride from barite ore and sodium chloride. Experimental studies were carried out to evaluate the process efficiency and purity/yield of barium chloride using a strong acid cation-exchange resin, Tulsion T-42. The effects of various process parameters such as concentration of barium sulfide and concentration of sodium chloride were investigated, and optimization of the experimental variables was attempted. The results indicate the developed strategy to be attractive and an alternative route to existing processes. The methodology developed has large potential for the inorganic chemical process industry in general.