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Solvent extraction studies on the purification of uranium from zirconium rich sodium diuranate (SDU) feed was carried out using n-tri butyl phosphate (TBP) as extractant and n-decanol as phase modifier. The presence of Zr in SDU leached solution leads to the formation of third phase during liquid-liquid extraction of uranium which was successfully prevented by addition of n-decanol in 30% (v/v) TBP/ n-dodecane mixture. A seven stage counter current extraction of SDU feed solution followed by five stage stripping were carried out using optimum concentration of phase modifier 15% n-decanol-30% TBP in n-dodecane as solvent. Based on the findings a process flow-sheet has been developed for the purification of SDU to nuclear grade ammonium diuranate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]