A study of the uptake of thorium onto zeolites

Jozefowicz, LC

Abstract

The presence of the a- and S- emitters, uranium and thorium,
in industrial waste streams poses a serious threat to the environment.
This is due to both the potentially damaging nature of the radioactive
emissions when incorporated into biological systems and to the general
toxicity of these heavy metals.
A programme of work to remove these heavy metals especially
thorium, from a particular raffinate was undertaken. It was desirable
to use zeolites specifically to remove thorium and some uranium. A
survey of the uptake of thorium onto a ndide range of zeolites, both
natural and synthetic is included. It was necessary to find a
zeolite which could take up the radioactive cations, resist acid
attack and which was suitable for use in a large scale, industrial
removal plant.
Due to the nature of the radiochemical components in
conjunction with zeolite behaviour, several radiochemical techniques
had to be modified to provide analytical methods for this project.
Effects of competing cations on the uptake of thorium onto zeolites
were also studied.
The best all-round candidate was found to be an Eastgate
zeolite, although clinoptilolite showed a reasonable uptake of
thorium. The work carried out attempted to elucidate the mechanisms
of thorium removal from solution.

Citation

Jozefowicz, L. A study of the uptake of thorium onto zeolites. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Sep 26, 2011
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 26, 2011
• Award Date: Jan 1, 1989