New anion-exchange resins for improved separations of nuclear materials

Technical Report · Mon Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1998

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/13730· OSTI ID:13730

Barr, M E; Bartsch, R A

'The overall objective of this research is to develop a predictive capability which allows the facile design and implementation of multi-functionalized anion-exchange materials which selectively sorb metal complexes of interest from targeted process, waste, and environmental streams. The basic scientific issues addressed are actinide complex speciation along with modeling of the metal complex/functional-site interactions in order to determine optimal binding-site characteristics. The new ion-exchange resins interface the rapidly developing field of ion-specific chelating ligands with robust, commercial ion-exchange technology. Various Focus Areas and Crosscutting Programs have described needs that would be favorably impacted by the new materials: Efficient Separations and Processing; Plutonium; Plumes; Mixed Waste; High-Level Tank Waste. Sites within the DOE complex which would benefit from the improved anion-exchange technology include Hanford, INEL, Los Alamos, Oak Ridge, and Savannah River. As of April 1998, this report summarizes work after 1.6 years of a 3-year project. The authors technical approach combines empirical testing with theoretical modeling (applied in an iterative mode) in order to determine optimal binding-site characteristics. They determine actinide-complex speciation in specific media, then develop models for the metal complex/functional-site interactions Synthesis and evaluation of multi-functionalized extractants and ion-exchange materials that implement key features of the optimized binding site provide feedback to the modeling and design activities. Resin materials which actively facilitate the uptake of actinide complexes from solution should display both improved selectivity and kinetic properties. The implementation of the bifunctionality concept involves N-derivatization of pyridinium units from a base poly(4-vinylpyridine) resin with a second cationic site such that the two anion-exchange sites are linked by spacer arms of varying length and flexibility.'

• Research Organization: Los Alamos National Lab., NM (US)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Environmental Management (EM), Office of Science and Risk Policy
• OSTI ID: 13730
• Report Number(s): EMSP-54770--98; ON: DE00013730
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

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54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
CHEMICAL PREPARATION
CHEMICAL WASTES
Chemical Preparation
Chemical Wastes
DECOMMISSIONING
DECONTAMINATION
Decommissioning
Decontamination
HIGH-LEVEL RADIOACTIVE WASTES
High-Level Radioactive Wastes
ION EXCHANGE
Ion Exchange
LIGANDS
Ligands
PROGRESS REPORT
Progress Report
RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS
RADIOACTIVE WASTES
REMEDIAL ACTION
Radioactive Materials
Radioactive Wastes
Remedial Action