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Title: Sulfate Separation from Aqueous Alkaline Solutions by Selective Crystallization of Alkali Metal Coordination Capsules

Journal Article · · Crystal Growth & Design
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/cg200515w· OSTI ID:1027827

Self-assembly of a tris(urea) anion receptor with Na{sub 2}SO{sub 4} or K{sub 2}SO{sub 4} yields crystalline capsules held together by coordinating Na{sup +} or K{sup +} cations and hydrogen-bonding water bridges, with the sulfate anions encapsulated inside urea-lined cavities. The sodium-based capsules can be selectively crystallized in excellent yield from highly competitive aqueous alkaline solutions ({approx}6 M Na{sup +}, pH 14), thereby providing for the first time a viable approach to sulfate separation from nuclear wastes.

Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
EM USDOE - Environmental Restoration and Waste Management (EM)
DOE Contract Number:
DE-AC05-00OR22725
OSTI ID:
1027827
Journal Information:
Crystal Growth & Design, Vol. 11, Issue 7; ISSN 1528-7483
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English