Kinetic and thermodynamic aspects of U(VI) and Th(IV) sorption on a zeolitic volcanic tuff

• DOI: 10.1007/s10967-006-0473-2
• Publication Date: 2006-11-17T16:24:55Z
• Authors: D. Humelnicu; G. Drochioiu; M. I. Sturza; A. Cecal; K. Popa
• Keywords: Endothermic process

The sorption behavior of U(VI) and Th(IV) from simulated waste solutions on a zeolitic volcanic tuff from Nereju (Vrancea, Romania) has been studied in the absence of the ionic competition as a function of contact time, radioactive ions concentration, temperature and pH using a batch mode technique. The effect of the above-mentioned parameters on the sorption efficiency was discussed. The apparent thermodynamic parameters of the sorption of uranium and thorium onto the considered volcanic tuff were calculated, showing that the process is endothermic and higher temperatures favor the sorption process.