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Biosorption of actinides from dilute waste actinide solution by egg-shell membrane
S Ishikawa1, K Suyama, I Satoh
1Department of Applied Bioorganic Chemistry, Sendai, Japan.
Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology
|July 10, 1999
Summary
Hen egg-shell membrane effectively removes radioactive uranium and thorium from aqueous solutions. This protein-based material shows high binding capacity and is useful for radioactive waste filtration technologies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
- Radiochemistry
Background:
- Radioactive element removal from aqueous solutions is critical.
- Hen egg-shell membrane (ESM) is a stable, insoluble protein with heavy metal binding capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the binding efficiency of uranium (U) and thorium (Th) to ESM.
- To evaluate ESM's potential in actinide removal from aqueous solutions.
Main Methods:
- Batch laboratory experiments were conducted, including pH profile, time dependency, and capacity studies.
- Adsorption isotherms were developed and fitted to Langmuir and Freundlich models.
- Uranium and thorium binding to ESM was analyzed under varying conditions.
Main Results:
- Optimal binding pH was approximately 6.0 for uranium and 3.0 for thorium.
- Maximum uptakes were approximately 240 mg U/g and 60 mg Th/g dry weight ESM, fitting Langmuir and Freundlich models.
- Adsorption capacity increased with salt concentration and was effective for dilute uranium solutions.
Conclusions:
- ESM is a highly effective material for removing actinides like uranium and thorium from aqueous solutions.
- ESM demonstrates significant potential for application in filtration technologies for radioactive waste management.