Thorium Removal, Recovery and Recycling: A Membrane Challenge for Urban Mining
Geani Teodor Man1,2, Paul Constantin Albu3, Aurelia Cristina Nechifor1
1Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Engineering Department, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania.
Membranes
|September 27, 2023
Summary
Thorium, despite low radioactivity, is highly toxic. This study explores using advanced membrane processes for thorium removal, recovery, and recycling from industrial waste, aiding urban mining efforts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Thorium is a toxic element, posing health risks due to environmental contamination.
- Industrial residues containing thorium require effective management and recovery strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the application of membrane processes for thorium removal, recovery, and recycling.
- To explore thorium valorization through urban mining from industrial waste.
Main Methods:
- Review of thorium speciation, determination methods, and classic extraction technologies.
- Analysis of membrane processes including electrodialysis, liquid membranes, and hybrid systems.
- Focus on electrochemical potential differences for thorium separation.
Main Results:
- Membrane processes offer viable pathways for thorium management in waste streams.
- Potential for urban mining to recover and recycle thorium from industrial residues.
- Understanding thorium speciation is crucial for effective removal.
Conclusions:
- Membrane technologies can significantly advance thorium recovery and recycling from industrial waste.
- This approach supports sustainable urban mining and resource valorization.
- Effective management of toxic thorium species is essential for public health.
Keywords:
thorium determinationthorium membrane concentrationthorium membrane separationthorium recoverythorium recyclingthorium removalthorium separationthorium separation processesthorium transportMore Related Videos
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