Hafnium and zirconium are very similar in chemical properties and their industrial applications in nuclear energy, semiconductors, space, and aeronautics. Various phosphate derivatives of zirconium and hafnium also possess ion exchange capabilities due to their two-dimensional layered structure. Several studies in the literature have shown ion exchange capabilities for some of these compounds, but a comparative analysis has not been conducted between Zr and Hf or crystalline and amorphous materials. We have conducted broad comparative studies of the ion exchange behavior of amorphous and crystalline Zr/Hf phosphate materials. For ion exchange tests, cesium and strontium ions were used as surrogates for mobile radionuclides in the environment, impacting sites of nuclear wastes, and reactor accidents (i.e. Fukushima). Preliminary results indicate the absorption of both cesium and strontium ions in these solid amorphous and crystalline materials. In mixed solutions with the introduction of sodium ions to simulate seawater, selective absorption of cesium or strontium ions was observed during ion exchange in both the amorphous and crystalline material. Other factors such as pH and synthesis methods were also investigated to determine influences on comparative ion exchange capabilities. Overall, this study helps to develop selective materials for sequestering radionuclides, as well as provide a targeted investigation of ion exchange capacities for amorphous and crystalline Hf/Zr phosphate materials.

Comparative characterization and analysis of crystalline and amorphous zirconium and hafnium phosphates for sequestering mobile radionuclides in the environment

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.