The development of more efficient nuclear waste remediation strategies remains a worthwhile goal due to the significant amounts of existing waste stored in depositories throughout the world. Additionally, the growing emphasis on nuclear power as an alternative energy source necessitates advanced remediation processes to make such an approach feasible. A major challenge in this regard is the efficient separation and processing of the lanthanide (Ln) and actinide (An) ions found within nuclear waste streams. These heavy metals are currently separated from each other by liquid-liquid extractions with carbamoylmethylphosphine oxide (CMPO) based ligands. Although this method can be used to extract and process certain An ions, a more efficient method is needed to achieve higher selectivity in such f-element sequestration. We are exploring the synthesis of novel tripodal CMPO ligands by attaching the basic chelating group to ligand scaffolds to test their ability to extract f-elements. In addition, we are conducting systematic studies of varying the ligand scaffold and CMPO substituents and probing the effect of the modifications on complex structure and extraction efficiencies via solution-state characterization including fluorescence spectroscopy. With the goal of creating a more selective ligand capable of strong binding, we hope to reduce the prevalence of the more radioactive ions in nuclear waste streams and extract the metals that are able to be reused again.

Synthesis and solution studies of new tripodal CMPO ligands for f-element extractions

246th National Meeting (2013)

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