Unusual reactivity of metal oxides is often encountered at the nanoscale and these phenomena can be used for water purification. It was recently discovered that nanometric scheelite, CaWO<sub>4</sub>, undergoes unexpected ion exchange with heavy metals and actinides, sorbing the dangerous metal ions and releasing benign calcium ions into solution. Selectivity is for larger metal ions over smaller ones and is especially high for oxocations such as uranyl ions. Sorption capacities are extremely high – exceeding 100% by weight in several cases. The novel reagent has been used to remove heavy metals such as lead and cadmium and radionuclides such as strontium and uranium from water.

Water purification using the ion-exchange reactivity of nanometric metal oxides

2019 Fall National Meeting

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