The recent discovery of non-crystalline U(IV) species in the environment, and the mounting evidence of their larger lability compared to crystalline U(IV) minerals (e.g. uraninite), has necessitated a deeper understanding of how aquatic biogeochemistry affects different U(IV) species disproportionately. Furthermore, it has been shown that organic ligands may increase U(IV) solubility and mobilization rates. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that uraninite and non-crystalline U(IV) are mobilized by organic ligands at different rates. Batch experiments were done on crystalline chemogenic uraninite as well as biogenic non-crystalline U(IV) to elucidate mechanisms and rates of U(IV) mobilization by ligands (low-molecular-weight organic acids, synthetic chelators, siderophores). Equilibrium modelling was additionally done and compared to experimental findings. The results from these experiments provide valuable insights in regards to the propensity of U(IV) for mobilization in bioremediation scenarios that may be the basis for costly future decisions.

Ligand-induced mobilization of tetravalent uranium

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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