Selective matrix removal and ICP-OES determination of trace uranium, rare earth elements and yttrium in zircon minerals

Abstract

In this paper an accurate and highly reproducible separation method for determination of trace amounts of uranium and rare earth elements (La-Lu and Y; abreviated as REEs) in the refractory zircon mineral concentrates by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES) is described. The precipitation method used for separation of zirconium is simple, selective, rapid and environmental friendly. All the 16 geochemically important analytes were determined in a single solution with marginal improvement in detection limits (1.2-4.5 times) after separation. The method was validated by analyzing certified reference materials.

Local Structure Investigations of Sequential Sorption of U and Fe on Polyacrylamide Hydroxamic Acid Resins

“…In spite of radio-toxicity, it reflects its unique quality in nuclear energy contribution. Since it is abundantly used in the nuclear power segment, safe disposal of related waste effluent by a selective, stable matrix is an extremely important issue. − Even at low concentrations, uranium is toxic mainly because of its persistent and accumulative nature, and chronic exposure of this heavy metal is known to cause bone degeneration and liver, lung, and blood damage, with the safe limit for drinking water being 60 ppb . Therefore, separation and recovery of uranium are of great practical significance.…”

“…Therefore, separation and recovery of uranium are of great practical significance. Also, reutilization of uranium resources and sustainable development of nuclear energy are essential for the protection of human health and to create an eco-friendly environment. − Various stable and selective matrices have been studied over the years for U disposal, e.g., alginate polymer beads, Mg–Al hydrotalcite and a natural zeolite, high temperature fusion with a flux, carboxyl-functionalized graphene oxide, maghemite nanocomposite, covalent organic frameworks, etc.…”