Adsorption of Eu(III), Th(IV), and U(VI) by mesoporous solid materials bearing sulfonic acid and sulfamic acid functionalities

ABSTRACT

SBA-15 mesoporous materials modified by sulfonic acid and sulfamic acid functionalities, abbreviated as SBA-15/SO₃H and SBA-15/NHSO₃H, were synthesized and applied for the removal–separation of Eu(III), Th(IV), and U(VI). SBA-15/NHSO₃H showed an excellent selectivity toward U(VI), while SBA-15/SO₃H was more efficient adsorbent for Eu(III) and Th(IV). It was found that in the presence of KNO₃ (1 mol L⁻¹), the separation of Eu(III)/Th(IV) from their mixtures is possible. The results of the sorption behavior indicated a high adsorption capacity toward U(VI) and Th(IV) ions (140.5 and 106.7 mg g⁻¹, respectively) and ultrafast kinetics (15 min) in Eu(III) adsorption.

KEYWORDS:

• Adsorption
• sulfonic and sulfamic acids modified SBA-15
• Eu(III)
• Th(IV)
• U(VI)

Additional information

Funding

The Research Council of the University of Zanjan is profoundly acknowledged for supporting of this work during the years 2013–2015: [Grant Number 19839/92-9-11].