The uptake of caesium and strontium radioisotopes onto clays

Abstract

Montmorillonite and illite clays have been examined for their ability to take up caesium and strontium radioisotopes from solution. Uptakes onto near homoionic Na, K, NH4, Mg, Ca, and Sr clays have been assessed by the construction of ion exchange isotherms. Effects of changes in concentration (total normality) and temperature have been assessed. Where possible, thermodynamic constants have been calculated and selectivity series constructed. It is shown that both clays are suitable for uptake of Cs, but not Sr.