Removal of radioactive cations and anions from polluted water using ligand-modified colloid-enhanced ultrafiltration. 1998 annual progress report

'The objectives of this project are to determine the feasibility of and develop optimum conditions for the use of colloid-enhanced ultrafiltration (CEUF) methods to remove and recover radionuclides and associated toxic non-radioactive contaminants from polluted water. The target metal ions are uranium, plutonium, thorium, strontium and lead along with chromium (as chromate). Anionic chelating agents, used in conjunction with polyelectrolyte colloids, provide a means to confer selectivity required for removal of the target cations. This project entails a comprehensive study of the effects of solution composition and filtration unit operating parameters on the separation efficiency and selectivity of ligand modified colloid-enhanced ultrafiltration (LM-CEUF) processes. Problem areas identified by the Office of Environmental Management addressed by this project include removal of hazardous ionic materials from groundwater, aqueous waste solutions and mixed waste. Separation and concentration of the target ions will result in a substantial reduction in the volume of material requiring long-term storage. This report summarizes work after 8 months of a 3-year project.