Abstract
The sorption of Eu(ΙΙΙ) and U(VI) on microplastics (MP) has been investigated at pH 4 and increased metal ion concentrations ([Eu(ΙΙΙ)], [U(VI)] ≤ 1 mmol). The sorption studies have been carried out in batch type experiments and the characterisation of MP prior and after metal ion sorption was performed by FTIR and Raman, and Fluorescence (FS) and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopy, ζ-potential measurements and SEM-EDS. The data clearly indicate that up to a certain concentration the metal ion sorption occurs via electrostatic interaction resulting in a surface charge neutralization and further metal ion concentration results in surface precipitation in the form of microparticles. The uranium microparticles have a well defined crystalline structure whereas in the case of europium amorphous particles are formed. The formation of microparticles on the MP surfaces is of cardinal importance regarding both, the preparation of a new type of microparticles as well as the environmental impact of such microparticle structures.
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