Studies on UO22+ ion sorption from aqueous solutions by modified heptene-1–maleic anhydride–styrene terpolymer

Abstract

Sorption of uranyl ions from aqueous solutions by the modified monoallylic esther of heptene-1–maleic anhydride–styrene terpolymer with methylmethacrylate was studied. Sorption degree and static sorption capacity were determined under various values of pH of medium, initial concentrations of uranyl ions and sorbent weights. The synthesised sorbent has a network structure and contains functional groups –COOH, –OCO– and =CO, capable of complexing with uranyl ions. It has been established that, by variation of UO22+ ion concentration and sorbent weight at pH 6 and sorption degree of 87·5–93·2%, i.e. 441–514 mg g−1 (3·27–3·81 mg Eq g−1), sorption capacity can be reached. Desorption of UO22+ ions from sorbent are carried out by 20–25% water solutions of hydrochloric and nitric acids. The synthesised sorbent could be used for extraction of uranyl ions from aqueous solutions.