Selective separation of actinyl(V,VI) cations from aqueous solutions by Chelex-100

Experimental studies on the selectivity of Chelex-100 resin for the separation of actinide cations at different oxidation states (III, IV, V and VI) from aqueous solution have shown that Chelex-100 presents increased selectivity for actinyl cations at near neutral pH (pH similar to 4.5). The effect of salinity on the chemical recovery indicates that the increased selectivity could be attributed to the formation of complexes with specific interactions and the pH area, in which the formation of the respective complexes is favored, indicates the occurrence of guest-host interactions. The specific interaction of Chelex-100 with actinyl cations could be of particular interest not only for the separation and preconcentration of uranium from natural waters prior its analysis but also for the recovery of uranium from seawater on a large scale.