X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy investigation of the interaction of U(VI) and Fe(III) with natural humic acid in aqueous solutions

Complexes of U(VI) and Fe(III) with natural humic acid (NHA) were studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It follows from the analysis of the uranium and iron concentrations at the surface and in the bulk of the humates that the reaction in solution is heterogeneous. The NHA reacts as a particle. In solutions containing either U(VI) or Fe(III), NHA reacts similar with Fe(III) and U(VI). However, in a mixed solution of Fe(III) and U(VI), NHA reacts predominantly with iron. In comparison to Fe(III) complexes, the complexes with U(VI) are formed mostly in the inner of the NHA particle. Therefore, the concentration ratio U/Fe as measured by XPS increases by powdering of the particles. Salts of Fe(III) can be used to inhibit the uranium migration in form of its soluble humates.