Sorption and separation of some elements of nuclear importance using Chelex-100

Chelex-100, in the anionic form has been studied for its ability to perform selective separation and concentration of some metal ions of nuclear importance from mineral acid solutions. The sorption behavior of Zr(IV)−Nb(V), Mo(VI), Tc(VII), Te(IV) and U(VI) from solutions of hydrochloric and sulphuric acids on Chelex-100 has been studied under static and dynamic conditions. Mo(VI) and Tc(VII) have been concentrated on the resin from hydrochloric or sulphuric acid solutions at low acidities probably, as the anions MoO42− and TcO4−, respectively. Te(IV) has been isolated from hydrochloric acid solutions of normalities ≥6 in the form of the anionic chloro complex TeCl62−. Optimum conditions for elution and separation of Mo(VI), Tc(VII), Te(IV) and U(VI) were recommended.