A Probe in to Site Occupancy of Uranium in Barium Aluminium Borate (BaAl2B2O7) Matrix by EXAFS and its Photoluminescence Studies

Abstract

AbstractA host matrix with a potential of incorporating heavy element like uranium, that have several forms of stabilization is the key interest. Uranium-doped BaAl2B2O7 is synthesized through solution combustion synthesis method. The luminescence studies indicate suitability of this alumino borate matrix to stabilize uranium as uranate (UO66−). The uranium life-time values suggest uranium to be surrounded by two different environments with varied defect concentration. The site occupancy of uranium in BaAl2B2O7 is probed through EXAFS studies. It is observed that the preferred sites for uranium incorporation is the Al3+ regular lattice sites.