Use of synthetic inorganic ion exchangers in strontium removal

Abstract

Strontium-90 is the most dangerous radioactive isotope of strontium, which is formed during the operation of nuclear reactors. It can also spread to the environment due to fallout from nuclear accidents and nuclear weapons tests. Removal of hazardous radionuclides and safe management of radioactive waste is a vital necessity. Ion exchange has been one of the most used methods in the management of liquid radioactive waste. Inorganic ion exchangers stand out for their thermal, chemical and radiation resistance. They show selectivity for certain cations. This review focused on removal of 90Sr by synthetic inorganic ion exchangers such as zeolites, titanates, titanosilicates, other acid salts, hydrous oxides and metal sulfides. Overall, more than 100 publications are reviewed and detailed data on strontium removal using inorganic ion exchangers are presented.