Illite-supported nanoscale zero-valent iron for removal of 238U from aqueous solution: characterization, reactivity and mechanism

In this work, illite was used to support zero-valent iron nanoparticles to remove U-238 in aqueous solutions. Compared to nZVI, I-nZVI shows high stability and removal efficiency. Removal process of U on I-nZVI can be concluded into four stages in illite dominated zone, Fe-0 released zone, ferrous dominated zone and reaction equilibrium zone. The study shows that illite is a good dispersant and stabilizer which decreases the aggregation of nZVI and improves the activity of Fe-0. Removal capacity of U on I-nZVI achieves 1.79 mu g/mg. I-nZVI is an efficient and promising remediation material for waste-soluble uranium compounds.