Effect of pH and ionic strength on U(IV) sorption to oxidized multiwalled carbon nanotubes

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have attracted multidisciplinary study because of their unique physicochemical properties. Herein, the sorption of U(VI) from aqueous solution to oxidized MWCNTs was investigated as a function of contact time, pH and ionic strength. The results indicate that U(VI) sorption on oxidized MWCNTs is strongly dependent on pH and ionic strength. The sorption of U(VI) is mainly dominated by surface complexation and cation exchange. The sorption of U(VI) on oxidized MWCNTs is quickly to achieve the sorption equilibrium. The sorption capacity calculated from sorption isotherms suggests that oxidized MWCNTs are suitable material in the preconcentration and solidification of U(VI) from large volumes of aqueous solutions.