Single-use surgical face masks as radionuclide (U-232 and Ra-226) carriers

The adsorption of U-232 and Ra-226 at ultra-trace levels by single-use surgical face masks has been investigated in different aqueous media (e.g. de-ionized water, seawater, ground water and treated waste water). The measurements show that under the given concentration levels (picomole range) there is significant adsorption of the radionuclides by the face masks in laboratory and environmental waters. Evaluation of the adsorption data reveals that the partition coefficient values (K-d) differ significantly between the two radionuclides and that particularly in the case of uranium, pH and solution composition govern the adsorption efficiency because of hydrolysis and complex formation reactions. Based on the experimental results and having in mind the enormous amounts of uncontrolled face mask disposal, these are expected to play a significant role as radionuclide carries in the environment. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The adsorption of U-232 and Ra-226 by single-use surgical face masks in various aqueous media has been studied, showing significant adsorption at picomole concentrations. The partition coefficient values differ significantly between the two radionuclides, with adsorption efficiency of uranium being particularly affected by pH and solution composition. Uncontrolled disposal of face masks is expected to contribute significantly to radionuclide transport in the environment.