1
|
Tang Y, Chen X, Hou L, He J, Sha A, Zou L, Peng L, Li Q. Effects of uranium mining on the rhizospheric bacterial communities of three local plants on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-34335-1. [PMID: 39044055 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34335-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we used 16S high-throughput sequencing to investigate the effects of uranium mining on the rhizospheric bacterial communities and functions of three local plant species, namely, Artemisia frigida, Acorus tatarionwii Schott., and Salix oritrepha Schneid. The results showed that uranium mining significantly reduced the diversity of rhizospheric bacteria in the three local plant species, including the Shannon index and Simpson index (P < 0.05). Interestingly, we found that Sphingomonas and Pseudotrichobacter were enriched in the rhizosphere soil of the three local plants from uranium mining areas, indicating their important ecological role. The three plants were enriched in various dominant rhizospheric bacterial populations in the uranium mining area, including Vicinamidobacteriaceae, Nocardioides, and Gaiella, which may be related to the unique microecological environment of the plant rhizosphere. The rhizospheric bacterial community of A. tatarionwii plants from tailings and open-pit mines also showed a certain degree of differentiation, indicating that uranium mining is the main factor driving the differentiation of plant rhizosphere soil communities on the plateau. Functional prediction revealed that rhizospheric bacteria from different plants have developed different functions to cope with stress caused by uranium mining activities, including enhancing the translational antagonist Rof, the translation initiation factor 2B subunit, etc. This study explores for the first time the impact of plateau uranium mining activities on the rhizosphere microecology of local plants, promoting the establishment of effective soil microecological health monitoring indicators, and providing a reference for further soil pollution remediation in plateau uranium mining areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanmou Tang
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaodie Chen
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Liming Hou
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing He
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ajia Sha
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Liang Zou
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lianxin Peng
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lu C, Xiu W, Yang B, Zhang H, Lian G, Zhang T, Bi E, Guo H. Natural Attenuation of Groundwater Uranium in Post-Neutral-Mining Sites Evidenced from Multiple Isotopes and Dissolved Organic Matter. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:12674-12684. [PMID: 38965983 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c04498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Although natural attenuation is an economic remediation strategy for uranium (U) contamination, the role of organic molecules in driving U natural attenuation in postmining aquifers is not well-understood. Groundwaters were sampled to investigate the chemical, isotopic, and dissolved organic matter (DOM) compositions and their relationships to U natural attenuation from production wells and postmining wells in a typical U deposit (the Qianjiadian U deposit) mined by neutral in situ leaching. Results showed that Fe(II) concentrations and δ34SSO4 and δ18OSO4 values increased, but U concentrations decreased significantly from production wells to postmining wells, indicating that Fe(III) reduction and sulfate reduction were the predominant processes contributing to U natural attenuation. Microbial humic-like and protein-like components mediated the reduction of Fe(III) and sulfate, respectively. Organic molecules with H/C > 1.5 were conducive to microbe-mediated reduction of Fe(III) and sulfate and facilitated the natural attenuation of dissolved U. The average U attenuation rate was -1.07 mg/L/yr, with which the U-contaminated groundwater would be naturally attenuated in approximately 11.2 years. The study highlights the specific organic molecules regulating the natural attenuation of groundwater U via the reduction of Fe(III) and sulfate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chongsheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Groundwater Circulation and Environment Evolution, School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Wei Xiu
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Groundwater Circulation and Environment Evolution, School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
- Institute of Earth Sciences, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Bing Yang
- The Fourth Research and Design Engineering Corporation of CNNC, Shijiazhuang 050021, China
| | - Haoyan Zhang
- The Fourth Research and Design Engineering Corporation of CNNC, Shijiazhuang 050021, China
| | - Guoxi Lian
- The Fourth Research and Design Engineering Corporation of CNNC, Shijiazhuang 050021, China
| | - Tianjing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- Institute of Earth Sciences, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Erping Bi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Groundwater Circulation and Environment Evolution, School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Huaming Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Groundwater Circulation and Environment Evolution, School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang J, Hu H, Lin K, Wei X, Beiyuan J, Xiong X, Wan Y, Deng P, Wu H, Kang M, Liu J, Dong X. Pb isotopic fingerprinting of uranium pollution: New insight on uranium transport in stream-river sediments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134417. [PMID: 38691992 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Uranium mill tailings (UMT) present a significant environmental concern due to high levels of radioactive and toxic elements, including uranium (U), thorium (Th), and lead (Pb), which can pose serious health risks to aquatic ecosystems. While Pb isotopic tracers have been widely utilized in environmental studies to identify elemental sources and geological processes, their application in U geochemistry remains relatively limited. In this study, we investigate the distribution and migration of U in stream-river sediments surrounding a decommissioned U hydrometallurgical area, employing Pb isotopes as tracers. Our findings reveal significant enrichment and ecological risk of U, Pb, and Th in the sediments. Uranium predominantly associates with quartz and silicate minerals, and its dispersion process is influenced by continuous leaching and precipitation cycles of typical U-bearing minerals. Furthermore, we establish a compelling positive relationship (r2 = 0.97) between 208Pb/207Pb and 206Pb/207Pb in the stream-river sediments and sediment derived from UMT. Application of a binary Pb mixing model indicates that anthropogenic hydrometallurgical activities contribute to 2.5-62.7% of the stream-river sediments. Notably, these values are lower than the 6.6-89.6% recorded about 10 years ago, prior to the decommissioning of the U hydrometallurgical activity. Our results underscore the continued risk of U pollution dispersion even after decommission, highlighting the long-term environmental impact of UMT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering; Key Laboratory of Waters Quality & Conservation in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, 510006 Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiyao Hu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering; Key Laboratory of Waters Quality & Conservation in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, 510006 Guangzhou, China
| | - Ke Lin
- Earth Observatory of Singapore and Asian School of the Environment, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Xudong Wei
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering; Key Laboratory of Waters Quality & Conservation in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, 510006 Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingzi Beiyuan
- School of Environment and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinni Xiong
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering; Key Laboratory of Waters Quality & Conservation in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, 510006 Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuebing Wan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering; Key Laboratory of Waters Quality & Conservation in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, 510006 Guangzhou, China
| | - Pengyuan Deng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering; Key Laboratory of Waters Quality & Conservation in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, 510006 Guangzhou, China
| | - Hanyu Wu
- Sino-French Institute of Nuclear Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Mingliang Kang
- Sino-French Institute of Nuclear Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Juan Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering; Key Laboratory of Waters Quality & Conservation in the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, 510006 Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xuhui Dong
- School of Geography and Remote Sensing, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu Y, Wu Z, Zhang T, Zhao J, Shen C, Tang H, Shang J, Huang Y, Huang L. Acidithiobacillus species drive the formation of ferric-silica cemented microstructure: Insights into early hardpan development for mine site rehabilitation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169163. [PMID: 38072279 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023]
Abstract
Hardpan-based profiles naturally formed under semi-arid climatic conditions have substantial potential in rehabilitating sulfidic tailings, resulting from their aggregation microstructure regulated by Fe-Si cements. Nevertheless, eco-engineered approaches for accelerating the formation of complex cementation structure remain unclear. The present study aims to investigate the microbial functions of extremophiles on mineral dissolution, oxidation, and aggregation (cementation) through a microcosm experiment containing pyrites and polysilicates, of which are dominant components in typical sulfidic tailings. Microspectroscopic analysis revealed that pyrite was rapidly dissolved and massive microbial corrosion pits were displayed on pyrite surfaces. Synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy demonstrated that approximately 30 % pyrites were oxidized to jarosite-like (ca. 14 %) and ferrihydrite-like minerals (ca. 16 %) in talc group, leading to the formation of secondary Fe precipitates. The Si ions co-dissolved from polysilicates may be embedded into secondary Fe precipitates, while these clustered Fe-Si precipitates displayed distinct morphology (e.g., "circular" shaped in the talc group, "fine-grained" shaped in the chlorite group, and "donut" shaped in the muscovite group). Moreover, the precipitates could join together and act as cementing agents aggregating mineral particles together, forming macroaggregates in talc and chlorite groups. The present findings revealed critical microbial functions on accelerating mineral dissolution, oxidation, and aggregation of pyrite and various silicates, which provided the eco-engineered feasibility of hardpan-based technology for mine site rehabilitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunjia Liu
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China; Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Zeqi Wu
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Tingrui Zhang
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Jiachen Zhao
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Chongyang Shen
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Huaizhi Tang
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Jianying Shang
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yuanfang Huang
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China.
| | - Longbin Huang
- Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Reymond M, Descostes M, Besançon C, Leermakers M, Billon S, Cherfallot G, Muguet M, Beaucaire C, Smolikova V, Patrier P. Assessment of 226Ra and U colloidal transport in a mining environment. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 338:139497. [PMID: 37451635 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The colloidal transport of trace (Fe, Al, Ba, Pb, Sr, U) and ultra-trace (226Ra) elements was studied in a mining environment. An original approach combining 0.45 μm filtered water sampling, the Diffusive Gradient in Thin films (DGT) technique, mineralogical characterization, and geochemical modelling was developed and tested at 17 sampling points. DGT was used for the truly dissolved fraction of the elements of interest, while the 0.45 μm filtration includes both colloidal and truly dissolved fractions (together referred to as total dissolved fraction). Results indicated a colloidal fraction for Al (up to 50%), Ba (up to 86%), and Fe (up to 99%) explained by the presence of submicrometric grains of kaolinite, barite, and ferrihydrite, respectively. Furthermore, the total dissolved 226Ra concentration in the water samples reached up to 10-25 Bq/L (1.2-3.0 10-12 mol/L) at 3 sampling points, while the truly dissolved aqueous 226Ra concentrations were in the mBq/L range. Such high total dissolved concentrations are explained by retention on colloidal barite, accounting for 95% of the total dissolved 226Ra concentration. The distribution of 226Ra between the truly dissolved and colloidal fractions was accurately reproduced using a (Rax,Ba1-x)SO4 solid solution, with values of the Guggenheim parameter a0 close to ideality. 226Ra sorption on ferrihydrite and kaolinite, other minerals well known for their retention properties, could not explain the measured colloidal fractions despite their predominance. This illustrates the key role of barite in such environments. The measured concentrations of total dissolved U were very low at all the sampling points (<4.5 10-10 mol/L) and the colloidal fraction of U accounted for less than 65%. U sorption on ferrihydrite could account for the colloidal fraction. This original approach can be applied to other trace and ultra-trace elements to complement when necessary classical environmental surveys usually performed by filtration on 0.45 μm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marine Reymond
- Institut de Chimie des Milieux et des Matériaux de Poitiers (IC2MP), UMR 7285, Université de Poitiers, CNRS, HydrASA, F-86073, Poitiers, France
| | - Michael Descostes
- Orano Environmental R&D Dpt, 125 avenue de Paris, 92320, Châtillon, France; Centre de Géosciences, MINES Paris, PSL University, 35 rue St Honoré, 77300, Fontainebleau, France
| | - Clémence Besançon
- Orano Environmental R&D Dpt, 125 avenue de Paris, 92320, Châtillon, France.
| | - Martine Leermakers
- Analytical, Environmental & Geo-Chemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussels (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sophie Billon
- Institut de Chimie des Milieux et des Matériaux de Poitiers (IC2MP), UMR 7285, Université de Poitiers, CNRS, HydrASA, F-86073, Poitiers, France
| | - Gaël Cherfallot
- Institut de Chimie des Milieux et des Matériaux de Poitiers (IC2MP), UMR 7285, Université de Poitiers, CNRS, HydrASA, F-86073, Poitiers, France
| | - Marie Muguet
- Orano Environmental R&D Dpt, 125 avenue de Paris, 92320, Châtillon, France.
| | | | - Vendula Smolikova
- Analytical, Environmental & Geo-Chemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussels (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Patricia Patrier
- Institut de Chimie des Milieux et des Matériaux de Poitiers (IC2MP), UMR 7285, Université de Poitiers, CNRS, HydrASA, F-86073, Poitiers, France
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sirven JB, Szenknect S, Vors E, Anzalone E, Benarib S, Sarr PM, Reiller PE, Mesbah A, Dacheux N, Vercouter T, Descostes M. Time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy and chemometrics for fast identification of U(VI)-bearing minerals in a mining context. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2023; 296:122671. [PMID: 37031480 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2023.122671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the potential of time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (TRLFS) combined with chemometric methods for fast identification of U(VI)-bearing minerals in a mining context. We analyzed a sample set which was representative of several environmental conditions. The set consisted of 80 uranium-bearing samples related to mining operations, including natural minerals, minerals with uranium sorbed on the surface, and synthetic phases prepared and characterized specifically for this study. The TRLF spectra were processed using the Ward algorithm and the K-nearest neighbors (KNN) method to reveal similarities between samples and to rapidly identify the uranium-bearing phase and the associated mineralogical family. The predictive models were validated on an independent dataset, and then applied to test samples mostly taken from U mill tailings. Identification results were found to be in accordance with the available characterization data from X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDX). This work shows that TRLFS can be an effective decision-making tool for environmental investigations or geological prospection, considering the large diversity of uranium-bearing mineral phases and their low concentration in environmental samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Baptiste Sirven
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Service d'Etudes Analytiques et de Réactivité des Surfaces (SEARS), F-91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France.
| | - Stéphanie Szenknect
- ICSM, Univ Montpellier, CEA, CNRS, ENSCM, Site de Marcoule, Bagnols-sur-Cèze, France
| | - Evelyne Vors
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Service d'Etudes Analytiques et de Réactivité des Surfaces (SEARS), F-91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Eddie Anzalone
- ICSM, Univ Montpellier, CEA, CNRS, ENSCM, Site de Marcoule, Bagnols-sur-Cèze, France
| | - Sofian Benarib
- ICSM, Univ Montpellier, CEA, CNRS, ENSCM, Site de Marcoule, Bagnols-sur-Cèze, France
| | - Papa-Masserigne Sarr
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Service d'Etudes Analytiques et de Réactivité des Surfaces (SEARS), F-91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Pascal E Reiller
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Service d'Etudes Analytiques et de Réactivité des Surfaces (SEARS), F-91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Adel Mesbah
- IRCELYON, CNRS - UCBL, 2 avenue Albert Einstein, 69626 Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Nicolas Dacheux
- ICSM, Univ Montpellier, CEA, CNRS, ENSCM, Site de Marcoule, Bagnols-sur-Cèze, France
| | - Thomas Vercouter
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Service d'Etudes Analytiques et de Réactivité des Surfaces (SEARS), F-91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Michaël Descostes
- ORANO Mining, Environmental R&D Dpt, 125 avenue de Paris, 92320 Chatillon, France; Centre de Géosciences, MINES Paris, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang Q, Yang G. Unraveling the photocatalytic mechanisms for U(VI) reduction by TiO2. MOLECULAR CATALYSIS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcat.2022.112770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
8
|
Su M, Li H, Liu Z, Peng H, Huang S, Zhou Y, Liao C, Song G, Chen D. Highly-efficient and easy separation of γ-Fe 2O 3 selectively adsorbs U(Ⅵ) in waters. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 210:112917. [PMID: 35151660 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.112917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The migration and transformation of uranyl [U (Ⅵ)] ions in the environment are quite dependent on the geological condition in particular with the site enriched in Fe. In this study, the interfacial interaction of U (Ⅵ) ions with maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) particles was studied and the interaction mechanism was explored as well. Batch experiments confirm that γ-Fe2O3 can effectively remove U (Ⅵ) from an aqueous solution within a relatively short reaction time (R% > 92.01% within 3 min) and has a considerable capacity for U (Ⅵ) uptake (qt: 87.35 mg/g). γ-Fe2O3 displays an excellent selectivity for U (Ⅵ) elimination. Results on the effects of natural organic matter such as humic acid (HA) indicated that HA could promote the interfacial interaction between γ-Fe2O3 and U (Ⅵ) under acidic conditions. Compared with other radionuclides (e.g., Sr(Ⅱ) and Cs(Ⅰ)), U (Ⅵ) was more effectively removed by γ-Fe2O3. The U (Ⅵ) removal by γ-Fe2O3 is primarily due to electrostatic interactions and precipitation that result in the long-term retardation of uranium. γ-Fe2O3 not only can fast and selectively adsorb U (Ⅵ) but also can be magnetically recycled, demonstrating that γ-Fe2O3 is a cost-effective and promising material for the clean-up of uranyl ions from radioactive wastewater.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minhua Su
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radionuclides Pollution Control and Resources, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Hong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radionuclides Pollution Control and Resources, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zequan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radionuclides Pollution Control and Resources, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Hairong Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radionuclides Pollution Control and Resources, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Shuai Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radionuclides Pollution Control and Resources, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Changzhong Liao
- Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Gang Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radionuclides Pollution Control and Resources, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Diyun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radionuclides Pollution Control and Resources, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang Q, Li T, Zhu C, Huang X, Yang G. Molecular insights for uranium(VI) adsorption at nano-TiO2 surfaces and reduction by alcohols and biomass sugars. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL ADVANCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceja.2022.100264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
|
10
|
Liu Y, Wu S, Nguyen TAH, Chan TS, Lu YR, Huang L. Biochar mediated uranium immobilization in magnetite rich Cu tailings subject to organic matter amendment and native plant colonization. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 427:127860. [PMID: 34823947 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Organic matter (OM) amendments and plant colonization can accelerate mineral weathering and soil formation in metal mine tailings for ecological rehabilitation. However, the weathering effects may dissolve uranium (U)-bearing minerals (e.g., ianthinite) and increase U dissolution in porewater and seepages. The present study aimed to characterize the U solubility and distribution among different fractions and investigate if biochar (BC) could decrease soluble U levels and facilitate U immobilization in the OM-amended and plant-colonized tailings. A native plant species, Red Flinders grass (Iseilema vaginiflorum) was cultivated in the tailings for four weeks, which were amended with sugarcane residue (SR) with or without BC addition. The results showed that OM amendment and plant colonization increased porewater U concentrations by almost 10 folds from ~ 0.2 mg L-1 to > 2.0 mg L-1. The BC addition decreased porewater U concentrations by 40%. Further micro-spectroscopic analysis revealed that U was immobilized through adsorption onto BC porous surfaces, via possibly complexing with oxygen-rich organic groups. Besides, the BC amendment facilitated U sequestration by secondary Fe minerals in the tailings. These findings provide important information about U biogeochemistry in Cu-tailings mediated by BC, OM and rhizosphere interactions for mitigating potential pollution risks of tailings rehabilitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunjia Liu
- Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Songlin Wu
- Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| | - Tuan A H Nguyen
- Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Ting-Shan Chan
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Centre, Hsinchu Science Park, Hsinchu 30078, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Rui Lu
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Centre, Hsinchu Science Park, Hsinchu 30078, Taiwan
| | - Longbin Huang
- Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhang X, Zhang J, Peng Y, Wu X, Li M, Wen H, Sun Z, Ye J, Hua Y. Synergistic removal of glyphosate and U(VI) from aqueous solution by goethite: adsorption behaviour and mechanism. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-022-08223-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
12
|
Wang J, Zhou W, Shi Y, Li Y, Xian D, Guo N, Liu C. Uranium sorption on oxyhydroxide minerals by surface complexation and precipitation. CHINESE CHEM LETT 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|
13
|
Lahrouch F, Baptiste B, Dardenne K, Rothe J, Elkaim E, Descostes M, Gerard M. Uranium speciation control by uranyl sulfate and phosphate in tailings subject to a Sahelian climate, Cominak, Niger. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 287:132139. [PMID: 34509019 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Long-term uranium mobility in tailings is an environmental management issue. The present study focuses on two U-enriched layers, surficial and buried 14.5 m, of the tailings pile of Cominak, Niger. The acidic and oxidizing conditions of the tailings pile combined with evapotranspiration cycles related to the Sahelian climate control U speciation. Uraninite, brannerite, and moluranite as well as uranophane are relict U phases. EXAFS spectroscopy, HR-XRD, and SEM/WDS highlight the major role of uranyl sulfate groups in uranium speciation. Uranyl phosphate neoformation in the buried layer (paleolayer) acts as an efficient trap for uranium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Florian Lahrouch
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR7590, MNHN, IRD, Institut de Minéralogie, de Physique des Matériaux et de Cosmochimie (IMPMC), 4 Place Jussieu, Paris, F- 75005, France.
| | - Benoit Baptiste
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR7590, MNHN, IRD, Institut de Minéralogie, de Physique des Matériaux et de Cosmochimie (IMPMC), 4 Place Jussieu, Paris, F- 75005, France
| | - Kathy Dardenne
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute for Nuclear Waste Disposal (INE), P.O. Box 3640, Karlsruhe, D-76021, Germany
| | - Jörg Rothe
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute for Nuclear Waste Disposal (INE), P.O. Box 3640, Karlsruhe, D-76021, Germany
| | - Erik Elkaim
- Synchrotron SOLEIL, L'Orme des Merisiers, Saint-Aubin, BP 48, Gif-sur-Yvette Cedex, F-91192, France
| | - Michael Descostes
- ORANO Mines, Environmental R & D Department, 125 Avenue de Paris, Châtillon, F-93320, France; Centre de Géosciences, MINES ParisTech, PSL University, 35 rue St Honoré, Fontainebleau, 77300, France
| | - Martine Gerard
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR7590, MNHN, IRD, Institut de Minéralogie, de Physique des Matériaux et de Cosmochimie (IMPMC), 4 Place Jussieu, Paris, F- 75005, France.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Punia A, Bharti R, Kumar P. Hydrogeochemical Processes Governing Uranium Mobility: Inferences from the Anthropogenically Disturbed, Semi-arid Region of India. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2021; 81:386-396. [PMID: 34347119 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-021-00879-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Khetri Copper Belt, Rajasthan, is anthropogenically active and geologically belongs to the Delhi super-group. A study was designed to understand the geochemical processes controlling the elemental mobility in the groundwater. Sampling sites were divided into three zones, i.e. copper, quartzite and granite mine zones depending on the type of mineral excavated. A total of 32 representative groundwater samples were collected and analysed for heavy metals and radionuclide (U) using ICP-MS. A maximum U concentration (average 87 µgL-1) is observed in the quartzite mine zone, and minimum (average 13 µgL-1) is found in the copper mine zone samples. A high concentration of U (maximum of 430 µgL-1) in groundwater is attributed to mineral dissolution due to geogenic and anthropogenic activities. Despite the presence of Jaspura and Gothra granitoid in the copper mine zone, the abundance of U is low suggesting the scavenging of U by sulphides or iron oxides. Additionally, at the confluence of two geological groups, Fe concentration is found high with a low concentration of U which further confirms scavenging of U. It is evident from the results that in the absence of iron-bearing sulphides, U concentration in groundwater would be very high compared to the current concentration. It also indicates low concentration of U in the copper mine zone is due to dissolution of Fe sulphide-rich waste. The present study recommends further research to understand the feasibility of mining waste for the removal of U contamination from groundwater.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Punia
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India.
| | - Rishikesh Bharti
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India.
| | - Pankaj Kumar
- Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC), New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wang XY, Hao Y, Zhao HB, Guo YR, Pan QJ. 2D-layered Mg(OH) 2 material adsorbing cellobiose via interfacial chemical coupling and its applications in handling toxic Cd 2+ and UO 22+ ions. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 279:130617. [PMID: 34134416 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.130617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The interfacial chemistry of nanocomposite materials is of overarching importance in the separation and purification science; moreover, its understanding helps to guide synthesis, clarify structure-property relationship and unearth novel applications. However, the composites feature rather complicated local structures and hydrogen bonds are often involved in the interface and the vicinity of active sites. In this regard, density functional theory first-principle calculations associated with experimental study have synergistically examined two-dimensional (2D) magnesium hydroxide material with different layers and their adsorption toward cellobiose. Hydrogen bonds are found responsible for the interfacial coupling, which make it vital to cover the dispersion correction in the calculation. The average adsorption energy ranges from -0.29 to -0.35 eV, falling well within the range of reported hydrogen-bonding strength. On the basis of calculated structural/interfacial properties and experimental findings, the 2D Mg(OH)2 in terms of three-layer model was unraveled to substitute toxic Cd2+ ion and sorb radioactive UO22+ that is coordinated by water and hydroxyl groups. These reactions are thermodynamically feasible. The ion-exchanging mechanism was proposed for cadmium removal and the outer-sphere adsorption one for uranium extraction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Yang Hao
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Hong-Bo Zhao
- Department of Food and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Suihua University, Suihua, 152061, China
| | - Yuan-Ru Guo
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Material Science & Technology (Ministry of Education), College of Material Science and Engineering, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China.
| | - Qing-Jiang Pan
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, 150080, China.
| |
Collapse
|