Equilibrium isotherm and kinetics modeling of U(VI) adsorption by natural soil systems

This research examined the adsorption capability of natural soils of different origin for U(VI) at soil–water interface and the mechanism involved. Adsorption kinetics study indicates that adsorption followed the pseudo-second order kinetics irrespective of soil types and was not solely controlled by the diffusion step rather surface complexation and ion-exchange plays major role. Study of adsorption isotherms indicates adsorption involves chemisorption and soil with high Fe and Mn content better fit to Langmuir model. The study provides a better insight for site selection for radioactive waste (uranium) disposal facilities as well as soil suitable for back fill or permeable reactive barrier to inhibit migration of U(VI).