LAUSR

Removal of the heavy metal ions from water disposals remains a widespread problem due to their adverse influence on public health. The most harmful materials are the products of nuclear fission called radioisotopes such as cerium ions. Cerium barely interacts with adsorbent materials, therefore the new substances capable to bind cerium are of great interest. Ca and Na alginate samples were incubated in Ce3+ solutions; adsorption capacity was measured and the results were evaluated using Langmuir and Freundlich equations and kinetics models. Ca and Na alginates possess Ce3+-binding capacity which depends on the pH, contact time and metal concentration. It was found that equilibrium concentration is reached in 60 minutes of agitation period regardless initial Ce3+ concentration in the solution within pH range from 4.0 to 6.0. Ce3+ adsorption processes are best described by Langmuir equation, qmax for Ca alginate was found to be 158.73 mg/L and for Na alginate 204.08 mg/L. Na alginate was proved to be more effective as a cerium binding material. Kinetics of the Ce3+ adsorption by alginates was corresponding to the pseudosecond order equation. Ca and Na alginates may be considered as perspective compounds for the water treatment systems purposed for removal of radioactive materials such Ce3+ from the nuclear plant disposals.