Satbayev University scientists are working on the technology for cleaning the radioactive waste
At Satbayev University, a domestic technology for wastewater treatment contaminated with radionuclides is being developed on the basis of Engineering Laboratory. Young scientists Mahabbat Kunarbekova, Ulan Zhantikeyev, Inabat Sapargali and Laura Seymukhanova, led by associate professor Kenes Kudaibergenov, are proposing to obtain a sorbent for extracting the radioactive elements from water sources. Sorbent is obtained from the biomass of agricultural waste. Such a sorbent can be used in nuclear medicine (treatment of oncological diseases), as well as for cleaning the contaminated facilities after nuclear weapons tests, at nuclear power plants.
Developing the filtration system is based on the properties of activated carbon to capture radionuclides from contaminated wastewater. Conventional agricultural wastes rich in lignocellulose, such as walnuts, rice husks and buckwheat husks, are used to produce the sorbent. This material, modified with sulfur, nitrogen, silver and ferrocyanide, contains active centers capable of capturing these radionuclides. By converting the biomass of agricultural waste into carbon-containing materials and active centers, a universal sorbent can be obtained.
The surface area of the sorbent produced by hydrothermal synthesis, pyrolysis and subsequent activation exceeds 1500 m2/g, has micro- and mesoporous properties, reduces the concentration of radionuclides by 70% in one cycle, operates in the recirculation mode in the wide pH range.
The given technology will help improve nuclear waste management and protect wastewater from radiation pollution. The results of this study will be of international importance, since the issues under consideration are of global importance.
Scientists expect to get a cost-effective technology as a result, which guarantees environmental safety in managing the radioactive waste.
