Some factors that influence the extractability of 239Pu(IV) from several clay minerals

Using an equilibrium batch technique, we determined the effect of clay minerals on the extractability of 239Pu(IV). The < 2 μm size fractions of three American Petroleum Institute reference clay minerals (montmorillonite No. 26, Kaolinite No. 3, and illite No. 35) were used. The extractability of Pu from clay suspensions prepared on an equal weight basis differed to some extent from those prepared on an equal equivalency basis. The Pu extractability also depended on clay-solution ratio, clay mineral type, clay particle size distribution, NO3- concentration, and pH