Simultaneous Removal of Fission Products from Aqueous Solution by aSulphate Reducing Bacteria biomass

摘要

This study investigates the adsorption behaviour of fission products in single and bimetallic synthetic waste solution by a sulphate reducing bacteria biomass (SRB). The use of SRB for metal remediation is not a new concept; however their recent occurrence in radioactive environments has renewed an interest in their application for radioactive waste remediation. The removal of common fission products strontium (Sr~(2+)), caesium (Cs~+) and cobalt (Co~(2+)) by the SRB was investigated. The effect of initial concentration, pH and the presence of a secondary metal ion on the sorption behaviour of Sr~(2+), Cs~+ and Co~(2+)by a sulphate reducing bacteria consortium was investigated under equilibrium conditions. Results obtained indicated that sulphate reducing bacteria has a higher affinity for Sr~(2+) compared to Cs~+ and Co~(2+). Among the metals investigated, Co~(2+)uptake was the most sensitive to the presence of a secondary metal ion. Uptake inside the cell was not evident for all the three metal species. These findings are significant for future development of effective biological processes for radioactive waste management under realistic conditions.