Adsorption of radioactive iodide by natural zeolites

Abstract

Two natural zeolites from Iranian deposits (clinoptilolite and natrolite) were characterized and their ability for adsorption of iodide from nuclear wastewaters was evaluated. The adsorption behavior was studied on natural and modified zeolites by γ-spectrometry using 131I as radiotracer. Adsorption isotherms and distribution coefficient (Kd) were measured. The results showed that clinoptilolite is a more promising zeolite for removal of iodide compared to natrolite. Furthermore, the adsorption was higher in silver, lead and thallium forms, whereas the lowest desorption was observed in lead modified zeolite.