Separation Science and Technology, Vol.37, No.8, 1927-1942, 2002
Synthesis of novel Na-rich mica and selective strontium ion exchange and fixation
A novel swelling mica of composition, Na-2.94(Mg5.55Ti0.07Fe0.04) (Al2.07Si5.83)O20F4.1.72H(2)O, was synthesized from kaolinite, and this mica was found to be very selective for Sr with a high capacity for uptake. Apparently, both tetrahedral and octahedral sheets contribute to the total negative charge in this mica. A relatively low-temperature heat treatment at 250degreesC of the Sr-exchanged mica resulted in the collapse of the hydrated interlayer spacings of the mica to immobilize strontium in a stable unhydrated phase.