Design and Application of Materials for Sequestration and Immobilization of Tc.

Technetium (Tc) is a hazardous radionuclide that poses a serious environmental threat. The wide variation and complex chemistries of liquid nuclear waste streams containing Tc often create unique, site specific challenges when sequestering and immobilizing the waste in a matrix suitable for long-term storage and disposal. Therefore, an effective management plan for Tc containing liquid radioactive wastes (such as storage (tanks) and decommissioned wastes) will likely require a variety of suitable materials/matrixes capable of adapting to and addressing these challenges. In this review, we discuss and highlight the key developments for effective removal and immobilization of Tc liquid waste in inorganic waste forms. Specifically, we review the synthesis, characterization, and application of materials for the targeted removal of Tc from (simulated) waste solutions under various experimental conditions. These materials include (i) layered double hydroxides (LDHs), (ii) metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), (iii) ion-exchange resins (IERs) as well as cationic organic polymers (COPs), (iv) surface modified natural clay materials (SMCMs), and (v) graphene-based materials (GBMs). Second, we discuss some of the major and recent developments toward Tc immobilization in (i) glass, (ii) cement, and (iii) iron mineral waste forms. Finally, we present future challenges that need to be addressed for the design, synthesis, and selection of suitable matrixes for the efficient sequestration and immobilization of Tc from targeted wastes. The purpose of this review is to inspire research on the design and application of various suitable materials/matrixes for selective removal of Tc present globally in different radioactive wastes and its immobilization in stable/durable waste forms.