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The increased use of nanoparticles (NPs) requires efficient testing of their potential toxic effects. A promising approach is to use reporter cell lines to quickly assess the activation of cellular stress response pathways. This study aimed to use the ToxTracker reporter cell lines to investigate (geno)toxicity of various metal-or metal oxide NPs and draw general conclusions on NP-induced effects, in combination with our previous findings. The NPs tested in this study (n = 18) also included quantum dots (QDs) in different sizes. The results showed a large variation in cytotoxicity of the NPs tested. Furthermore, whereas many induced oxidative stress only few activated reporters related to DNA damage. NPs of manganese (Mn and Mn3O4) induced the most remarkable ToxTracker response with activation of reporters for oxidative stress, DNA damage, protein unfolding and p53-related stress. The QDs (CdTe) were highly toxic showing clearly size-dependent effects and calculations suggest surface area as the most relevant dose metric. Of all NPs investigated in this and previous studies the following induce the DNA damage reporter; CuO, Co, CoO, CdTe QDs, Mn, Mn3O4, V2O5, and welding NPs. We suggest that these NPs are of particular concern when considering genotoxicity induced by metal-and metal oxide NPs., QC 20200420

This work focuses on kinetic aspects of stability, mobility, and dissolution of bare Cu, Al and Mn, and SiO2 NPs in synthetic freshwater (FW) with and without the presence of natural organic matter (NOM). This includes elucidation of particle and surface interactions, metal dissolution kinetics, and speciation predictions of released metals in solution. Dihydroxy benzoic acid (DHBA) and humic acid adsorbed rapidly on all metal NPs (< 1 min) via multiple surface coordinations, followed in general by rapid agglomeration and concomitant sedimentation for a large fraction of the particles. In contrast, NOM did not induce agglomeration of the SiO2 NPs during the test duration (21 days). DHBA in concentrations of 0.1 and 1 mM was unable to stabilize the metal NPs for time periods longer than 6 h, whereas humic acid, at certain concentrations (20 mg/L) was more efficient (> 24 h). The presence of NOM increased the amount of released metals into solution, in particular for Al and Cu, whereas the effect for Mn was minor. At least 10% of the particle mass was dissolved within 24 h and remained in solution for the metal NPs in the presence of NOM. Speciation modeling revealed that released Al and Cu predominantly formed complexes with NOM, whereas less complexation was seen for Mn. The results imply that potentially dispersed NPs of Cu, Al and Mn readily dissolve or sediment close to the source in freshwater of low salinity, whereas SiO2 NPs are more stable and therefore more mobile in solution., QC 20180323

In this work we have experimentally studied the impact of bentonite clay on the process of radiation-induced copper corrosion in anoxic water. The motivation for this is to further develop our understanding of radiation-driven processes occurring in deep geological repositories for spent nuclear fuel where copper canisters containing the spent nuclear fuel will be embedded in compacted bentonite. Experiments on radiation-induced corrosion in the presence and absence of bentonite were performed along with experiments elucidating the impact irradiation on the Cu2+ adsorption capacity of bentonite. The experiments presented in this work show that the presence of bentonite clay has no or very little effect on the magnitude of radiation-induced corrosion of copper in anoxic aqueous systems. The absence of a protective effect similar to that observed for radiation-induced dissolution of UO2 is attributed to differences in the corrosion mechanism. This provides further support for the previously proposed mechanism where the hydroxyl radical is the key radiolytic oxidant responsible for the corrosion of copper. The radiation effect on the bentonite sorption capacity of Cu2+ (reduced capacity) is in line with what has previously been reported for other cations. The reduced cation sorption capacity is partly attributed to a loss of Al-OH sites upon irradiation., Export Date: 13 February 2018; Article; CODEN: RPCHD; Correspondence Address: Jonsson, M.; School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Applied Physical Chemistry, KTH Royal Institute of TechnologySweden; email: matsj@kth.se; Funding details: SKB, Svensk Kärnbränslehantering. QC 20180326

An extended reference fluid density approach/weighted correlation approximation (RFD/WCA) of density functional theory (DFT) is tested for the description of the non-restricted primitive model of electrolyte solutions in slit-like nanopores. The RFD/WCA approach of modeling size-asymmetric ions is validated by reproducing the density and electrostatic potential profiles of planar electrical double layer systems in the presence of mixtures of mono- and multivalent ions. The results from the DFT agree quite well with Monte Carlo simulations and satisfy the contact density sum rules of ionic fluid under a wide range of conditions. These findings suggest that a generic RFD/WCA approach can be formulated within the framework of the restricted and non-restricted primitive model to further investigate the swelling and ion exchange of clay minerals., QC 20170123

In this study, we elucidate the effect of different sonication techniques to efficiently prepare particle dispersions from selected non-functionalized NPs (Cu, Al, Mn, ZnO), and corresponding consequences on the particle dose, surface charge and release of metals. Probe sonication was shown to be the preferred method for dispersing non-inert, non-functionalized metal NPs (Cu, Mn, Al). However, rapid sedimentation during sonication resulted in differences between the real and the administered doses in the order of 30-80 % when sonicating in 1 and 2.56 g/L NP stock solutions. After sonication, extensive agglomeration of the metal NPs resulted in rapid sedimentation of all particles. DLVO calculations supported these findings, showing the strong van der Waals forces of the metal NPs to result in significant NP agglomeration. Metal release from the metal NPs was slightly increased by increased sonication. The addition of a stabilizing agent (bovine serum albumin) had an accelerating effect on the release of metals in sonicated solutions. For Cu and Mn NPs, the extent of particle dissolution increased from <1.6 to similar to 5 % after sonication for 15 min. A prolonged sonication time (3-15 min) had negligible effects on the zeta potential of the studied NPs. In all, it is shown that it is of utmost importance to carefully investigate how sonication influences the physicochemical properties of dispersed metal NPs. This should be considered in nanotoxicology investigations of metal NPs., QC 20161031

In this study, we elucidate the effect of different sonication techniques to efficiently prepare particle dispersions from selected non-functionalized NPs (Cu, Al, Mn, ZnO), and corresponding consequences on the particle dose, surface charge and release of metals. Probe sonication was shown to be the preferred method for dispersing non-inert, non-functionalized metal NPs (Cu, Mn, Al). However, rapid sedimentation during sonication resulted in differences between the real and the administered doses in the order of 30–80 % when sonicating in 1 and 2.56 g/L NP stock solutions. After sonication, extensive agglomeration of the metal NPs resulted in rapid sedimentation of all particles. DLVO calculations supported these findings, showing the strong van der Waals forces of the metal NPs to result in significant NP agglomeration. Metal release from the metal NPs was slightly increased by increased sonication. The addition of a stabilizing agent (bovine serum albumin) had an accelerating effect on the release of metals in sonicated solutions. For Cu and Mn NPs, the extent of particle dissolution increased from <1.6 to ~5 % after sonication for 15 min. A prolonged sonication time (3–15 min) had negligible effects on the zeta potential of the studied NPs. In all, it is shown that it is of utmost importance to carefully investigate how sonication influences the physico-chemical properties of dispersed metal NPs. This should be considered in nanotoxicology investigations of metal NPs. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]

In this study, we elucidate the effect of different sonication techniques to efficiently prepare particle dispersions from selected non-functionalized NPs (Cu, Al, Mn, ZnO), and corresponding consequences on the particle dose, surface charge and release of metals. Probe sonication was shown to be the preferred method for dispersing non-inert, non-functionalized metal NPs (Cu, Mn, Al). However, rapid sedimentation during sonication resulted in differences between the real and the administered doses in the order of 30–80 % when sonicating in 1 and 2.56 g/L NP stock solutions. After sonication, extensive agglomeration of the metal NPs resulted in rapid sedimentation of all particles. DLVO calculations supported these findings, showing the strong van der Waals forces of the metal NPs to result in significant NP agglomeration. Metal release from the metal NPs was slightly increased by increased sonication. The addition of a stabilizing agent (bovine serum albumin) had an accelerating effect on the release of metals in sonicated solutions. For Cu and Mn NPs, the extent of particle dissolution increased from <1.6 to ~5 % after sonication for 15 min. A prolonged sonication time (3–15 min) had negligible effects on the zeta potential of the studied NPs. In all, it is shown that it is of utmost importance to carefully investigate how sonication influences the physico-chemical properties of dispersed metal NPs. This should be considered in nanotoxicology investigations of metal NPs. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]

Bentonite is a strong radionuclide (RN) adsorbent. As a consequence, it is proposed as one of the engineered safety barriers in many nuclear waste disposal concepts in granite formations. Despite the many beneficial effects of bentonite, in contact with groundwater of low ionic strength montmorillonite colloids may be released from the bentonite buffer and transported towards the biosphere carrying the RNs bound to it. During the transport of colloids in bedrock fractures, size separation of clay colloids may occur, which may further affect RN mobility. In this work, RN adsorption (Th(IV), U(VI), Np(V), Tc(VII) and Pu(IV)) onto size fractionated montmorillonite colloids was studied in a synthetic, carbonated groundwater. Fractionation was done by simple settling procedures and sequential centrifugation. We combined batch adsorption experiments and geochemical modelling for the adsorption studies. U(VI), Np(V) and Tc(VII) did not adsorb to montmorillonite in the synthetic groundwater. Adsorption of Th(IV) and Pu(IV) is strong but, within experimental uncertainties, not significantly affected by the fractionation process. Montmorillonite colloids obtained by fractionation of the raw clay material but in the presence of organic matter during the initial separation step present significantly reduced uptake of Th and Pu. Based on the results, implementation of an "average log K-D" (i.e. average distribution coefficients) for all colloidal sizes in reactive transport modelling codes would be acceptable., QC 20160420

This study is focussed on the simulation of particle agglomeration at relatively high ionic strength using a refined stochastic algorithm developed in the context of parcel-tracking approaches. For that purpose, experimental data of both diffusion-limited and reaction-limited aggregation of latex particles were obtained using dynamic light scattering techniques for different initial particle sizes (diameters ranging from 24 to 495 nm) and at various chemical conditions (ionic strength between 0.5 and 2 M with NaCl or CaCl2 solutions). The experimental data collected have been compared to numerical results obtained with the refined parcel-tracking algorithm for particle agglomeration which has been developed. Results show that the evolution of the aggregate diameters over time can be properly captured by the present model with the value of the aggregate fractal dimension that is extracted from experimental data., QC 20160530

An extended reference fluid density approach/weighted correlation approximation (RFD/WCA) of density functional theory (DFT) for size-asymmetric electrolytes presented in part I is applied to calculate the forces and the ion exchange for Ca- and Na-montmorillonite systems in equilibrium with salt solutions. Our modeling shows that the DFT calculations are in excellent agreement with Monte Carlo simulations and experimental results. The results indicate that the ion size plays an important role in force-distance relation. Due to the excluded volume effect, the osmotic pressure curve predicted by DFT is shifted towards larger separation distances with increasing the diameter of counterions. Additionally, the interaction can be switched from attraction to repulsion with increasing diameter of counterions from standard to hydrated ionic size. Furthermore, the quantitative characterization of the exchange of calcium for sodium at room temperature on Wyoming bentonite is investigated with the DFT modeling in aqueous solutions at pH 7.0. It is found that a significant variation of the selectivity coefficient could be observed with the surface charge density, ionic diameter and interlayer separations. This implies that ion selectivity in compacted bentonite differs from that in dilute smectite dispersions., QC 20161129

Bentonite is planned to be used as a technical barrier in the final storage of spent nuclear fuel and high level vitrified waste. In contact with ground water of low ionic strength, montmorillonite colloids may be released from the bentonite buffer and thereby enhance the transport of radionuclides (RNs) sorbed: In the present case, clay colloids represent aggregates of several clay mineral layers. It is of major importance to determine RN sorption properties for different sizes of montmorillonite aggregates, since size fractionation may occur during particle transport in natural media. In this study, a protocol for size fractionation of clay aggregates is developed, by sequential and direct centrifugation, in the presence and absence of organic matter. Seven colloidal fractions of different mean aggregate sizes are obtained ranging, when considering the mean equivalent hydrodynamic sphere diameter (ESD), from similar to 960 nm down to similar to 85 nm. Applying mathematical treatments (Jennings and Parslow, 1988) and approximating the clay aggregates to regular disc-shaped stacks of clay mineral sheets result in mean surface diameters varying from similar to 1.5 mu m down to similar to 190 nm. All these colloidal fractions are characterized by XRD, IC and ICP-OES where they are found to have the same chemical composition. The number of edge sites (aluminol and silanol) is estimated (in mol/kg) for each colloidal fraction according to (Tournassat et al., 2003). It is calculated from the mean particle sizes obtained from AsFlFFF and PCS measurements, where the clay aggregates are approximated to regular disc-shaped stacks of clay mineral sheets. The estimated number of edge sites varies significantly for the different clay dispersions. In addition, stability studies using the various clay colloidal fractions are performed by the addition of NaCl, CaCl2 or MgCl2, in the presence or absence of organic matter, where no difference in stability is found., QC 20151016

From an increased use of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) as an antibacterial in consumer products follows a need to assess the environmental interaction and fate of their possible dispersion and release of silver. This study aims to elucidate an exposure scenario of the Ag NPs potentially released from, for example, impregnated clothing by assessing the release of silver and changes in particle properties in sequential contact with synthetic sweat, laundry detergent solutions, and freshwater, simulating a possible transport path through different aquatic media. The release of ionic silver is addressed from a water chemical perspective, compared with important particle and surface characteristics. Released amounts of silver in the sequential exposures were significantly lower, approximately a factor of 2, than the sum of each separate exposure. Particle characteristics such as speciation (both of Ag ionic species and at the Ag NP surface) influenced the release of soluble silver species present on the surface, thereby increasing the total silver release in the separate exposures compared with sequential immersions. The particle stability had no drastic impact on the silver release as most of the Ag NPs were unstable in solution. The silver release was also influenced by a lower pH (increased release of silver), and cotransported zeolites (reduced silver in solution)., QC 20140811

The stability of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) potentially released from clothing during a laundry cycle and their interactions with laundry-relevant surfactants [anionic (LAS), cationic (DTAC), and nonionic (Berol)] have been investigated. Surface interactions between Ag NPs and surfactants influence their speciation and stability. In the absence of surfactants as well as in the presence of LAS, the negatively charged Ag NPs were stable in solution for more than 1 day. At low DTAC concentrations (<= 1 mM), DTAC-Ag NP interactions resulted in charge neutralization and formation of agglomerates. The surface charge of the particles became positive at higher concentrations due to a bilayer type formation of DTAC that prevents from agglomeration due to repulsive electrostatic forces between the positively charged colloids. The adsorption of Berol was enhanced when above its critical micelle concentration (cmc). This resulted in a surface charge dose to zero and subsequent agglomeration. Extended DLVO theory calculations were in compliance with observed findings. The stability of the Ag NPs was shown to depend on the charge and concentration of the adsorbed surfactants. Such knowledge is important as it may influence the subsequent transport of Ag NPs through different chemical transients and thus their potential bioavailability and toxicity., QC 20130906

An ion selective electrode (ISE) for determination of the labile silver ion concentration in carbonate containing solutions of pH 10 was seen to give incorrect results due to shifts in the Ag vertical bar Ag+ equilibrium. This drawback was not the case for the differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV) method., QC 20130311

Given the increasing incorporation of silver nanoparticles as an antibacterial additive in washing machines and textiles, sensitive methods for accurate determination of Ag+ ions in laundry relevant electrolytes (alkaline carbonate) are required. The most widely reported method, the silver ion selective electrode (ISE), lacked sensitivity and accuracy and was affected by the concentration of Na2CO3 in solution. Differential pulse stripping voltammetry (DPSV) on glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) was therefore investigated as an alternative technique. Surface preparation of the GCE surface was essential and a suitable procedure was developed. A linear response was observed from 0 to 180 mg L-1 with a lower detection limit of 500 ng L-1 (5 nM). DPSV was shown to be significantly more sensitive and accurate in determining the Ag+ activity than the silver ISE technique, particularly below 200 nM., QC 20130507

Many countries intend to use compacted bentonite as a barrier in their deep geological repositories for nuclear waste. In order to describe and predict hydraulic conductivity or radionuclide transport through the bentonite barrier, fundamental understanding of the microstructure of compacted bentonite is needed. This study examined the interlayer swelling and overall microstructure of Wyoming Bentonite MX-80 and the corresponding homo-ionic Na+ and Ca2+ forms, using XRD with samples saturated under confined swelling conditions and free swelling conditions. For the samples saturated under confined conditions, the interparticle, or so-called free or external porosity was estimated by comparing the experimental interlayer distances obtained from one-dimensional XRD profile fitting against the maximum interlayer distances possible for the corresponding water content. The results showed that interlayer porosity dominated total porosity, irrespective of water content, and that the interparticle porosity was lower than previously reported in the literature. At compactions relevant for the saturated bentonite barrier (1.4-1.8 g/cm(3)), the interparticle porosity was estimated to <= 3%., QC 20120312

Sorption of Ni(II) onto chlorite surfaces was studied as a function of pH (5-10), ionic strength (0.01-0.5 M) and Ni concentration (10(-8)-10(-6) M) in an Ar atmosphere using batch sorption with radioactive Ni-63 as tracer. Such studies are important since Ni(II) is one of the major activation products in spent nuclear fuel and sorption data on minerals such as chlorite are lacking. The sorption of Ni(II) onto chlorite was dependent on pH but not ionic strength, which indicates that the process primarily comprises sorption by surface complexation. The maximum sorption was at pH similar to 8(K-d = similar to 10(-3) cm(3)/g). Desorption studies over a period of 1-2 weeks involving replacement of the aqueous solution indicated a low degree of desorption. The acid-base properties of the chlorite mineral were determined by titration and described using a non-electrostatic surface complexation model in FITEQL. A 2-pK NEM model and three surface complexes, Chl_OHNi2+, Chl_OHNi(OH)(+) and Chl_OHNi(OH)(2), gave the best fit to the sorption results using FITEQL. The high K-d values and low degree of desorption observed indicate that under expected groundwater conditions, a large fraction of Ni(II) that is potentially leachable from spent nuclear fuel may be prevented from migrating by sorption onto chlorite surfaces., QC 20120528. Updated from submitted to published.

Compacted and water saturated bentonite will be used as an engineered barrier in deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in many countries. Due to the high dose rate of ionizing radiation outside the canisters holding the nuclear waste, radiolysis of the interlayer and pore water in the compacted bentonite is unavoidable. Upon reaction with the oxidizing and reducing species formed by water radiolysis (OH•, e-(aq), H•, H202, H2, H02•, H30+), the overall redox properties in the bentonite barrier may change. In this study the influence of γ-radiation on the structural Fe(II)/Fe(III) content in montmorillonite and its reactivity towards hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was investigated in parallel experiments. The results show that under anoxic conditions the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio of dispersed montmorillonite are increased from ≤ 3 to 25-30% after γ-doses comparable to repository conditions. Furthermore, a strong correlation between the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio and the H2O2 decomposition rate in montmorillonite dispersions was found. This correlation was further verified in experiments with consecutive H2O2 additions, since the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio was seen to decrease concordantly. This work shows that the structural iron in montmorillonite could be a sink for one of the major oxidants formed upon water radiolysis in the bentonite barrier, H2O2., Updated from submitted to published 20120327. QC 20120327

The interaction between silvernanoparticles (Ag NPs) of different surface charge and surfactants relevant to the laundry cycle has been investigated to understand changes in speciation, both in and during transport from the washing machine. Ag NPs were synthesized to exhibit either a positive or a negative surface charge in solution conditions relevant for the laundry cycle (pH 10 and pH 7). These particles were characterized in terms of size and surface charge and compared to commercially laser ablated Ag NPs. The surfactants included anionic sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (LAS), cationic dodecyltrimethylammoniumchloride (DTAC) and nonionic Berol 266 (Berol). Surfactant–Ag NP interactions were studied by means of dynamic light scattering, Raman spectroscopy, zeta potential, and Quartz Crystal Microbalance. Mixed bilayers of CTAB and LAS were formed through a co-operative adsorption process on positively charged Ag NPs with pre-adsorbed CTAB, resulting in charge reversal from positive to negative zeta potentials. Adsorption of DTAC on negatively charged synthesized Ag NPs and negatively charged commercial Ag NPs resulted in bilayer formation and charge reversal. Weak interactions were observed for nonionic Berol with all Ag NPs via hydrophobic interactions, which resulted in decreased zeta potentials for Berol concentrations above its critical micelle concentration. Differences in particle size were essentially not affected by surfactant adsorption, as the surfactant layer thicknesses did not exceed more than a few nanometers. The surfactant interaction with the Ag NP surface was shown to be reversible, an observation of particular importance for hazard and environmental risk assessments., QC 20120201

Many countries intend to use compacted bentonite as a barrier in their deep geological repositories for nuclear waste. In order to describe and predict hydraulic conductivity or radionuclide transport through the bentonite barrier, fundamental understanding of the microstructure of compacted bentonite is needed. This study examined the interlayer swelling and overall microstructure of Wyoming Bentonite MX-80 and the corresponding homo-ionic Na+ and Ca2 + forms, using XRD with samples saturated under confined swelling conditions and free swelling conditions. For the samples saturated under confined conditions, the interparticle, or so-called free or external porosity was estimated by comparing the experimental interlayer distances obtained from one-dimensional XRD profile fitting against the maximum interlayer distances possible for the corresponding water content. The results showed that interlayer porosity dominated total porosity, irrespective of water content, and that the interparticle porosity was lower than previously reported in the literature. At compactions relevant for the saturated bentonite barrier (1.4–1.8 g/cm3), the interparticle porosity was estimated to ≤ 3%.

Compacted and water saturated bentonite will be used as an engineered barrier in deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in many countries. Due to the high dose rate of ionizing radiation outside the canisters holding the nuclear waste, radiolysis of the interlayer and pore water in the compacted bentonite is unavoidable. Upon reaction with the oxidizing and reducing species formed by water radiolysis (OH•, e-(aq), H•, H202, H2, H02•, H30+), the overall redox properties in the bentonite barrier may change. In this study the influence of γ-radiation on the structural Fe(II)/Fe(III) content in montmorillonite and its reactivity towards hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was investigated in parallel experiments. The results show that under anoxic conditions the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio of dispersed montmorillonite are increased from ≤ 3 to 25-30% after γ-doses comparable to repository conditions. Furthermore, a strong correlation between the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio and the H2O2 decomposition rate in montmorillonite dispersions was found. This correlation was further verified in experiments with consecutive H2O2 additions, since the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio was seen to decrease concordantly. This work shows that the structural iron in montmorillonite could be a sink for one of the major oxidants formed upon water radiolysis in the bentonite barrier, H2O2.

Compacted and water saturated bentonite will be used as an engineered barrier in deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in many countries. Due to the high dose rate of ionizing radiation outside the canisters holding the nuclear waste, radiolysis of the interlayer and pore water in the compacted bentonite is unavoidable. Upon reaction with the oxidizing and reducing species formed by water radiolysis (OH•, e-(aq), H•, H202, H2, H02•, H30+), the overall redox properties in the bentonite barrier may change. In this study the influence of γ-radiation on the structural Fe(II)/Fe(III) content in montmorillonite and its reactivity towards hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was investigated in parallel experiments. The results show that under anoxic conditions the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio of dispersed montmorillonite are increased from ≤ 3 to 25-30% after γ-doses comparable to repository conditions. Furthermore, a strong correlation between the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio and the H2O2 decomposition rate in montmorillonite dispersions was found. This correlation was further verified in experiments with consecutive H2O2 additions, since the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio was seen to decrease concordantly. This work shows that the structural iron in montmorillonite could be a sink for one of the major oxidants formed upon water radiolysis in the bentonite barrier, H2O2., Updated from submitted to published 20120327. QC 20120327

Compacted and water saturated bentonite will be used as an engineered barrier in deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in many countries. Due to the high dose rate of ionizing radiation outside the canisters holding the nuclear waste, radiolysis of the interlayer and pore water in the compacted bentonite is unavoidable. Upon reaction with the oxidizing and reducing species formed by water radiolysis (OH•, e-(aq), H•, H202, H2, H02•, H30+), the overall redox properties in the bentonite barrier may change. In this study the influence of γ-radiation on the structural Fe(II)/Fe(III) content in montmorillonite and its reactivity towards hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was investigated in parallel experiments. The results show that under anoxic conditions the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio of dispersed montmorillonite are increased from ≤ 3 to 25-30% after γ-doses comparable to repository conditions. Furthermore, a strong correlation between the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio and the H2O2 decomposition rate in montmorillonite dispersions was found. This correlation was further verified in experiments with consecutive H2O2 additions, since the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio was seen to decrease concordantly. This work shows that the structural iron in montmorillonite could be a sink for one of the major oxidants formed upon water radiolysis in the bentonite barrier, H2O2., Updated from submitted to published 20120327. QC 20120327

Compacted and water saturated bentonite will be used as an engineered barrier in deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in many countries. Due to the high dose rate of ionizing radiation outside the canisters holding the nuclear waste, radiolysis of the interlayer and pore water in the compacted bentonite is unavoidable. Upon reaction with the oxidizing and reducing species formed by water radiolysis (OH•, e-(aq), H•, H202, H2, H02•, H30+), the overall redox properties in the bentonite barrier may change. In this study the influence of γ-radiation on the structural Fe(II)/Fe(III) content in montmorillonite and its reactivity towards hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was investigated in parallel experiments. The results show that under anoxic conditions the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio of dispersed montmorillonite are increased from ≤ 3 to 25-30% after γ-doses comparable to repository conditions. Furthermore, a strong correlation between the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio and the H2O2 decomposition rate in montmorillonite dispersions was found. This correlation was further verified in experiments with consecutive H2O2 additions, since the structural Fe(II)/FeTot ratio was seen to decrease concordantly. This work shows that the structural iron in montmorillonite could be a sink for one of the major oxidants formed upon water radiolysis in the bentonite barrier, H2O2., Updated from submitted to published 20120327. QC 20120327

Compacted bentonite is proposed as an engineered barrier in many concepts for disposal of high level nuclear waste. After the initial deposition however, the bentonite barrier will inevitably be exposed to ionizing radiation (mainly gamma) under anoxic conditions. Because of this, the effects of gamma-radiation on the apparent diffusivity values and sorption coefficients in bentonite for Cs(+) and Co(2+) were tested under different experimental conditions. Radiation induced effects on sorption were in general more noticeable for Co(2+) than for Cs(+), which generally showed no significant differences between irradiated and unirradiated clay samples. For Co(2+) however, the sorption to irradiated MX80 was significantly lower than to the unirradiated clay samples regardless of the experimental conditions. This implies that gamma-radiation may alter the surface characteristics contributing to surface complexation of Co(2+). With the experimental conditions used, however, the effect of decreasing sorption was not large enough to be reflected on the obtained D. values., QC 20111107 Updated from submitted to published.

Silica sol, i.e., colloidal SiO2, may be used as a low-pH injection grout for very fine fractures in the construction of deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in Sweden and in Finland. If the bentonite barrier encounters SiO2-colloid particles under conditions favorable for aggregation, there is concern that it will modify the bentonite barrier at the bentonite/bedrock interface. In this study qualitative experiments were performed with mixed dispersions of SiO2-colloids and bentonite or homo-ionic Na/Ca-montmorillonite. Samples were prepared at different colloid concentrations and treated under various conditions such as low and high ionic strength (0.3 M NaCl), as well as dehydration and redispersing. Free swelling and settling experiments were performed in order to qualitatively compare the conditions in which SiO2-colloids affect the bulk/macro properties of bentonite. In order to study specific SiO2-colloid/montmorillonite interactions and preferred type of initial aggregation, dilute dispersions of homo-ionic montmorillonite dispersions mixed with varying concentrations of SiO2-colloids were prepared and selected samples were characterized by PCS, SEM/EDS, AFM and PXRD. The results from this study show that bentonite and montmorillonite particles can be modified by SiO2-colloids when mixed in comparable amounts, due to dehydration or high ionic strength. Some indications for increased colloidal stability for the SiO2-colloid modified clay particles were also found. From the AFM investigation it was found that initial attachment of the SiO2-colloids in Na+ dominated samples seemed to occur on the edges of the montmorillonite layers. In Ca2+ dominated samples not subjected to excess NaCl, SiO2-colloid sorption onto the faces of the montmorillonite layers was also found. In all, contact between the bentonite barrier and ungelled Silica sol should preferably be avoided., Updated from in press to published. QC 20120214

Silica sol, i.e., colloidal SiO2, may be used as a low-pH injection grout for very fine fractures in the construction of deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in Sweden and in Finland. If the bentonite barrier encounters SiO2-colloid particles under conditions favorable for aggregation, there is concern that it will modify the bentonite barrier at the bentonite/bedrock interface. In this study qualitative experiments were performed with mixed dispersions of SiO2-colloids and bentonite or homo-ionic Na/Ca-montmorillonite. Samples were prepared at different colloid concentrations and treated under various conditions such as low and high ionic strength (0.3 M NaCl), as well as dehydration and redispersing. Free swelling and settling experiments were performed in order to qualitatively compare the conditions in which SiO2-colloids affect the bulk/macro properties of bentonite. In order to study specific SiO2-colloid/montmorillonite interactions and preferred type of initial aggregation, dilute dispersions of homo-ionic montmorillonite dispersions mixed with varying concentrations of SiO2-colloids were prepared and selected samples were characterized by PCS, SEM/EDS, AFM and PXRD. The results from this study show that bentonite and montmorillonite particles can be modified by SiO2-colloids when mixed in comparable amounts, due to dehydration or high ionic strength. Some indications for increased colloidal stability for the SiO2-colloid modified clay particles were also found. From the AFM investigation it was found that initial attachment of the SiO2-colloids in Na+ dominated samples seemed to occur on the edges of the montmorillonite layers. In Ca2+ dominated samples not subjected to excess NaCl, SiO2-colloid sorption onto the faces of the montmorillonite layers was also found. In all, contact between the bentonite barrier and ungelled Silica sol should preferably be avoided.

Compacted bentonite is proposed as an engineered barrier in many concepts for disposal of high level nuclear waste. After the initial deposition however, the bentonite barrier will inevitably be exposed to ionizing radiation (mainly γ) under anoxic conditions. Because of this, the effects of γ-radiation on the apparent diffusivity values and sorption coefficients in bentonite for Cs+ and Co2+ were tested under different experimental conditions. Radiation induced effects on sorption were in general more noticeable for Co2+ than for Cs+, which generally showed no significant differences between irradiated and unirradiated clay samples. For Co2+ however, the sorption to irradiated MX80 was significantly lower than to the unirradiated clay samples regardless of the experimental conditions. This implies that γ-radiation may alter the surface characteristics contributing to surface complexation of Co2+. With the experimental conditions used, however, the effect of decreasing sorption was not large enough to be reflected on the obtained Da values.

Compacted bentonite is proposed as an engineered barrier in many concepts for disposal of high level nuclear waste. After the initial deposition however, the bentonite barrier will inevitably be exposed to ionizing radiation (mainly gamma) under anoxic conditions. Because of this, the effects of gamma-radiation on the apparent diffusivity values and sorption coefficients in bentonite for Cs(+) and Co(2+) were tested under different experimental conditions. Radiation induced effects on sorption were in general more noticeable for Co(2+) than for Cs(+), which generally showed no significant differences between irradiated and unirradiated clay samples. For Co(2+) however, the sorption to irradiated MX80 was significantly lower than to the unirradiated clay samples regardless of the experimental conditions. This implies that gamma-radiation may alter the surface characteristics contributing to surface complexation of Co(2+). With the experimental conditions used, however, the effect of decreasing sorption was not large enough to be reflected on the obtained D. values., QC 20111107 Updated from submitted to published.

Silica sol, i.e., colloidal SiO2, may be used as a low-pH injection grout for very fine fractures in the construction of deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in Sweden and in Finland. If the bentonite barrier encounters SiO2-colloid particles under conditions favorable for aggregation, there is concern that it will modify the bentonite barrier at the bentonite/bedrock interface. In this study qualitative experiments were performed with mixed dispersions of SiO2-colloids and bentonite or homo-ionic Na/Ca-montmorillonite. Samples were prepared at different colloid concentrations and treated under various conditions such as low and high ionic strength (0.3 M NaCl), as well as dehydration and redispersing. Free swelling and settling experiments were performed in order to qualitatively compare the conditions in which SiO2-colloids affect the bulk/macro properties of bentonite. In order to study specific SiO2-colloid/montmorillonite interactions and preferred type of initial aggregation, dilute dispersions of homo-ionic montmorillonite dispersions mixed with varying concentrations of SiO2-colloids were prepared and selected samples were characterized by PCS, SEM/EDS, AFM and PXRD. The results from this study show that bentonite and montmorillonite particles can be modified by SiO2-colloids when mixed in comparable amounts, due to dehydration or high ionic strength. Some indications for increased colloidal stability for the SiO2-colloid modified clay particles were also found. From the AFM investigation it was found that initial attachment of the SiO2-colloids in Na+ dominated samples seemed to occur on the edges of the montmorillonite layers. In Ca2+ dominated samples not subjected to excess NaCl, SiO2-colloid sorption onto the faces of the montmorillonite layers was also found. In all, contact between the bentonite barrier and ungelled Silica sol should preferably be avoided., Updated from in press to published. QC 20120214

Compacted bentonite is proposed as an engineered barrier in many concepts for disposal of high level nuclear waste. After the initial deposition however, the bentonite barrier will inevitably be exposed to ionizing radiation (mainly gamma) under anoxic conditions. Because of this, the effects of gamma-radiation on the apparent diffusivity values and sorption coefficients in bentonite for Cs(+) and Co(2+) were tested under different experimental conditions. Radiation induced effects on sorption were in general more noticeable for Co(2+) than for Cs(+), which generally showed no significant differences between irradiated and unirradiated clay samples. For Co(2+) however, the sorption to irradiated MX80 was significantly lower than to the unirradiated clay samples regardless of the experimental conditions. This implies that gamma-radiation may alter the surface characteristics contributing to surface complexation of Co(2+). With the experimental conditions used, however, the effect of decreasing sorption was not large enough to be reflected on the obtained D. values., QC 20111107 Updated from submitted to published.

Silica sol, i.e., colloidal SiO2, may be used as a low-pH injection grout for very fine fractures in the construction of deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in Sweden and in Finland. If the bentonite barrier encounters SiO2-colloid particles under conditions favorable for aggregation, there is concern that it will modify the bentonite barrier at the bentonite/bedrock interface. In this study qualitative experiments were performed with mixed dispersions of SiO2-colloids and bentonite or homo-ionic Na/Ca-montmorillonite. Samples were prepared at different colloid concentrations and treated under various conditions such as low and high ionic strength (0.3 M NaCl), as well as dehydration and redispersing. Free swelling and settling experiments were performed in order to qualitatively compare the conditions in which SiO2-colloids affect the bulk/macro properties of bentonite. In order to study specific SiO2-colloid/montmorillonite interactions and preferred type of initial aggregation, dilute dispersions of homo-ionic montmorillonite dispersions mixed with varying concentrations of SiO2-colloids were prepared and selected samples were characterized by PCS, SEM/EDS, AFM and PXRD. The results from this study show that bentonite and montmorillonite particles can be modified by SiO2-colloids when mixed in comparable amounts, due to dehydration or high ionic strength. Some indications for increased colloidal stability for the SiO2-colloid modified clay particles were also found. From the AFM investigation it was found that initial attachment of the SiO2-colloids in Na+ dominated samples seemed to occur on the edges of the montmorillonite layers. In Ca2+ dominated samples not subjected to excess NaCl, SiO2-colloid sorption onto the faces of the montmorillonite layers was also found. In all, contact between the bentonite barrier and ungelled Silica sol should preferably be avoided., Updated from in press to published. QC 20120214

Compacted bentonite is proposed as an engineered barrier in many concepts for disposal of high level nuclear waste. After the initial deposition however, the bentonite barrier will inevitably be exposed to ionizing radiation (mainly gamma) under anoxic conditions. Because of this, the effects of gamma-radiation on the apparent diffusivity values and sorption coefficients in bentonite for Cs(+) and Co(2+) were tested under different experimental conditions. Radiation induced effects on sorption were in general more noticeable for Co(2+) than for Cs(+), which generally showed no significant differences between irradiated and unirradiated clay samples. For Co(2+) however, the sorption to irradiated MX80 was significantly lower than to the unirradiated clay samples regardless of the experimental conditions. This implies that gamma-radiation may alter the surface characteristics contributing to surface complexation of Co(2+). With the experimental conditions used, however, the effect of decreasing sorption was not large enough to be reflected on the obtained D. values., QC 20111107 Updated from submitted to published.

Silica sol, i.e., colloidal SiO2, may be used as a low-pH injection grout for very fine fractures in the construction of deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in Sweden and in Finland. If the bentonite barrier encounters SiO2-colloid particles under conditions favorable for aggregation, there is concern that it will modify the bentonite barrier at the bentonite/bedrock interface. In this study qualitative experiments were performed with mixed dispersions of SiO2-colloids and bentonite or homo-ionic Na/Ca-montmorillonite. Samples were prepared at different colloid concentrations and treated under various conditions such as low and high ionic strength (0.3 M NaCl), as well as dehydration and redispersing. Free swelling and settling experiments were performed in order to qualitatively compare the conditions in which SiO2-colloids affect the bulk/macro properties of bentonite. In order to study specific SiO2-colloid/montmorillonite interactions and preferred type of initial aggregation, dilute dispersions of homo-ionic montmorillonite dispersions mixed with varying concentrations of SiO2-colloids were prepared and selected samples were characterized by PCS, SEM/EDS, AFM and PXRD. The results from this study show that bentonite and montmorillonite particles can be modified by SiO2-colloids when mixed in comparable amounts, due to dehydration or high ionic strength. Some indications for increased colloidal stability for the SiO2-colloid modified clay particles were also found. From the AFM investigation it was found that initial attachment of the SiO2-colloids in Na+ dominated samples seemed to occur on the edges of the montmorillonite layers. In Ca2+ dominated samples not subjected to excess NaCl, SiO2-colloid sorption onto the faces of the montmorillonite layers was also found. In all, contact between the bentonite barrier and ungelled Silica sol should preferably be avoided., Updated from in press to published. QC 20120214

Silica sol, i.e., colloidal SiO2, may be used as a low-pH injection grout for very fine fractures in the construction of deep geological repositories for radioactive waste in Sweden and in Finland. If the bentonite barrier encounters SiO2-colloid particles under conditions favorable for aggregation, there is concern that it will modify the bentonite barrier at the bentonite/bedrock interface. In this study qualitative experiments were performed with mixed dispersions of SiO2-colloids and bentonite or homo-ionic Na/Ca-montmorillonite. Samples were prepared at different colloid concentrations and treated under various conditions such as low and high ionic strength (0.3 M NaCl), as well as dehydration and redispersing. Free swelling and settling experiments were performed in order to qualitatively compare the conditions in which SiO2-colloids affect the bulk/macro properties of bentonite. In order to study specific SiO2-colloid/montmorillonite interactions and preferred type of initial aggregation, dilute dispersions of homo-ionic montmorillonite dispersions mixed with varying concentrations of SiO2-colloids were prepared and selected samples were characterized by PCS, SEM/EDS, AFM and PXRD. The results from this study show that bentonite and montmorillonite particles can be modified by SiO2-colloids when mixed in comparable amounts, due to dehydration or high ionic strength. Some indications for increased colloidal stability for the SiO2-colloid modified clay particles were also found. From the AFM investigation it was found that initial attachment of the SiO2-colloids in Na+ dominated samples seemed to occur on the edges of the montmorillonite layers. In Ca2+ dominated samples not subjected to excess NaCl, SiO2-colloid sorption onto the faces of the montmorillonite layers was also found. In all, contact between the bentonite barrier and ungelled Silica sol should preferably be avoided., Updated from in press to published. QC 20120214

In Sweden and in many other countries, a bentonite barrier will be used in the repository for spent nuclear fuel. In the event of canister failure, colloidal diffusion is a potential, but scarcely studied mechanism of radionuclide migration through the bentonite barrier. Column and in situ experiments are vital in understanding colloid diffusion and in providing information about the microstructure of compacted bentonite and identifying cut-off limits for colloid filtration. This study examined diffusion of negatively charged 2-, 5-, and 15-nm gold colloids in 4-month diffusion experiments using MX-80 Wyoming bentonite compacted to dry densities of 0.6–2.0 g/cm3. Breakthrough of gold colloids was not observed in any of the three diffusion experiments. In a gold-concentration profile analysis, colloid diffusion was only observed for the smallest gold colloids at the lowest dry density used (estimated apparent diffusivity Da 5x10–13 m2/s). The results from a microstructure investigation using low-angle X-ray diffraction suggest that at the lowest dry density used, interlayer transport of the smallest colloids cannot be ruled out as a potential diffusion pathway, in addition to the expected interparticle transport. In all other cases, with either greater dry densities or larger gold colloids, compacted bentonite will effectively prevent diffusion of negatively charged colloids due to filtration., QC 20101013. Tidigare titel: "Colloid Permeability of Compacted Bentonite: Microstructural Constraints".

In Sweden and in many other countries, a bentonite barrier will be used in the repository for spent nuclear fuel. In the event of canister failure, colloidal diffusion is a potential, but scarcely studied mechanism of radionuclide migration through the bentonite barrier. Column and in situ experiments are vital in understanding colloid diffusion and in providing information about the microstructure of compacted bentonite and identifying cut-off limits for colloid filtration. This study examined diffusion of negatively charged 2-, 5-, and 15-nm gold colloids in 4-month diffusion experiments using MX-80 Wyoming bentonite compacted to dry densities of 0.6–2.0 g/cm3. Breakthrough of gold colloids was not observed in any of the three diffusion experiments. In a gold-concentration profile analysis, colloid diffusion was only observed for the smallest gold colloids at the lowest dry density used (estimated apparent diffusivity Da ≈5×10−13 m2/s). The results from a microstructure investigation using low-angle X-ray diffraction suggest that at the lowest dry density used, interlayer transport of the smallest colloids cannot be ruled out as a potential diffusion pathway, in addition to the expected interparticle transport. In all other cases, with either greater dry densities or larger gold colloids, compacted bentonite will effectively prevent diffusion of negatively charged colloids due to filtration.

Colloid generation and sedimentation experiments were carried out on Na- and Ca-montmorillonite in order to verify whether pseudo-equilibrium concentrations are reached at the same level in both types of experiments. The size and concentration of colloidal Na- and Ca-montmorillonite particles were monitored as a function of time and distance from the colloid bed in different ionic strength solutions. A stable pseudo-equilibrium concentration was reached after time in generation and sedimentation experiments. The colloid concentration decreased sharply at distances near to the colloid source. Na-montmorillonite concentration at pseudo-equilibrium (roughly quantified at distances ≥7 cm from the colloid source) was 5.2 ± 0.5, 0.5 ± 0.1, and 0.2 ± 0.1 mg L-1 in 0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 M NaCl solution, respectively, while the Ca-montmorillonite concentration was 0.4 ± 0.2 mg L-1 in 0.001 M NaCl., QC 20100908

The effect of temperature at different pH and ionic strengths on the aggregation kinetics of colloidal montmorillonite particles in aqueous dispersions was investigated. For a given temperature and pH, the rate constant for aggregation increased with increasing ionic strength. At pH:54 the rate constant for colloid aggregation increased with increasing temperature, regardless of ionic strength. At pH 10 the aggregation rate constant decreased with increasing temperature as a general trend. In the intermediate pH interval, the aggregation rate constant apparently decreased with increasing temperature except at the highest ionic strength, where it increased with increasing temperature. The aggregation rate constant decreased at alkaline pH compared with the acidic pH range. This effect became more pronounced at higher ionic strengths and higher temperatures but could not be observed at 4 degrees C. These observations are in qualitative agreement with DLVO calculations taking temperature, pH and ionic strength into account., QC 20100910. Original titel "Effect of pH and temperature on the stabiligy of bentonite colloid".

In many concepts for final storage of spent nuclear fuel bentonite will be used as an engineered barrier, mainly due to its inertness, plasticity and ability to retard transport of radionuclides by adsorption. In the event of water-bearing fractures making contact with the bentonite barrier, generation and transport of colloidal particles will strongly depend on groundwater composition and the surface properties of the colloidal particles. The bentonite barrier will unavoidably be exposed to ionizing radiation from the spent nuclear fuel but very little is known about effects of ionizing radiation on bentonite concerning colloidal stability. In this work we have studied the effect of gamma-radiation on the stability of dilute colloidal Na+-montmorillonite dispersions using a Cs-137 gamma-source (doses of 0-53.2 kGy). Aggregation kinetics and sedimentation experiments revealed significant radiation effects, evident as increased colloid stability. The only rationale for this is a gamma-radiation induced increase in surface potential. The effects appeared to depend on the Na+-montmorillonite concentration in the irradiated dispersions, indicating that the change in surface potential is induced by aqueous radiolysis products., QC 20100525

The environmental behaviour of colloidal clay in aquatic systems is linked to the properties of their aggregates. Earlier investigations of clay colloids were performed with electron microscope techniques which caused de-hydration of the particles. Information on the structure of colloid aggregates is needed for understanding their sedimentation behaviour, as well as colloid contaminant transport properties in natural systems. Scanning transmission X-ray microspectroscopy successfully produced images of montmorillonite colloid aggregates in a pseudo-equilibrium state in 1 mM NaCl suspensions equilibrated for more than a year. These clay aggregates were revealed at photon energies below the O absorption edges of clay and water. They were spherical or ellipsoidal with diameters of the order of 100-800 nm. The aggregates are porous and gel like with lower densities than the clay mineral. These investigations are important for modelling the occurrence of clay aggregates in aqueous environments., QC 20100525

QS 20120315

Abundance of the mineral chlorite as fracture filling material in granitic bedrock motivates sorption studies for quantification of the retention of radionuclides on this mineral. The activation product Ni-63 is an important component in spent nuclear fuel, accounting for a large contribution to the high activity level, and further motivates sorption studies of Ni on chlorite. Earlier sorption studies have been performed on larger mineral pieces; however, it is questionable if these data are representative for fracture filling material. Chlorite from a borehole core from Oskarshamn, Sweden, from the depth of 944 m has been characterized and the chemical composition determined prior to the experiments. The thickness of the fracture filling mineral is at maximum a couple of millimeters; therefore, careful removal of the thin chlorite layer from the core was performed with a carbide tool. The fraction was sieved to a size distribution of 63-118 mu m and ultrasonically washed. The major oxides were found to be 34.4 % SiO2, 21.6 % MgO, 15.4 % Al2O3 and 12.9 % Fe2O3 determined by Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis. Sorption of Ni(II) to the sample was performed in 0.1 M NaClO4 with a batch technique inside a glove-box with Ar-atmosphere, using Ni-63 as a tracer with the Ni carrier concentration of 10(-6) and 10(-8) M. The percent sorption in these experiments was 57% at pH 5.5, 85 % at pH 6.5 and 92 % at pH 8.3, with the last value corresponding to maximum sorption No significant differences between the experiments performed in the two concentrations of 10(-6) and 10(-8) M were found. The degree of sorption on this fracture filling material is of the same magnitude as earlier studies of Ni sorption on chlorite provided from larger mineral pieces, using the same size fraction of the material. Sorption of Ni is, as expected, strongly pH dependent and Ni-63 escaping a breached canister will, reaching chlorite within the surrounding, QC 20100819

In many concepts forfinal storage of spent nuclear fuel bentonite will be used as an engineered barrier,mainly due to its inertness, plasticity and ability to retard transport of radionuclides by adsorption. In theevent of water-bearing fractures making contact with the bentonite barrier, generation and transport ofcolloidal particles will strongly depend on groundwater composition and the surface properties of thecolloidal particles. The bentonite barrier will unavoidably be exposed to ionizing radiation from the spentnuclear fuel but very little is known about effects of ionizing radiation on bentonite concerning colloidalstability. In this work we have studied the effect ofγ-radiation on the stability of dilute colloidal Na+-montmorillonite dispersions using a Cs-137γ-source (doses of 0–53.2 kGy).Aggregation kinetics and sedimentation experiments revealed significant radiation effects, evident asincreased colloid stability. The only rationale for this is aγ-radiation induced increase in surface potential.The effects appeared to depend on the Na+-montmorillonite concentration in the irradiated dispersions,indicating that the change in surface potential is induced by aqueous radiolysis products.

The stability of the sodium and calcium forms of montmorillonite was studied at different NaCl and CaCl2 concentrations. The aggregation kinetics was determined from the decrease in particle concentration with time at different electrolyte concentrations. The DLVO theory defines the critical coagulation concentration (CCC) value as the electrolyte concentration that balances the attractive and repulsive potential energies between the particles, making aggregation diffusion-controlled. Therefore CCC values were obtained by extrapolation of the aggregation rate constants measured as a function of ionic strength to conditions where the rate constant value is determined by diffusion only. When the electrolyte was CaCl2, the CCC value was found to be approximately two orders of magnitude lower than the CCC values obtained using NaCl as electrolyte., QC 20100921

Through-diffusion experiments in bentonite with humic colloids in the size range of 1-10 nm were carried out. Bentonite was compacted to 0.6-1.8 g/cm(3) dry density and equilibrated with 0.01 and 0.1 M NaClO4 solutions. Experiments with Eu(Ill) diffusing in the absence and presence of humics were run in parallel, as well as Co(ll) diffusing through compacted bentonite in the presence of hurnics. The hurnic colloid diffusion experiments were run for 60 days and the humic concentration in the outlet solutions measured at time intervals. The experimental breakthrough curves for humic substances (HS) as well as the HS, Co(II) and Eu(III) profiles in the bentonite were simulated using the finite difference based computer code ANADIFF. Regardless of the compaction and ionic strength of solutions, hurnic colloids diffused through the compacted bentonite. The effects of hurnic colloids on both Co(H) and Eu(111) sorption as well as on diffusion were significant. The apparent diffusivity (D-a) increased significantly for both Co(II) and Eu(III) when hurnic colloids were present and the distribution coefficient (K-d) values decreased., QC 20100525

Uranium single particle analysis has been performed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and the performances are compared with that provided by scanning electron microsopy and single particle counting. The transient signal induced by the flash of ions due to the ionisation of all titanium Colloidal particle in the plasma torch can be detected and measured for selected uranium ion masses (U-238(+), U-235(+) or 254[(UO)-U-238-O-16](+)) by the mass spectrometer. The signals recorded via time scanning are analysed as a function of particle size or fraction of the studied element or isotope in the colloid phase. The frequency of the flashes is directly proportional to the concentration of particles in the colloidal suspension. The feasibility tests were performed on uranium dioxide particles. The study also describes the experimental conditions and the choice of mass to detect uranium colloids in a single particle analysis mode., QC 20100525

The stability of natural bentonite suspensions has been investigated as a function of temperature at pH 9 and ionic strength 10-3 M. The sedimentation rate of the particles is directly related to their stability. The sedimentation kinetics was determined by examining the variation of particle concentration in solution with time. The observed kinetics for sedimentation is discussed quantitatively in terms of the potential energy between particles. The ζ-potential of the particles was measured and the DLVO theory was used to calculate attractive and repulsive potentials. Experimental observations are consistent with DLVO model predictions and show that the stability of bentonite colloids increases with temperature. Differences with other colloidal systems can be attributed to the temperature dependence of the surface charge of bentonite particles., QC 20101001

Analysis in a single particle mode of gold colloids in water has been performed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The signal induced by the flash of ions due to the ionization of a colloid in the plasma torch can be measured for the ions (197)An(+) by the mass spectrometer without interferences. The intensity of the MS signal is recorded in time scan. The recorded peak distributions were analysed as a function of the colloid size for five monodisperse colloids (80-250 nm). This study describes the experimental conditions to analyse gold colloids in a single particle mode. The size detection limit is around 25 nm corresponding to 0.15 fg colloids and one particle per ml may be detected during a 1 min time scan within standard procedure., QC 20100525

Colloids, as humic acid, are known to be strong complexing agent for radionuclides. If such colloids are introduced into the bentonite barrier in a repository for spent fuel, the diffusivities for radionuclides can change. The colloid complexed radionuclides diffusivities will be governed by the colloidal diffusivities, and the transport of strongly bentonite sorbed radionuclides might be facilitated into the biosphere. The diffusive properties of Lignosulfonate (LS) colloids dissolved in 0.01 and 0.1 M NaClO4 in bentonite of dry densities 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, 1.5, and 1.8 g/cm(3) are studied. LS is used as a model substance for humic acid. Independent of ionic strength and of dry density apparent diffusivities in the order of 10(-8) cm(2)/s were obtained. The ratios of effective diffusivity/apparent diffusivity are in accordance with the porosities of the bentonite. The diffusing colloids were not found to be hindered by ionic exclusion or by filtering effects. The results indicate that the LS diffuse through the bentonite as small uncharged colloids. It seems that ionic strength greater than or equal to 0.01 M NaClO4 provides enough ions to shield the charged sites on the colloids, and the colloids can coil into smaller units., QC 20100525