Sequestration of U(VI) from aqueous solutions using precipitate ion imprinted polymers endowed with oleic acid functionalized magnetite.

The use of a polymeric sorbent material embedded with oleic acid coated magnetic particles as selective sorbents for the removal of U(VI) ions from industrial waste effluents was studied. In the presence of other competing ions [Th(IV) and Ni(II)], U(VI) was preferentially adsorbed. Inclusion of nano-magnetic particles in the polymer matrix aided the separation of the sorbents from aqueous solutions by application of external magnetic field. High recoveries indicated that the sorbent is suitable for application in contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]