Efficient extraction of uranium(VI) in aqueous solution by contact-electro-catalysis

This work introducing a pioneering catalytic routes and processes facilitating the effective and efficient extraction of U(VI) from nuclear wastewater based on CEC. • An innovative approach of contact-electro-catalysis (CEC) was proposed for U(VI) extraction. • U(VI) in a wide concentration range of uranium solutions can be completely removed by CEC. • The efficient and selective extraction of U(VI) was realized in actual nuclear wastewater. • The mechanism of U(VI) removal by CEC was revealed. The efficient and eco-friendly extraction of uranium(VI) from nuclear wastewater continues to pose a significant challenge. Herein, an innovative approach of contact-electro-catalysis (CEC) has been employed for the extraction of uranium from aqueous solutions. Commercial polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) was utilized as a trigger catalyst to generate e - , · O 2 − and H 2 O 2 under ultrasonic stimulation. These then react with uranyl ions to yield (UO 2 )O 2 ⋅2H 2 O precipitates, facilitating efficient and selective extraction of uranium. In the absence of sacrificial agents, without the requirement of material preparation, and ambient atmosphere conditions, the removal rate of U(VI) at concentrations ranging from 1 to 100 mg/L under ultrasonic action (40 kHz, 180 W) exceeded 95 %. Additionally, it showed significant selectivity in the presence of coexisting ions. Furthermore, PTFE exhibits remarkable reusability in the process of uranium removal by CEC owing to its outstanding physicochemical stability. Notably, 82.6 % of U(VI) in actual low-concentration uranium-containing wastewater was extracted through CEC, confirming this method holds a promising application prospect. Our findings offer a convenient and eco-friendly strategy for effective and efficient extraction of uranium from nuclear wastewater based on the CEC, demonstrating powerful potential for practical applications.