U(VI) Leaching from Uranium-Containing Sludge by using Aqueous Carbonate Solution

Many kinds of uranium-bearing waste are generated from uranium fuel-fabrication facilities.Sludge wastes, especially silica and iron sludges, contain high uranium concentrations.This research examined leaching of U(VI) from the sludge wastes by using aqueous carbonate solution, in which U(VI) was dissolved as stable uranyl carbonate complexes.The effects of the solution temperature and Na2CO3 concentration on the U(VI) leaching ratio were investigated.Based on the experimental results, the leaching mechanism and optimal leaching conditions are discussed.