CONTAMINATION OF RADIOACTIVE SUBSTANCES WITH CLAY MINERALS

The article considers the use of clay minerals as a geologic barrier for radioactive waste disposal. The importance of safe and long-term isolation of radioactive substances from the biosphere is emphasized, as well as the role of clay minerals in providing this isolation. The mechanisms of radionuclide retention by clay minerals are reviewed, including sorption, ion exchange and precipitation. The advantages of using clay clay minerals as ISBs are discussed.