Efficient removal of uranium from aqueous solution in a modified three-dimensional electrokinetic system

A modified electrokinetic system using activated carbon particles was proposed to quickly remove uranium (U). The influences of electrokinetic parameters such as voltage, length of particle electrode, particle electrode ration were studied through batch experiments. The results revealed that the three dimensional electrokinetic (3D-EK) treatment system showed a great potential for uranium removal. The uranium removal efficiency reached above 99% and the residual solution reached the discharge standard when pH = 2, voltage = 25 V,150 g/L of 4 mm particle electrode. The colloidal precipitates generated were detected as Fe(OH) 3 . Tthe probable removal mechanism is ascribed to the synergy of electromigration, electrocoagulation and adsorption.