TiO2 as a cost effective uranium getter for uranium contaminated sites

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Nuclear energy provides one of few promising, cleaner alternatives to fossil fuel, and is expected to grow rapidly due to the increasing demand of energy and the growing concern over the impact of fossil fuel on climate change. As the largest producer and exporter of uranium in the world, Canada will play a major role in the development. Although technological developments have reduced construction costs and improved nuclear power plant safety, there is increasing concern over the environmental and human health impact related to uranium mine tailings and disposal concepts (e.g., geological repositories). Based on the strong association of uranium with anatase in natural uraniferous systems, here we propose to use titanium oxide (TiO2) as a novel, cost-effective uranium getter for uranium mine tailing sites, contaminated aquifers, and high-level nuclear waste containers. By conducting field and laboratory experiments and quantum chemistry calculations, we will investigate the mechanisms and optimal conditions for the uranium removal by TiO2. The technique will then be validated at uranium-contaminated sites. This is a timely research that will contribute significantly to the uranium economy in Canada, to the protection of the environment, and to the improvement of public confidence in the entire uranium fuel cycle.