Sorption mechanism of europium(III) onto metakaolin-based geopolymers

Metakaolin-based geopolymers (MKGPs) are ceramic-like materials used for nuclear waste stabilization. Therefore, understanding the sorption of ions on MKGPs is crucial where the cation exchange is considered as the main mechanism, yet the studies based on pH are limited. Thus, this study evaluates the effect of pH on the sorption mechanism of Eu(III) onto Na- and K-MKGPs. Here, time-resolved laser fluorescence spectroscopy (TRLFS) combined with parallel factor analysis, TRLFS in mixed D₂O/H₂O matrices, and extended X-ray absorption fine structure analysis. Eu(III) predominantly forms surface complexes with both MKGPs in the pH range of 4–11 at the open air environment, where three distinct surface species were identified at different pH values. The Eu(III) sorption mechanisms of both MKGPs are similar, involving ternary edge-sharing bidentate or monodentate inner-sphere surface complexation of Eu(III) with MKGP and silicate ions released from the MKGP up to pH 8, followed by the precipitation of Eu(OH)_3(S) within the pores of MKGP. The insights gained from this study will enhance the knowledge on MKGP for pollutant immobilization, thereby mitigating the spread of contaminants in the environment and expanding the potential application areas.