AbstractRemoval of 137Cs radionuclides from the environment has engrossed the concern of researchers after Fukushima accident. The leakage of radioactive cesium ions can lead up to surface and groundwater contamination, and this leads to pollution of drinking water sources. In this work, corchorus olitorius stalks has been used as a novel precursor for production of low-cost mesoporous activated carbon (Meso-AC) and HNO3/H2O2-modified Meso-AC (m-Meso-AC). The physicochemical properties of all adsorbents were evaluated. The influences of sorption parameters and presence of some ligands (humic acid, fulvic acid, and EDTA) on the sorption of 137Cs were studied. The maximum 137Cs capacity of m-Meso-AC was found to be 58.74 mg/g. Efficiency of the new adsorbent to remove 137Cs radionuclides from natural waters (tap, river, and groundwater) was investigated. The studies showed that new adsorbent could be used as promising material for the retention of 137Cs from real radioactive waste and natural water samples.
Cesium-137 stored on and discharged from banks of an agricultural canal in Iitate, Fukushima
