Solubilization of Ni(II) and Eu(III) through complexation with a polyaryl ether based superplasticizer in alkaline media

• Solubilisation of Ni(II) and Eu(III) by complexation with a polyaryl ether based superplasticizer (PAE SP) in alkaline solutions was studied. The solubilization was investigated in two types of artificial cement pore waters simulating different stages of cement degradation at a pH of 12.4 and 13.3, respectively. The solubility of Ni(II) and Eu(III) increased as the concentration of superplasticizer was increased from 0.04 to 0.4 wt%. When the concentration of SP was increased from 0.4 to 4%, the solubility of Eu(III) and Ni(II) increased in the pore water with a pH of 12.4, while the concentrations decreased in the pore water with a pH of 13.3. This is explained by a more rapid degradation of the superplasticizer at higher pH leading to a release of phosphate groups and thereby precipitation of Eu(III) and Ni(II) as phosphates. Based on results of the solubilisation of Ni(II) and Eu(III) by model compounds (anisole and PEG 400) and 31P NMR spectroscopy it was confirmed that the complexation of the studied metals with the PAE polymer occurs via the phosphate group of the superplasticizer.

Subject headings

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Kemi (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Chemical Sciences (hsv//eng)

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)