Radiological Dispersion and Interfacial Chemistry
An analysis of multiscaled interfacial systems
Our focus is the study and control of properties that determine the behavior of multiscaled interfacial systems. These properties include composition, particle size distribution, surface charge, viscosity, and density. We have the capability to study these properties in radioactive and non-radioactive systems using equipment on bench tops, radiological fume hoods, glove boxes and hot cells.
We have extensive experience with the behavior of saturated salt solutions, high-level nuclear waste slurries, corrosion products from spent nuclear fuel, and drilling fluids. We have also developed many rheological simulants for use as surrogates for hazardous materials.
Interfacial colloidal systems are broadly defined as extremely small particles between roughly 0.001-10 um contained in a dispersion media. The colloid can be solid, liquid or gas while the dispersion medium is either liquid or gas. Common colloidal systems are listed below:
- Colloidal Suspension - Solid colloid in a liquid dispersant.
- Emulsion - Liquid colloid in a liquid dispersant.
- Foam - Gas colloid in a liquid dispersant.
- Aerosol - Solid or liquid colloid in a gas dispersant.
Due to the small size of the colloid particles, particle-particle interactions, particle-liquid interactions, and thermal convection, dominate gravitational mechanisms including sedimentation and deposition. The result is the formation of a stable suspension that can significantly impact material manufacturing, processing, transport and disposal, as well as migration and mitigation of contaminants in the environment.
Instrumentation includes:
- Controlled stress rheometers.
- Remote-controlled rate viscometers.
- Gas pycnometers.
- Particle Size Distribution Systems.
- Zeta Potential Analyzers.
- Tensiometers.
Point of Contact:
Ingrid Burgeson,
Separations and Radiochemistry Team
Phone: (509) 372-3650
Mailing Address
