The project will involve structural studies of zeolites and other porous inorganic solids that can act as ion exchange media for the safe removal of radionuclides from the environment. The aim is to further the understanding of the ion exchange mechanisms at the atomistic level and provide accurate structural details for computer modelling studies. The research will entail analysis of powder diffraction data using both Rietveld and Pair Distribution Function techniques and the data will come from synchrotron X-ray sources, in particular Diamond Light Source, whenever possible. Atomistic computer modelling of the processes will be done as long as suitable atom-atom potentials can be obtained or derived. Systems for study will include at least two different clinoptilolites (Mud Hills being one), mordenite and synthetic umbites developed at Birmingham under DISTINCTIVE.
Academic Lead: Joe Hriljac
