Work

Radium partitioning and physical separability in multiphase NORM oily sludges: a radiochemical framework for centrifugal treatment

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) oily sludges are heterogeneous multiphase systems in which radiochemical partitioning does not necessarily translate into physical separability. This review critically compares reported radium distributions, host phases and oily-sludge separation studies and proposes a coupled framework combining the apparent distribution coefficient, K d , with a radium-bearing-solids recovery efficiency, η s . Quantitative evidence shows strong but matrix-dependent radium association with sulfate solids, while fine particles, colloids and emulsions can limit recovery. Isotope-specific activity-balance closure is proposed as a primary criterion for evaluating centrifugal volume reduction and its limitations.

Source: Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry

DOI: 10.1007/s10967-026-11269-1

Authors: Rafael L. Rodrigues, Rogério A. Filgueiras, Ademir X. Silva

Institution: Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro

Language: English

Topic: Radioactivity and Radon Measurements

Subfield: Radiation

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,790