Improving the performances of Diffusive Gradient in Thin-films (DGT) technique to measure the labile uranyl concentration in environmental waters by employing the chelating properties of siderochelates

Uranium (U) presents a unique challenge for ecological risk assessments around installations related to the nuclear fuel cycle because of both chemical and radiological toxicity. Their relative importance depends on the chemical speciation and isotopic composition of the radionuclide, the latter being strongly correlated to its natural or anthropogenic origin (enriched or depleted U) [1]. In this framework, the Diffusive Gradient in Thin-films (DGT) technique is an appealing tool for monitoring the water quality around uranium processing plants, nuclear facilities or mining areas. Indeed, the DGT sampling allows to preconcentrate in situ the labile U(VI) species, allowing to simultaneously …