Design and Properties of Novel Uranium-Containing Layered and Framework Materials

Abstract

Ten uranyl-containing frameworks and one layered material have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. These compounds belong to eight structure types, not previously described. They are constructed from uranyl units in different coordination environments, phosphate or iodate anions, and incorporate main group or transition metal polyhedra. Six materials were found to have selective ion exchange properties. Their stabilities at elevated temperatures were examined. Thermally stable ion exchangers could be recommended for the further investigations under the simulated conditions of nuclear waste. Introduction of transition metals also leads to the appearance of non-linear optical and magnetic properties. A new synthetic method for the production of uranyl-containing framework materials is also proposed.