Study of Resistance of Cu3(C6H3(COO)3)2(H2O)3n (HKUST-1) to Electron Beam at Dosages of 0 to 150 kGy

Processing radioactive waste remains a formidable task in utilizing radioactive materials due to their inherent toxicity and carcinogenic nature, necessitating treatment before safe release into the environment. Among the methods employed for radioactive waste treatment, adsorption stands out, with considerable attention focused on an emerging adsorbent named Cu3(C6H3(COO)3)2(H2O)3n or Hong Kong University of Science and Technology-1 (HKUST-1), renowned for its distinctive properties. HKUST-1, being a porous material, holds promise as an effective agent for radioactive waste adsorption. In this investigation, HKUST-1 was synthesized via the solvothermal technique at 100°C, and its resilience was evaluated under electron beam irradiation at doses ranging from 50 to 150 kGy. Characterization techniques involving SEM, XRD, and adsorption tests were conducted to assess any alterations in HKUST-1's attributes pre- and post-irradiation. Results revealed modifications in HKUST- 1's characteristics following electron beam exposure, notably a decline in crystal adsorption quality within the 50 to 125 kGy dose range, indicating amorphization. Additionally, irradiation at 50 and 150 kGy demonstrated a potential for crystallization, thereby augmenting adsorption quality. Remarkably, the most favorable adsorption performance was observed at a 150 kGy irradiation dose, showcasing an average adsorbed gas volume of 332.05 cm3/g, a surface area of 947.747 m2/g, and a pore volume of 0.5586 cm3/g. © Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.