Radioactive waste molecule

1994/04/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Ingurumena

Scientists claim a step forward in radioactive waste treatment research. And they have prepared a molecule called calixarene that seems to have a promising future. This molecule works as a chemical clamp. Leave the radioactive element in prisoner dissolution and free for the work that suits.

The molecule just dissolves in water and can work several times. Calixarenosos are not consumed or used to deteriorate. At the moment they are only used to capture the cesium element 137, with a living average of 30 years, and the cesium 135, with a living average of 2.9 million years.

Researchers have been investigating the issue for eight months and do not believe that industrial applications will be launched in less than ten years. The project was attended by entities such as the French CNRS or the COGEMA.