Diffusion of lignosulfonate colloids in compacted bentonite

Abstract Colloids, as humic acid, are known to be strong complexing agent for radionuclides. If such colloids are introduced into the bentonite barrier in a repository for spent fuel, the diffusivities for radionuclides can change. The colloid complexed radionuclides diffusivities will be governed by the colloidal diffusivities, and the transport of strongly bentonite sorbed radionuclides might be facilitated into the biosphere. The diffusive properties of Lignosulfonate (LS) colloids dissolved in 0.01 and 0.1 M NaClO 4 in bentonite of dry densities 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, 1.5, and 1.8 g/cm 3 are studied. LS is used as a model substance for humic acid. Independent of ionic strength and of dry density apparent diffusivities in the order of 10 −8 cm 2 /s were obtained. The ratios of effective diffusivity/apparent diffusivity are in accordance with the porosities of the bentonite. The diffusing colloids were not found to be hindered by ionic exclusion or by filtering effects. The results indicate that the LS diffuse through the bentonite as small “uncharged” colloids. It seems that ionic strength ≥0.01 M NaClO 4 provides enough ions to shield the charged sites on the colloids, and the colloids can coil into smaller units.