ABSTRACT
The chemical speciation of trace radionuclides in aqueous systems is determined by a variety of competitive reactions, including the formation of surface species. The sediments act as traps for many radionuclides, forming complexes and otherwise adsorbed surface compounds. In this way, the dissolved ions exist in dynamic equilibrium with bed sediment and suspended particles. The reactions between dissolved radionuclides and functional surface groups can be described as coordination reactions, and the surface oxides, as multiple ligand systems.
