Uranium electrodeposition at boron-doped diamond electrodes

This study investigates the impact of the uranium electrodeposition process on a boron-doped diamond electrode (BDD) surface at varying potentials as a means of environmental uranium remediation. The chronoamperometry technique was employed for the electrodeposition process, applying potentials ranging from − 0.60 to − 2.00 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). A 2-mM uranyl acetate dihydrate (UO₂(C₂H₃O₂)₂·2H₂O) solution in 0.1-M KClO₄ served as a model uranyl ion (UO₂²⁺) source. Analysis using scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) confirmed the presence of uranium and the formation of a thin layer on the electrode surface. Roughness measurements obtained through AFM analysis at different applied potentials vs. RHE were compared before and after uranium electrodeposition at BDD electrodes. Additionally, the identification of various uranium oxides resulting from the electrodeposition procedures was conducted using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy. These analyses revealed the presence of UO₂, UO₃, and U₃O₈ on the BDD electrode surface due to the electrochemical deposition process, with a notable proportion of U₃O₈ observed. Ultimately, the optimal potential for efficient U⁶⁺ remediation from aqueous media and the formation of a homogenous thin layer conducive to nuclear technology development was determined to be − 1.75 V vs. RHE. Graphical abstract: (Figure presented.).