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Effect of CaCl2 concentration on surface desiccation cracks of red clay and its radon retardation performance

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Abstract

Soil covering method is commonly used in uranium tailings pond beach management, but the material used and environmental factors can affect long-term safety and stability. The study tested CaCl2 solution concentrations for desiccation crack development and radon retardation in red clay. Four red clay radon shielding layer specimens with varying solution concentrations underwent drying tests. Results showed that soil mineral composition remained unchanged and the crack rate decreased with increased CaCl2 solution concentration; the best radon retardation effect is achieved by mixing CaCl2 solution with 3% concentration. These findings can guide effective radon treatment on uranium tailing pond beach surfaces.

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Funding

The funding was provided by National Natural Science Foundation of China, 42277458, Yong Liu, Environmental Protection Research Project of Hunan Province, HBKT-2021024, Changshou Hong.

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Correspondence to Changshou Hong.

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Li, X., Chen, Y., Hong, C. et al. Effect of CaCl2 concentration on surface desiccation cracks of red clay and its radon retardation performance. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 332, 3317–3324 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-023-09030-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-023-09030-z

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