A Probe in to Site Occupancy of Uranium in Barium Aluminium Borate (BaAl2B2O7) Matrix by EXAFS and its Photoluminescence Studies

A host matrix with a potential of incorporating heavy element like uranium, that have several forms of stabilization is the key interest. Uranium-doped BaAl₂B₂O₇ is synthesized through solution combustion synthesis method. The luminescence studies indicate suitability of this alumino borate matrix to stabilize uranium as uranate (UO₆ ⁶⁻). The uranium life-time values suggest uranium to be surrounded by two different environments with varied defect concentration. The site occupancy of uranium in BaAl₂B₂O₇ is probed through EXAFS studies. It is observed that the preferred sites for uranium incorporation is the Al³⁺ regular lattice sites.