Size and composition analyses of colloids in deep granitic groundwater using microfiltration/ultrafiltration while maintaining in situ hydrochemical conditions

Aosai, Daisuke*; Yamamoto, Yuhei*; Mizuno, Takashi   ; Ishigami, Toru*; Matsuyama, Hideto*

In studies of colloids in deep groundwater, a serious problem exists because the properties of the colloids are influenced by changes in the chemistry of groundwater upon exposure to the atmosphere and pressure release during sampling. Then, ultrafiltration technique, while maintaining in situ hydrochemical conditions was developed. As the result of the investigation using the method at the Mizunami underground Research Laboratory (MIU), different types of colloids consisting of inorganic and organic substances were observed and complex formation between the colloids and REEs was suggested. Furthermore, characteristic partitioning of REEs depending on colloids size was observed in complex natural environments without chemical disturbance. The current findings are useful for understanding migration of radionuclides.