ABSTRACT
Nano-Hydroxyapatite (HAp) - polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL) gel was synthesized under pH
control. The polyvinyl alcohol was used as the organic carrier for precursor ceramic
gel. The ability of the formed hydroxyapatite – polyvinyl alcohol nanocomposite gel
for the removal of heavy metals and radioactive nuclides from the environmental
calibration standard (ECS) solution was analyzed by inductively coupled plasma
mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). The effect of the temperature on the ions removal from
ECS solution was studied at various temperatures of 25, 35, 40 ºC. Additionally, the
time for complete ions removal was studied between 10 to 45 min. The recorded
results showed the success of the gel in complete removal of all ions of the heavy
metals and radioactive nuclides after 45 minute of contact with ECS solution at room
temperature.