Silanization for minimizing tracer cation sorption on glass vials

The loss of soluble cationic species by adsorption to glass vial walls is problematic for experiments performed at tracer concentrations. Silanization increases glass hydrophobicity to reduce cation sorption to glass surfaces. This work examines the efficacy of silanization in decreasing europium and thorium loss through glass sorption in aqueous and mixed aqueous/organic phases. The influence of the solution pH, ionic strength, electrolyte, metal concentration, organic diluent’s nature, and the addition of complexing extractants was investigated. Overall, results indicate that silanization effectively decreases cation loss to sorption to glass walls.