ABSTRACT: Several different types of aerogels and xerogels are demonstrated as effective sorbents for the capture and/or immobilization of radionuclides and other contaminants in gaseous form [e.g., Hg(g), I2(g), Xe, Kr] as well as ionic form (e.g., Cd2+, Ce4+, Cs+, Cu2+, Fe2+, Hg2+, I-, IO3 -, Kr, Pb2+, Rb+, Sr2+, 99Tc7+, U6+, Zn2+). These sorbents have unique properties, which include high specific surface areas, high pore volumes, a range of pore sizes, and functionalities that provide methods for binding radionuclides and other contaminants, generally through physisorption, chemisorption, or a combina
