The influence of penetrating gamma radiation on the reaction of simulated nuclear waste glass in tuff groundwater
Static leaching experiments have been performed to determine the influence of penetrating gamma radiation on the reaction of simulated nuclear waste glass in tuff groundwater at 90{degree}C. Both the leachates and the reacted glass monoliths were analyzed to characterize the reaction. Radiation was seen to acidify the leachates, but the high bicarbonate content of the groundwater prevented the pH values from dropping below 6.4. The glass reaction tended to raise the pH. Glasses based on SRL 165 black frit and PNL 76-68 glass compositions were leached. The SRL 165 type glasses were quite durable (as measured by the elemental mass loss after constant reaction times) and were unaffected by radiation. The PNL 76-68 glasses were much less durable, with the durability decreasing (after constant reaction times) as the exposure rate was increased. The primary effect of radiation is a lowering of the leachate pH which then affects the glass leaching rate. 9 refs., 5 figs.
- Research Organization:
- Argonne National Lab., IL (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-31109-ENG-38
- OSTI ID:
- 137546
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-890488--12; ON: DE90002257
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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