Insoluble Solids from Salt Dissolution: Characterization and Testing

Technical Report · Sun Oct 01 04:00:00 EDT 2023

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/2204807· OSTI ID:2204807

Hunter, Seth C. ^[1]

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1. Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL), Aiken, SC (United States)

Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) has further characterized insoluble solids that were observed in a variable depth sample from a salt dissolution campaign in Tank 9H. The insoluble solids were determined to be predominately gibbsite, a mineral form of aluminum hydroxide. From a review of salt dissolution testing and field experience, SRNL provided a realistic estimate of 8 vol% for solids of this type is formed per volume of saltcake dissolved. This estimate was doubled to 16 vol% to account for dissolution test uncertainty and differences between in-tank settling and laboratory testing. Savannah River Mission Completion (SRMC) is currently assessing the solids formed during salt dissolution as slurried sludge for hydrogen retention and release, which is driving flammability controls during salt dissolution activities. SRMC has requested SRNL perform a gas retention and release study to better understand the impact of the insoluble solids on waste tank flammability, and to provide a more accurate estimate of their ability to retain and release flammable gases.

• Research Organization: Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL), Aiken, SC (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Environmental Management (EM)
• DOE Contract Number: 89303321CEM000080
• OSTI ID: 2204807
• Report Number(s): SRNL--STI-2023-00166
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE WASTES FROM NUCLEAR FACILITIES
Gibbsite
Insoluble Solids
Salt Dissolution