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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Synroc for Immobilizing Excess Weapons Plutonium

Conference ·
OSTI ID:382851
 [1];  [1];  [1];  [2]
  1. Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Menai, NSW (Australia)
  2. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
The immobilization of excess weapons plutonium into Synroc can meet all of the important criteria discussed by the US National Academy of Sciences (NAS) for disposal, if the disposal option is pursued rather than options that exploit the energy value of plutonium. This paper summarizes the relevant background of Pu incorporation into Synroc, the durability of Pu-containing Synroc and outlines a process flowsheet based on the experience with the 10 kg/hr Synroc Demonstration Plant at ANSTO. The extensive solid solubility of Pu in Synroc, coupled with a very high degree of chemical durability under hydrothermal conditions, makes Synroc ideal as a waste matrix for Pu disposal in deep boreholes to minimize diversion and proliferation risks.
Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States); Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Menai, NSW (Australia)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Nuclear Criticality Safety Program (NCSP)
OSTI ID:
382851
Report Number(s):
CONF-941075; ISBN 1-55899-253-7
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English