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

Sulfur polymer cement, a final waste form for radioactive and hazardous wastes

Conference ·
OSTI ID:549387
 [1]
  1. EG and G Idaho, Inc., Idaho Falls, IA (United States). Idaho National Engineering Lab.
Because of its unusual properties, sulfur polymer cement (SPC) is a promising solidification and stabilization agent for radioactive and hazardous wastes. SPC accepts no water and requires no activation agents. It always melts at 115 C and pours at 135 C; therefore, economical remediation is offered through remelt and addition of additives or more SPC to meet specifications. Compressive strength upon cooling is approximately 27.6 MPa (4,000 psi). SPC has survived for years in acids and salts that destroy or severely damage hydraulic concretes in months or even weeks. In tests with 5 wt% loading of pure toxic metal oxides in powder form, the US Environmental Protection Agency`s the toxicity characteristic leaching procedure shows the maximum leachate concentration of mercury, lead, silver, arsenic, barium, and chromium to be less than their established threshold limits. Tests to determine SPC`s expected longevity are being conducted and are encouraging.
DOE Contract Number:
AC07-76ID01570
OSTI ID:
549387
Report Number(s):
CONF-931119--
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English