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U.S. Department of Energy
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Method for dissolution and stabilization of silica-rich fibers

Patent ·
OSTI ID:563665
A method is described for dissolving silica-rich fibers such as borosilicate fibers, fiberglass and asbestos to stabilize them for disposal. The method comprises (1) immersing the fibers in hot, five-weight-percent sodium hydroxide solution until the concentration of dissolved silica reaches equilibrium and a only a residue is left (about 48 hours), then immersing the residue in hot, five-weight-percent nitric acid until the residue dissolves (about 96 hours). After adjusting the pH of the dissolved fibers to be caustic, the solution can then be added to a waste vitrification stream for safe disposal. The method is useful in disposing contaminated HEME and HEPA filters. 1 fig.
Research Organization:
Westinghouse Savannah River Co
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC09-89SR18035
Assignee:
Dept. of Energy, Washington, DC (United States)
Patent Number(s):
US 5,686,365/A/
Application Number:
PAN: 7-821,653
OSTI ID:
563665
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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