Microbial effects on the radionuclide transport in a deep nuclear waste repository
- Centre d`Etudes Nucleaires de Cadarache, St.Paul Lez Durance (France)
This study deals with the effects of microorganisms on the transport of radionuclides under deep nuclear-waste disposal conditions. Metabolism of a cellulolytic microorganism is studied. Cellulose, as a carbon source, is representative of nuclear waste. A pilot device allows the study of the general effect of microrganisms. Bioleaching of radionuclides by a fungal culture is performed on columns of clay and cement used as engineered barriers. Cesium and Uranium had been incorporated into matrices prior to the tests. Operating conditions have been choosen according to realistic conditions of a deep repository. The production of organic acids by microorganisms is qualitatively and quantitatively determined. In addition, direct effects of microorganisms (biosorption, bioaccumulation) and indirect effects (complexing agents issued from the diodegradation of cellulose) on the transport and/or retardation of radionuclides are studied.
- OSTI ID:
- 62266
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-921101--Vol.294
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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