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U.S. Department of Energy
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Physical and chemical characterization of borosilicate glasses containing Hanford high-level wastes

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6766955

Scouting studies are being performed to develop and evaluate silicate glass forms for immobilization of Hanford high-level wastes. Detailed knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of these glasses is required to assess their suitability for long-term storage or disposal. Some key properties to be considered in selecting a glass waste form include leach resistance, resistance to radiation, microstructure (includes devitrification behavior or crystallinity), homogeneity, viscosity, electrical resistivity, mechanical ruggedness, thermal expansion, thermal conductivity, density, softening point, annealing point, strain point, glass transformation temperature, and refractive index. Other properties that are important during processing of the glass include volatilization of glass and waste components, and corrosivity of the glass on melter components. Experimental procedures used to characterize silicate waste glass forms and typical properties of selected glass compositions containing simulated Hanford sludge and residual liquid wastes are presented. A discussion of the significance and use of each measured property is also presented.

Research Organization:
Atomics International Div., Richland, WA (USA). Rockwell Hanford Operations
DOE Contract Number:
AC06-77RL01030
OSTI ID:
6766955
Report Number(s):
RHO-SA-189; CONF-801124-35
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English