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Ceramic nuclear waste forms. II. A ceramic-waste composite prepared by hot pressing

Conference · · Am. Ceram. Soc. Bull.; (United States)
OSTI ID:7361995
A feasibility study has been conducted to determine whether nuclear waste calcine and a crystalline ceramic matrix can be fabricated by hot pressing into a composite waste form with suitable leaching resistance and thermal stability. It was found that a hard, dense composite could be formed using simulated commercial fuel reprocessing waste and a matrix of ..cap alpha..-quartz with a small amount of a lead borosilicate glass added as a consolidation aid. Its density, waste loading and leaching resistance are comparable to the glasses being considered for fixation of nuclear wastes. The hot-pressed composite offers a closer approach to thermodynamic stability and improved thermal stability (in monolithic form) compared with glass waste forms. Recommendations for further optimization of the hot-pressed waste form are given.
Research Organization:
Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park
OSTI ID:
7361995
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Am. Ceram. Soc. Bull.; (United States) Journal Volume: 55:2
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English