Effect of gamma Radiolysis on Waste Glass Leaching on Brines

摘要

The effect of gamma radiolysis of a deaerated, saturated, NaCl-rich brine on leaching of a simulated nuclear waste glass was evaluated at 50 and 90 exp 0 C and included interactive tests with ductile iron. Leach rate enhancements due to radiolysis were greatest at 50 exp 0 C. Inclusion of iron at this temperature, known to accelerate glass leaching in the absence of radiolysis, gave leach rates greater than for glass alone plus radiolysis or for glass plus ductile iron in the absence of radiolysis. However, at 90 exp 0 C, no enhancement in leaching due to radiolysis was evident with or without iron. It is concluded that reaction of the glass with transient radiolysis products is responsible for the leach rate increase at 50 exp 0 C. (ERA citation 08:046881)