The transition of Al phases in a simulated high-Al high-level nuclear waste melter feed heated at 5 K min-1 to 700°C was investigated with transmission electron microscopy, 27Al nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method, and X-ray diffraction. At temperatures between 300 and 500°C, porous amorphous alumina formed from the dehydration of gibbsite, resulting in increased specific surface area of the feed (~8 m2 g-1). The high-surface-area amorphous alumina formed in this manner could potentially stop salt migration in the cold cap during nuclear waste vitrification.
Revised: February 8, 2017 |
Published: January 3, 2017
Citation
Xu K., P.R. Hrma, N.M. Washton, M.J. Schweiger, and A.A. Kruger. 2017.Conversion of Nuclear Waste to Molten Glass: Formation of Porous Amorphous Alumina in a High-Al Melter Feed.Journal of Nuclear Materials 483.PNNL-SA-118421.doi:10.1016/j.jnucmat.2016.11.005