May 16, 2021
Report

Crystallization Constraints for WTP LAW Operations: Assessment of CCC Impacts on VHT and PCT

Abstract

Much work has been done to expand the glass composition region available for operation of the Hanford Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant. This includes the development of updated glass property-composition models as well as constraints. This report supports this effort by suggesting constraints for avoiding excessive, and likely detrimental, crystallization during slow cooling of the low-activity glass waste forms in their containers. The constraints target crystals in the Na-Al-silicate and Na-Ca-silicate families. These types of crystals were found to be potentially detrimental to glass durability as they remove Al and Si from the glass matrix, resulting in poor performance of the residual glass during testing such as the Product Consistency Test and the Vapor Hydration Test. Using previously acquired results and results from testing during this effort, the constraints described in the report were determined, and are suggested as options to reduce the risk of forming crystals of the types and concentrations that are likely detrimental to glass durability.

Published: May 16, 2021

Citation

Lonergan C.E., E.L. Rivers, D.L. Bellofatto, D. Kim, and J.D. Vienna. 2021. Crystallization Constraints for WTP LAW Operations: Assessment of CCC Impacts on VHT and PCT Richland, WA: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.