September 30, 1997
Conference Paper

Effects of Beta/Gamma Radiation on Nuclear Waste Glasses

Abstract

A key challenge in the disposal of high-level nuclear waste (HLW) in glass waste forms is the development of models of long-term performance based on sound scientific understanding of relevant phenomena. Beta decay of fission products is one source of radiation that can impact the performance of HLW glasses through the interactions of the emitted {beta}-particles and g-rays with the atoms in the glass by ionization processes. Fused silica, alkali silicate glasses, alkali borosilicate glasses, and nuclear waste glasses are all susceptible to radiation effects from ionization. In simple glasses, defects (e.g., non-bridging oxygen and interstitial molecular oxygen) are observed experimentally. In more complex glasses, including nuclear waste glasses, similar defects are expected, and changes in microstructure, such as the formation of bubbles, have been reported. The current state of knowledge regarding the effects of {beta}/{gamma} radiation on the properties and microstructure of nuclear waste glasses are reviewed.

Revised: February 12, 2020 | Published: September 30, 1997

Citation

Weber W.J. 1997. Effects of Beta/Gamma Radiation on Nuclear Waste Glasses. In CEA/Valrho summer session. Glass: Scientific Research for High Performance Containment, August 31-September 7, 1997, Mejannes-Le-Clap, France, INIS-FR-1477, 194-209. Bagnols-Sur-Ceze, :Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique. PNNL-SA-29459.