Immobilization of low-activity waste (LAW) stored at the Hanford site will result in 200,000 m3 of waste glass. It must be demonstrated that this glass can adequately retain radionuclides and prevent contamination of the surrounding environment. A study is being performed to determine the effect of glass composition on its ability to withstand the conditions in the Hanford site burial scenario. To predict the long-term corrosion behavior it is ncessary to study the composition and properties of alteration products. Vapor hydration test (VHT) was selected as a method to accelerate the corrosion process and to form the composition. Tests were conducted at temperatures ranging from 150 C to 300 C. Dissolution rates for most glasses were determined at 200 C. Selected glasses were tested at different temperatures in order to determine the apparent activation energies for dissolution and to determine the effect of temperature on the assemblage of alteration products.
Revised: October 11, 2010 |
Published: April 12, 2000
Citation
Jiricka A., J.D. Vienna, B.R. Allen, B.M. Jorgensen, and D.E. Smith. 2000.VHT Testing of Hanford LAW Glasses: Preliminary Results. In Waste Management Science and Technology in the Ceramic and Nuclear Industries and Science and Technology in Addressing Environmental Issues in the Ceramic Industry; Environmental Issues and Waste Management Technologies in the Ceramic and Nuclear Industries VI. Ceramic Transactions, edited by DR Spearing, GL Smith and RL Putnam, 119, 535-542. Westerville, Ohio:American Ceramic Society.PNNL-SA-33004.