Encapsulation of Radioiodine in Cementitious Waste Forms

Abstract

ABSTRACTRisk assessment models applied to radioactive waste repository design disclose that iodine is one of the nuclides causing most concern. Computer calculations for these scenario studies assume that iodine, in the form of I−, is poorly sorbed on most geological materials. Therefore it is important that iodine be retained at source, ie. within the vault, for as long as is practicable.In the UK context, cements are likely to form a major part of the waste package for low and medium active wastes, and of engineered vault structures. These cements are likely to be blends of one form or another, including Portland cement blended with blast furnace slag, or fly ash. It is therefore important to assess the effect of Portland cement and blending agent on iodine speciation and uptake by the constituent solid phases. Data are presented on the uptake of I− on specific phases: Ca(OH)2, calcium aluminate sulphate hydrates, hydrotalcite and calcium silicate hydrogel (C-S-H). Combining this with a model for predicting phase assemblages in well-aged slag cements, yields an optimum blend for immobilising radioiodide, on ageing.Precipitation of I as AgI during cementation and radiolytic effects on I are also discussed. The production of gaseous radioiodine (I2) is potentially a serious problem.