Abstract

Immobilization of radioactive wastes (RW) containing large amounts of process alkalis in ceramic matrices based on acid and basic rocks is studied. Immobilizing characteristics of samples with an RW content of 15% are obtained. The best geoceramic matrices are characterized by the forward leaching rates with double-distilled water of ∼1 × 10-4 and ∼1 × 10-5 g cm-2 day-1 for Sr and Cs, respectively, and the steady-state leaching rate of about 2 × 10-6 g cm-2 day-1. Possible fixation mechanisms of the radionuclides in the matrices studied are discussed. Comparative analysis of properties of the geoceramic matrices and borosilicate and some other existing matrices for RW immobilization makes it possible to recommend some kinds of the geoceramics as matrices for immobilization of nonfractionated intermediate- and high-level radioactive wastes.

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