Liquid Low-level Radioactive Waste Treatment by Membrane Processes

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe first step in the processing of low- and medium-level liquid radioactive waste is the reduction in the volume of liquid containing small concentrations of radionuclides. Various methods for concentration of radioactive waste have been studied and developed at the Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, including membrane processes. Reverse osmosis was implemented at the Radioactive Waste Management Plant. Other methods such as ultrafiltration, membrane distillation, adsorption and different integrated processes were studied in the scope of national and international projects.This paper presents the results of research performed at Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology in Warsaw concerning radioactive liquid waste treatment and the programs of implementation of these methods at nuclear centers producing such wastes, as well as the plans for the utilization of the knowledge and experience and designs of schemes for radioactive waste management in future nuclear power industry. The integrated system developed on the basis of research will be a prototype for further implementation.