Magnesium Potassium Phosphate Compound for Radioactive Waste Immobilization: Phase Composition, Structure, and Physicochemical and Hydrolytic Durability

Abstract

Low-temperature mineral-like magnesium potassium phosphate (MPP) compounds were synthesized in the course of immobilization of nitric acid solutions containing cesium, strontium, sodium, ammonium, lanthanum, and iron as simulated radioactive waste (RW). The phase composition and structure of the compounds and the distribution of the RW components were studied. The mechanical strength (15 ± 3 MPa), heat resistance (up to 450°С), and radiation resistance (absorbed dose 1 MGy) of the compounds were evaluated in accordance with the existing regulations. The MPP compound exhibits high hydrolytic durability: The differential leach rate of 239Pu and 152Eu on the 28th day, measured in accordance with GOST (State Standard) R 52 126–2003, is 2.1 × 10–6 and 1.4 × 10–4 g cm–2 day–1, respectively. Introduction of wollastonite into the compound decreases the radionuclide leach rate by a factor of up to 5. The MPP compound shows promise for industrial solidification of liquid RW, including high-level highly saline multicomponent actinidecontaining waste.