SELECTING OF MATRIX COMPOSITION FOR IMMOBILIZATION OF IRRADIATED FUEL OF THE IGR REACTOR

Abstract

Impulse Graphite Reactor (IGR) is a unique nuclear installation namely research reactor with the core consisting of uranium-graphite fuel elements with 90% enrichment by U235. Possible immobilization of the first core taken from the reactor in 1967 is studied here as part of the IGR reactor conversion to low-enriched uranium fuel. Irradiated fuel is related to the category of mediumactive waste according to the content of beta-emitters. Expected value of highly-enriched uranium fuel (HEU) burnup rate was less than 1 % mass. The experts from the Institute of Atomic Energy (IAE) proposed the way how to immobilize irradiated IGR reactor fuel into the cement matrix. First, the fuel is suggested to dilute with depleted uranium in order to lower the enrichment up to the <20 mass. % by U235. The properties of the matrix should meet the engineering criteria ruled by international and national standards. So, according to aforesaid, The IAE team is facing an actual problem of selection the matrix and understanding its characteristics.The work was aimed at selection of composition of cement mortar for making robust matrix to immobilize irradiated IGR reactor fuel.The paper describes techniques and results of the time identification (start) of solidification, gradual volume change, water separation, velocity and uniform cement mortar.