Thermodynamic Analysis of the Oxidation of Radioactive Graphite in the Na2CO3–K2CO3–Sb2O3 Melt in an Argon Atmosphere

Abstract

Abstract—Graphite is used as a neutron moderator and reflector. Moreover, graphite can be used as sealants and bearings in reactors. The graphite mass in a reactor is 1–2 ths t. A large amount of radioactive graphite wastes forms when graphite reactors are taken out of service. The existing methods of processing radioactive graphite are based on its isolation from the environment. These methods cannot substantially decrease the volume of radioactive graphite wastes. As a result, the processing of irradiated reactor graphite by oxidation in molten salts can be considered as an alternative reclamation method, which can decrease the volume of radioactive graphite wastes. The oxidation of radioactive graphite in the Na2CO3–K2CO3–Sb2O3 melt in an argon atmosphere is thermodynamically simulated using the TERRA software package. The data obtained are used to analyze the distribution of elements over condensed and gas phases. Heating of the system to 1073 K is found to cause the evaporation of the condensed compounds of antimony and cesium. Upon heating to 1273 K, the condensed compounds of potassium, sodium, and chlorine evaporate. Heating to 1373 K leads to the evaporation of the condensed compounds of nickel. Heating to 1673 K brings about the evaporation of the condensed compounds of uranium, calcium, and strontium. Heating to 1773 K causes the evaporation of the condensed compounds of plutonium, beryllium, americium, and europium. At temperatures above 1773 K, only a vapor–gas phase exists in the system.