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The Effect of Gamma Radiation on the Dissolution of High-Level Waste Glass in Boom Clay

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 March 2011

K. Lemmens  and
P. Van Iseghem
K. Lemmens
Affiliation:
Waste and Disposal Department, SCK•CEN, Boeretang 200 B-2400 Mol, Belgium Email: klemmens@sckcen.be
P. Van Iseghem
Affiliation:
Waste and Disposal Department, SCK•CEN, Boeretang 200 B-2400 Mol, Belgium
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Abstract

The effect of γ-radiation on the dissolution of candidate high-level waste glasses was investigated in potential disposal environments at 90°C. The media consisted of mixtures of Boom Clay, bentonite clay and cement with clay water. During the experiments the pH of Boom Clay decreased, probably mainly by radiolytical oxidation of pyrite. The addition of bentonite, cement and glass buffered the pH decrease. Under radiation the glass mass losses decreased, whereas the leach rate of soluble elements was not influenced or appeared to increase. This is explained through the radiolytical acidification, and possibly by bubble formation in the glass.

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 663: Symposium – Scientific Basis for Nuclear Waste management XXIV , 2000 , 227
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2001

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References

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