Volatilization of Cesium and Ruthenium From High-Level Waste Glass

Kamizono, Hiroshi; ,

Volatilization of Cesium and Ruthenium From High-Level Waste Glass

by Hiroshi Kamizono, Japan Atomic Energy Research Inst, Japan,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: High Level Radioactive Waste Management 1990

Abstract:

The contamination of the air above high-level waste glass by ¹³⁴Cs, ¹³⁷Cs and ¹⁰⁶Ru was examined in an almost closed stainless steel canister in steps from room temperature to 1000?C. The temperature dependence of air contamination by cesium showed an activation energy of about 140 kJ/mol. The air contamination by ruthenium is about one fifth that of cesium. One exception was observed at 1000?C where ruthenium was under the detection limit probably because of its reaction with the oxidized stainless steel canister. On the other hand, after the glass in the canister has been subjected to high temperatures up to a maximum of 1000?C, various volatile elements are suspended in the plenum with the dust produced from the corroded canister and have the possibility of being released through any holes in the canister. The results described above are useful for predicting possible air contamination in a storage facility during operation or as the result of an accident.

Return to search