Development of methods of solidification and burial of radioactive wastes from the fuel cycle

The report deals with methods for disposal of radioactive wastes from reprocessing plants. Apparatus and flowsheets developed in the USSR for solidification of low- and intermediate-level wastes are discussed. The main research and development results on treatment of high-level waste by two methods are presented. The first comprises production of vitreous materials in an electric furnace without precalcination. The second involves predehydration and calcination of liquid wastes in a fluidized-bed facility followed by vitrification in a ceramic crucible. Processes for intermediate-level waste solidification are also discussed. The study of the behaviour of various solidified wastes (vitreous, bitumenized, etc.) in storage has allowed the development of disposal conditions. The paper considers the design of storage places located at fuel reprocessing plants. The main technical and economic data are given on the solidification and storage processes for solids. (author)