[Solidification of middle-level wastes by the CEA by means of one plasma system]

The French Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) is actively interested in high temperature processes for treating its solid radioactive wastes. Following a promising preliminary test campaign, the CEA has implemented the PACT (Plasma Arc Centrifugal Torch) technology developed by Retech Inc. This technology forms the basis of the PLASMARC reg-sign test facility which is under evaluation at Cadarache. The requirements to meet for such a technology application to low and medium-level waste treatment are emphasized, especially the necessity to use cheap chemical additives for the obtaining of a low melting point matrix and a high waste incorporation level. The process performances for the treatment of incineration ashes are presented, i.e., the obtaining of a working point around the 1,170 C eutectic point, together with the elaboration of a glass matrix with reasonable resistance to leaching by water