Properties of radioactive wastes and waste containers. First topical report

This topical report summarizes the results of the NRC sponsored program, Properties of Radioactive Wastes and Waste Containers, from its inception through September 1978. The properties of waste forms and packages resulting from the solidification of liquid concentrate and solid wastes generated as by-products of the liquid radioactive waste treatment systems in commercial BWRs and PWRs have been determined. The solidification agents currently employed at power reactors in the United States and (to a lesser extent) agents actively marketed for solidification of these wastes were considered. The waste form and package properties that have been studied in the experimental program include leachability, thermal stability, combustibility, thermal conductivity, mechanical strength, dispersibility, radiation stability, corrosion, and biodegradability. In addition, work has been conducted to determine the effects of various processing parameters on basic waste form criteria. This information is required to assess the safety and environmental impacts of radioactive waste disposal and to support quality control and assurance standards for radioactive waste treatment systems in operating facilities