Engineered sorbent barrier screening studies

The objective of the Engineered Sorbent Barrier Program is to identify new and cost-effective technology for restricting the migration of radionuclides from low-level waste sites. The primary emphasis is to identify and evaluate sorbent materials as engineered barriers that will prevent radionuclide migration and yet allow moisture to pass. Screening studies have been completed to identify sorbent materials for cesium, cobalt, and strontium. The sorbent materials were selected based on criteria developed for this program and the empirical results of screening studies. The results of the study made it apparent that no single sorbent materials is effective for all radionuclides considered. Therefore, four composite sorbent barriers were identified for further evaluation in 0.6-m diameter columns. The large columns more accurately represent field conditions, generate permeability data, and enhance detectability of radionuclides in the leachate passing through the sorbent barriers. The four sorbent barriers include composites of activated charcoal, greensand, A-51 zeolite, and red pottery clay. Future studies will concentrate on completing the effectiveness evaluations with the large columns and identifying a more cost-effective sorbent material for strontium. 6 refs., 4 figs., 4 tabs