Chemically bonded phosphate ceramics for low-level mixed-waste stabilization

This paper presents the fabrication procedures for phosphate waste forms with surrogate compositions of three typical mixed-waste streams, namely ash, cement sludges, and salts. The study was focused, but not limited to, magnesium phosphate-ash wastestream final waste form. The performance of the final waste forms, such as compression strength, leachability of the contaminants, and durability in aqueous environments were conducted. In addition, parametric studies have been conducted to establish the optimal ash waste loading in the magnesium phosphate binder system. Based on the results, potential applications are presented of phosphate-bonded ceramics in the treatment of various mixed-waste streams. 10 refs., 8 figs., 2 tabs