Characterization of mechanical strengths for simulated high-level waste forms

Waste forms have been developed and characterized at PNC (Power Reactor and Nuclear Fuel Development Corporation) to immobilize high-level liquid waste generated from the reprocessing of nuclear spent fuel. Mechanical strength tests were executed on simulated solidified high-level waste forms which were borosilicate glass and diopside glass-ceramic. Commercial glass was tested for comparison. Measured strengths were three-point bending strength, uniaxial compressive strength, impact strength by falling weight method, and Vickers hardness. Fracture toughness and fracture surface energy were also measured by both notch-beam and indentation technique. The results show that mechanical strengths of waste glass form are similar and that the glass ceramic form has the higher fracture toughness. (author)