Radiation-induced microcrystal shape change as a mechanism of wasteform degradation

Highlights: • Mechanical destruction of wasteforms containing actinides (ceramics and crystals doped with ²³⁸Pu) is overviewed. • For the first time the damaging effects caused by electrical fields induced by the decay of radionuclides are recognised. • Electrical field mechanism is an addition to recognised processes of matrix swelling and solid solution destruction. • Mechanical self-destruction can only be detected after extended times which can be many years or even decades. • To avoid potential damage the wasteform should be homogeneous and/or electrically conductive.