The effects of container materials and buffer additives on decreasing the iodide concentration in a disposal vault for spent nuclear fuel

J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng. 2007 Jan;42(1):39-43. doi: 10.1080/10934520601015461.

Abstract

To retard the migration of iodine released from a spent fuel after the break of a container, the reducing effects on the concentration of the iodide by container corrosion products and some buffer additives were examined in a solution with bentonite. Iron and copper, and their corrosion products scarcely reduced the iodide concentration. And kaolinite, chalcopyrite, pyrite, copper ore and galena, known as having a sorption property for iodine, did not noticeably sorb the iodide. However, palm active carbon, silver metal and Ag2O lowered the iodide concentration. Especially, Ag2O put into a disposal container would effectively hinder the migration of iodine to the outside of a disposal vault without a great loss if the pore size of the compacted buffer layer is maintained below 1 mu m.

MeSH terms

  • Buffers
  • Iodides / metabolism*
  • Nuclear Energy
  • Radiation Protection / instrumentation*
  • Radiation Protection / methods
  • Radioactive Waste*
  • Refuse Disposal / methods*
  • Waste Management / instrumentation
  • Waste Management / methods*

Substances

  • Buffers
  • Iodides
  • Radioactive Waste