Volatilization of Cesium from Nuclear Waste Glass in a Canister

Abstract

Volatilization of ¹³⁴Cs from simulated high-level waste glass in a canister during several reheatings up to a maximum of 1000°C was examined. The results showed that the temperature dependence of the amount of ¹³⁴Cs suspended in the air inside the canister could be divided into two categories. As the temperature was increased above 500°C, the amount of ¹³⁴Cs suspended in the air inside the canister also increased. On the other hand, for temperatures <500°C, the amount of ¹³⁴Cs suspended in the air inside the canister had an almost constant value after several reheatings up to a maximum of 1000°C. In this case, the air contamination by cesium-bearing material inside the canister is considered to be significant even at waste storage temperatures <500°C.