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Abstract
In this study, binders within the system Mg(OH)2–NaAlO2–SiO2–H2O were produced and characterised for the potential immobilisation of radioactive Mg(OH)2 sludges derived from the UK Magnox nuclear programme. The formation of zeolites promoted hardening within 24 h, with the structures and compositions of the zeolites dependent on the contents of SiO2 in the systems. Limited consumption of Mg(OH)2 was identified in the binders cured for up to 90 days, except for a hydrotalcite type layered double hydroxide in binders formulated with low SiO2 contents. This study has elucidated that binders within this system can effectively encapsulate high contents of Mg(OH)2; however, the reaction of Mg(OH)2 to form binding phases is limited by the content of SiO2 in the system, and occurs primarily at advanced times of curing.
Acknowledgements
This study has been sponsored by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council through the University of Sheffield/University of Manchester Doctoral Training Centre ‘Nuclear FiRST’ and through a Nuclear Decommissioning Authority CASE award, under supervision by the National Nuclear Laboratory. The donation of microsilica by ELKEM Silicon Material (United Kingdom) is greatly appreciated.