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BNFL Lysimeter Proaramme to Investigate the Leachina of Radlonuclides from Low-Level Radioactive Waste

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 1992

K. Clayton ,
R. Clegg ,
R.G.G. Holmes  and
G.W.A. Newton
K. Clayton
Affiliation:
Sellafield Technical Department, British Nuclear Fuels plc, Sellafield, United Kingdom
R. Clegg
Affiliation:
Sellafield Technical Department, British Nuclear Fuels plc, Sellafield, United Kingdom
R.G.G. Holmes
Affiliation:
Sellafield Technical Department, British Nuclear Fuels plc, Sellafield, United Kingdom
G.W.A. Newton
Affiliation:
Newton Systems, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Abstract

British Nuclear Fuels ple has initiated an experimental programme to measure the leaching behaviour of radionuclides from various low level radioactive waste (LLW) mareials using Lysimeters. The programme commenced in 1986 and to date 10 lysimeters have been commissioned. These have concentrated on simulating shallow trench conditions but a further programme is now planned to study concrete vault environments. The aim of the study is to provide information on leaching processes as part of the ongoing Drigg Near Field Programme, and also to yield input data for radiological assessment purposes. Towards this end, data have been gained from the lysimeters on basic chemistry, gas generation and radionuclide Release Coefficients. This paper concentrates on one of the lysimeters which has recently been decommissioned and for which interim analytical data are available. Some general comments are given on BNFL's experience using lysimeters and their applicability as a rapid and effective technique for studying near field degradation processes.

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 294: Symposium V – Scientific Basis for Nuclear Waste Management XVI , 1992 , 857
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1993

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References

REFERENCES

1. Rushbrook, P.E., J. Poulton (BNFL) and C. Checkley: Second Report on the Low Level Waste Lysimeter Leaching Experiment at the Drigg Disposal Site, Cumbria: Second Year Result from Lysimeter 1 and Designs for Lysimeters 2, 3 and 4. AERE - G4913, February 1989.Google Scholar
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