Hydration Aging of Nuclear Waste Glass

Abstract

The aging of simulated nuclear waste glass by contact with a controlled-temperature, humid atmosphere results in the formation of a double hydration layer penetrating into the glass and in the formation of minerals on the glass surface. The hydration process described here provides insight into the aging kinetics of naturally occurring glasses and also suggests that simulated aging reactions are necessary for demonstrating that nuclear waste forms can meet projected Nuclear Regulatory Commission requirements.