Open AccessHazardous Gas Production by Alpha Particles
Author(s) -
Jay A. LaVerne,
Principal Investigator
Publication year - 2001
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Reports
DOI - 10.2172/791495
Subject(s) - explosive material , hazardous waste , methane , flammability , decomposition , radiolysis , waste management , hydrogen , helium , radiochemistry , environmental science , chemistry , materials science , nuclear engineering , nuclear physics , physics , engineering , irradiation , organic chemistry
This project focused on the production of hazardous gases in the radiolysis of solid organic matrices, such as polymers and resins, that may be associated with transuranic waste material. Self-radiolysis of radioactive waste is a serious environmental problem because it can lead to a change in the composition of the materials in storage containers and possibly jeopardize their integrity. Experimental determination of gaseous yields is of immediate practical importance in the engineering and maintenance of containers for waste materials. Fundamental knowledge on the radiation chemical processes occurring in these systems allows one to predict outcomes in materials or mixtures not specifically examined, which is a great aid in the management of the variety of waste materials currently overseen by Environmental Management