Elemental behaviors in NBS glass under subsequential γ‐irradiation and corrosion

Abstract Borosilicate glass is a promising material for the immobilization of high‐level radioactive waste, and its irradiation stability is a critical factor influencing the leakage of radionuclides into the biosphere. This study investigates the impact of γ‐ray irradiation on three‐oxide sodium borosilicate glasses (NBS) at doses of 8 and 800 kGy at room temperature. Elemental depth profiles and leaching behavior are evaluated using TOF‐SIMS and ICP‐OES. The results reveal that the effect of γ‐irradiation on corrosion would soon recover after 1 day. Over longer periods, the corrosion behaviors of both pristine and irradiated samples become similar. Additionally, 800 kGy γ‐irradiation leads to a 30% increase in Na and B leaching in NBS9 in 16 days, along with enhanced initial leaching rates. However, despite these changes, the residual leaching rate of NBS9 remains constant, suggesting that increased corrosion may also promote the formation of passivating layers. It is concluded that although irradiation can alter glass properties, the impact of γ‐irradiation on long‐term leaching rates may be neglected during the corrosion processes.