The Application Of Novel "Hazmelt" Waste Vitrification Technology To The Vitrification Of "Magnox Sludge" Simulant Waste And Other Ilws

A wide range of ILW wastes exists both in the UK and internationally which possess no currently accepted route for immobilisation. "Hazmelt" waste vitrification technology provides a route by which a wide range of these problematic ILW type wastes may be vitrified safely and economically. "Hazmelt" technology combines a new furnace technology and novel glass compositions to achieve the vitrification of a wider range of wastes that may be achieved through conventional routes. The "Hazmelt" technology has been applied to the vitrification of 500kg of simulated "Magnox pond sludge" through the use of glass compositions specifically engineered to incorporate the problematic components of the waste. The technology (combining melter and glass composition) was demonstrated using simulated wastes containing both reactive metal components and high moisture content in order to demonstrate the tolerance of the furnace and glass compositions. Detailed outcomes of this trial, the technology and glasses used as well as associated testing on other ILW simulants are discussed.