Laboratory Studies For Estimation Of Melting Rate In Nuclear Waste Glass Melters

In this paper the authors traced the causes of the slow melting rate in slurry-fed nuclear waste glass melters, and attempted to develop a laboratory-based method to estimate melting rate in large melters. SEM/EDS study of cold cap samples revealed microstructural differences among the top, middle and bottom layers along the reaction time and temperature gradients. Based on these results and literature review, optimal properties of the feed and other parameters were laid down. Constraints in selection of raw materials and slurry feed rheology were identified as the two major causes of slow melt rate. Optimum oxide loading and waste pretreatment were suggested as the corrective measures.