Study of Alternative Methods for the Management of Liquid Scintillation Counting Wastes
Abstract
The Nuclear Engineering Waste Disposal Site in Richland, Washington, is the only radioactive waste disposal facility that will accept liquid scintillation counting wastes (LSCW) for disposal. That site is scheduled to discontinue receiving LSCW by December of 1982. The objective of this document is to study alternative methods for the management of LSCW which constitutes 40% in volume of the institutional waste generated in the U.S. The LSCW total radioactivity content is estimated at 8 Ci/year. Although this amount of radioactivity is relatively small, LSCW must be treated as radioactive waste under existing regulations. Disposal problems are compounded and some options limited because of the chemical nature of the organic solvents, e.g., their flammability and chemical toxicity. The techniques that have been evaluated as alternative methods for the management of LSCW are: (1) evaporation, (2) distillation, (3) solidification, (4) conversion to a less hazardous chemical form, and (5) combustion (which includes incineration and addition to fuel). Presently, incineration appears to be the most viable alternative although some of the other methods seem promising but require further development. Also, the waste disposal is likely to be simplified by reduction of the volume generated at the source and segregation of the waste by radioactivity concentration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA328505
Entities
People
- Lidia Roche-farmer
Organizations
- Nuclear Regulatory Commission