Characterisation of co-mixed HIP wasteforms for Magnox sludge and clinoptilolite wastes

Co-mixed simulant wasteforms consisting of calcined Magnox sludge simulant and clinoptilolite, with additions of a glass forming frit and CeO2 or U3O8 were processed using Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP). This enabled the production of high waste loaded materials, with the successful incorporation of both simulant and active material. These formed heterogeneous glass-ceramic products, with decomposition of raw materials and some vitreous phase formation. The aqueous durability of these materials was assessed over a 28-day period using a modified PCT test, and favourably compared to the durability of an international glass. Overall this verifies the potential for HIP technology to be used in wasteform production, with potential large reductions in waste volume, especially if co-mixed wastes are considered.