Corrosion Resistance of Chernobyl NPP Lava Fuel-Containing Masses

Chernobyl NPP (ChNPP) lava fuel-containing masses (LFCM) chemical composition and properties are analysed with emphasis on corrosion resistance. It is shown that LFCM need additional conditioning because of changes occur and overall low corrosion resistance. The expedience to vitrify ChNPP LFCM is discussed with an optimal conditioning method which would combine joint vitrification of ChNPP LFCM and boron-containing liquid radioactive waste (salt cake) from NPP using cold crucible melters (CCM). Glass corrosion resistance is analysed with focus on alkali-borosilicate glasses typical for nuclear waste immobilisation. Radiation effects are discussed including self-heating which is found small at expected sizes of waste canisters. The impact of radiation-induced effects in glasses is also considered.