Iodine release behavior from iodine-immobilized cement solid under geological disposal conditions

• Published in: Progress in nuclear energy (New series) 2016-09, Vol.92, p.273-278
• Main Authors: Yamashita, Yu, Higuchi, Shinichi, Kaneko, Masaaki, Takahashi, Ryota, Sakuragi, Tomofumi, Owada, Hitoshi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Calcium aluminate; Cement; Ettringite; Iodine; Solubility equilibrium model; Sulfate
• ISSN: 0149-1970
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pnucene.2016.04.016

The iodine release behavior from the iodine-immobilized cement was investigated. From the results of immersion tests using ion-exchanged water (IEW) and calculations, the solubility equilibrium model could describe the iodine release behavior. To assess the performance of cement in an actual environment, it is important to confirm that the solubility equilibrium model is applicable to the geological disposal conditions. From immersion tests using simulated ground water, the release of iodine from the cement occurred in a shorter period of time than in the case of IEW, and reactions with CO32− and Cl−, which were contained in the simulated ground water, had an influence on the iodine release behavior. As a result of calculations using the solubility equilibrium model, the liquid-solid ratio at which the iodine was completely released was mostly in agreement with the results of immersion tests. The results show that this model can be applied in a wide range of environments. •To study the iodine release, immersion tests using simulated water were conducted.•Main iodine-fixing mineral was ettringite.•Iodine wasn't present in the secondary solid phases.•Dissolution of ettringite was promoted by carbonate.•Solubility equilibrium model can be applied in a wide range of environments.