Remediation of low-level mixed waste: cellulose-based materials and plutonium

Low-level mixed radioactive wastes containing cellulose-based materials and plutonium have been generated during various nuclear processing activities. Biological digestion of the organic- or cellulose- based material was examined as an environmentally acceptable and effective method of treatment fo...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of hazardous materials 1996-11, Vol.51 (1), p.115-130
Main Authors: Ogden, Kimberly L., Ogden, Gregory E., Hanners, John L., Unkefer, Pat J.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Biodegradation
Cellulose-based material
Cheese cloth
Exact sciences and technology
Plutonium
Pollution
Radioactive waste
Radioactive wastes
Remediation cost analysis
Wastes
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Summary:Low-level mixed radioactive wastes containing cellulose-based materials and plutonium have been generated during various nuclear processing activities. Biological digestion of the organic- or cellulose- based material was examined as an environmentally acceptable and effective method of treatment for these and other similar wastes. Cellulase enzyme was used to initiate biodegradation prior to 90% destruction of the cellulose material by a sewage sludge consortium. Plutonium did not significantly effect the biodegradation. Bench-scale experimental data were used to design a batch treatment system. A cost and sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the optimal reactor size, materials of construction and media type. The sensitivity analysis indicated that while a 12-month treatment scenario using a carbon steel ball mill, sludge digester and vacuum thickener was the least expensive scenario evaluated on a levelized cost basis ($800 per ton of waste degraded per month), the 12-month scenario using stainless steel construction and the alternative dewatering system offered the most cost-effective treatment alternative and better corrosion resistance (levelized cost of $1130 per ton per month). The dewatering system consisting of a disk centrifuge and sludge dryer is capable of doubling the sludge solids content and produce an overall waste reduction of 67%. The proposed waste treatment system offers a cost savings of up to 31% compared to conventional disposal practices.
ISSN:0304-3894
1873-3336
DOI:10.1016/S0304-3894(96)01798-0