| Popis: |
Preliminary modeling efforts for the Hanford Site`s Low Level Waste-Performance Assessment (LLW PA) identified {sup 129}I, {sup 237}Np, {sup 79}Se, {sup 99}Tc, and {sup 234},{sup 235},{sup 238}U as posing the greatest potential health hazard. It was also determined that the outcome of these simulations was very sensitive to the parameter describing the extent to which radionuclides sorb to the subsurface matrix, i.e., the distribution coefficient (K{sub d}). The distribution coefficient is a ratio of the radionuclide concentration associated with the solid phase to that in the liquid phase. The objectives of this study were to (1) measure iodine, neptunium, technetium, and uranium K{sub d} values using laboratory conditions similar to those expected at the LLW PA disposal site, and (2) evaluate the effect of selected environmental parameters, such as pH, ionic strength, moisture concentration, and radio nuclide concentration, on K{sub d} values of selected radionuclides. It is the intent of these studies to develop technically defensible K{sub d} values for the PA. The approach taken throughout these studies was to measure the key radio nuclide K{sub d} values as a function of several environmental parameters likely to affect their values. Such an approach provides technical defensibility by identifying the mechanisms responsible for trends in K{sub d} values. Additionally, such studies provide valuable guidance regarding the range of K{sub d} values likely to be encountered in the proposed disposal site. |
