Experimental Evaluation of Changes in Properties of Natural Minerals Under Irradiation

Radiolysis of Salts and Long-Term Storage Issues for Both Pure and Impure PuO{sub 2} Materials in Plutonium Storage Containers

“…However, the efficacy of the liberated energy increases with absorbed dose. Therefore, to prevent the liberation of accumulated energy, the temperature in the salts should not exceed the lower limit of the hightemperature release interval (i.e., 170¡C) (Spitsyn et al 1981). Weber and Ewing (1997) discuss the temperature dependence of stored-energy accumulation and defect-recovery kinetics.…”

“…A rise in temperature above 170¡C can lead to an instantaneous liberation of accumulated energy and, consequently, an additional temperature rise (Spitsyn et al 1981). As mentioned, major thermal annealing or the liberation of accumulated energy in salts takes place above 170¡C and can result in hazardous consequences (Spitsyn et al 1981). …”

“…This temperature level also reduces the chances of an accidental release of large quantities of stored energy. If the temperatures were high, they would also contribute to the removal of water adsorbed on the PuO 2 particles, and the chances of significant hydrogen generation and over-pressurization would also be affected (Spitsyn et al 1981).…”