Preliminary parametric performance assessment of potential final waste forms for alpha low-level waste at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory. Revision 1

Abstract

A preliminary parametric performance assessment (PA) has been performed of potential waste disposal systems for alpha-contaminated mixed low-level waste (ALLW) currently stored at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory. The radionuclide-confinement performance of treated ALLW in various h a 1 waste forms, in various disposal locations, and under various assumptions was evaluated. Compliance with performance objectives was assessed for the undisturbed waste scenario and for intrusion scenarios. Some combinations of final waste form, disposal site, and environmental transport assumptions lead to calculated doses that comply with the performance objectives, while others do not. The results will help determine the optimum degree of ALLW immobilization to satisfy the performance objectives while minimizing cost.

Environment, Safety, and Health Risk Assessment Program (ESHRAP)

“…The contaminant release from the disposal unit to the leachate, originally developed only for grout, was expanded to include other waste forms. The grout results were adjusted up or down to account for different waste forms, based on the parametric studies outlined in the report Smith et al (1995).…”

“…The percentages of organic matter, clay, silt, and sand for grout were obtained from Moss et al (1995). Other waste form values were estimated based on recommended values listed in Eide et al (1996), which were obtained primarily from Preliminary Parametric Performance Assessment of Potential Final Waste (Smith et al 1995). Cadmium/ 7440-43-9…”