How is radioactive waste volume minimized during processing?

Radioactive waste volume is minimized during processing using several techniques to reduce the amount of material that needs to be stored and disposed of as radioactive waste. These techniques focus on concentrating the radioactive materials and removing non-radioactive components. One common technique is compaction, where compressible wastes, such as paper, plastic, and clothing, are compressed into smaller volumes using high-pressure compactors. Another technique is incineration, where combustible wastes are burned to reduce their volume and convert them into ash. The ash, which contains the radioactive materials, is then solidified for disposal. Evaporation is used to reduce the volume of liquid wastes. The liquid waste is heated to evaporate the water, leaving behind a concentrated residue containing the radioactive materials. The residue is then solidified for disposal. Filtration and ion exchange are used to remove radioactive particles and dissolved ions from liquid wastes. The filters and ion exchange resins, which contain the radioactive materials, are then solidified for disposal. Chemical precipitation is used to precipitate radioactive materials out of solution. The precipitate is then separated from the liquid and solidified for disposal. Solidification involves encasing the concentrated radioactive waste in a solid matrix, such as cement, asphalt, or polymers. This reduces the leachability of the waste and makes it easier to handle and dispose of. By implementing these volume reduction techniques, the amount of radioactive waste that needs to be stored and disposed of can be significantly reduced, lowering the costs and environmental impact of radioactive waste management.