Melt densification of radioactive plastic wastes

Volume reduction studies were carried out on low level radioactive plastic wastes containing polyethylene, PVC and neoprene by melt densification. The optimized temperature for melting of plastics was between 170 and 180 degrees C. Based on laboratory scale studies. Plant scale studies were planned and conducted. The volume reduction factors obtained were around 30, which was 6-10 times higher than that of the conventional compaction process. Thermogravimetry and infrared spectroscopy were used to investigate the thermal and structural properties of the given materials. The effect of the presence of salts like potassium permanganate and hydrazine sulphate on the thermal properties of the materials was also evaluated. Leaching studies were also performed on melt-densified specimens in the laboratory. The average leach index was observed to be around 9, which was higher than the minimum stipulated value.