Demonstration of a Continuous Pyrohydrolysis Waste Volume Reduction System

Abstract

Previous work has demonstrated the feasibility of using pyrohydrolysis for the volume reduction of low level radioactive waste in batch and semi-continuous mode. The results indicated that the process should be evaluated at the prototype stage using a 40.0 litre pressure vessel, and be operated continuously. Consequently, a two phase program was initiated using a demonstration pilot scale 40.0 litre pyrohydrolysis system from November 1984 to April 1985. During this period, solid waste was prepared for: (i) continuous feeding into the pyrohydrolysis system, and (ii) evaluations on the best mode of sample preparation. In addition, a series of tests were performed to assess the operation of pyrohydrolysis as a continuous process. Both solid and liquid wastes were processed continuously in the 40.0 litre pressure vessel and volume reductions from 85-97% and approximately 87% were achieved with liquid waste and solid waste, respectively.