Effect of ZnO in borosilicate solidification glass on Mo leaching rate in simulated high-level radioactive waste and its model prediction

BackgroundMo leaching rate is one of the key product properties for high molybdenum radioactive waste vitrification. Furthermore, soluble molybdenum yellow phase is easy to precipitate, resulting in the enhancement of Mo leaching. It was reported that ZnO can promote the network stability and chemical durability in borosilicate glass to some extent. Whereas, if the composition of solidification glass is complex, then whether ZnO can still improve the chemical stability is worth studying. On the other hand, due to the long period of chemical stability test, it is hoped that the Mo leaching rate can be predicted by mathematical simulation to accelerate the research process.PurposeThis study aims to investigate the effect of ZnO in borosilicate glass on Mo leaching rate in simulated high-level radioactive waste (HLW), and establish the prediction model of Mo leaching rate.MethodsFirstly, a series multi-component borosilicate solidification glass samples with simulated high MoO3 (mass ~3%) HLW and designed mass f