Phase composition and radiation stability of matrices for isolation of REE-actinide waste

Safe treatment with highly radioactive wastes from processing of irradiated fuel is a key problem at the final stage of the nuclear energy cycle. The waste prod ucts are currently immobilized in glassy matrices for loading in underground storage [1]. Glasses are insuf ficiently stable for isolation of long living radionu clides, including actinides. It is suggested to fraction ate such wastes and include long living nuclides in the most stable crystalline matrices in order to increase safety [2]. The available technologies allow us to sepa rate actinides (U, Np, Pu), the REE–actinide compo nent, and products of decay.