Thorium Phosphates as Matrices for Radionuclide Immobilisation

In the framework of the long-term repository of radwastes, host matrices that are very resistant to water corrosion, that have high thermal stability, and that are resistant to α,β,γ self-irradiation are needed. To immobilise the radionuclides, especially those with a long decay period, some ceramic matrices like monazite [1], zircon [2], Synroc [3], zirconium phosphate [4], or pyrochlores [5] have been proposed.