Quantum-CEP{trademark} applications to mixed and radioactive wastes

Quantum-CEP{trademark}(Q-CEP{trademark}) is an innovative and patented technology developed by Molten Metal Technology, Inc. (MMT) that can process radioactive and mixed waste streams to decontaminate and recover resources of commercial value while achieving significant volume reduction and radionuclide stabilization. A Q-CEP{trademark} demonstration facility is currently under design and construction for the processing of DOE mixed waste in a privatized mode. MMT has also joined forces with SEG to deploy Q-CEP{trademark} systems for processing spent ion exchange resins from nuclear power plants worldwide. A U.S. facility is currently under construction and will be operational by the end of 1995. These results highlight the technology`s unique features in processing radioactive and mixed waste: (1). Waste Minimization Performance: RCRA wastes are recycled into commercially valuable products: gases, ferroalloys and ceramics. Processing of mixed waste streams leads to complete destruction of hazardous contaminants and the potential formation of one or more decontaminated product streams such as fuel gas and/or metal alloys. (2). Environmental Performance: Processing of RCRA wastes leads to environmental performance surpassing regulatory standards. Destruction Removal Efficiencies (DREs) {ge} 99.9999% have been consistently demonstrated. (3). Controlled Radionuclide Partitioning: Processing of contaminated scrap metal results in metal decontamination {ge}99%, with current experimental demonstrations limited bymore » the lower detection limit (LDL) of the analytical equipment. (4) Final Form Stabilization: Multiple high temperature glass compositions have been developed for Q-CEP{trademark} applications. (5). Volume Reduction: Volume reduction from processing contaminated scrap metal is specific to individual scenarios and dependent on the initial form of the waste material. Processing of spent ion exchange resins results in volume reductions {ge}30:1.« less