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Management of Commercially Generated Radioactive Waste - U.S. ...

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Response<br />

318<br />

ALTERNATIVE DISPOSAL CONCEPTS<br />

The fact that chemical resynthesis is a proposed waste form preparation technology that<br />

has undergone very little development, and that it would add processing complexity and pro-<br />

duce secondary waste streams are discussed in the final Statement, Section 4.3.<br />

Draft p. 3.2.2<br />

Issue<br />

It is suggested that monazite may be a poor example to use to defend the mineralogic<br />

options, since monazite in nature is normally discordant, typically through the loss <strong>of</strong><br />

uranium. (43)<br />

Response<br />

The extreme age <strong>of</strong> the monazites described (10 yrs) demonstrates that the fractional<br />

loss <strong>of</strong> uranium that may take place occurs at an extremely slow rate. This demonstrated sta-<br />

bility is what makes monazite behavior relevant in the context <strong>of</strong> waste immobilization.<br />

Draft p. 3.2.2<br />

Issue<br />

The word pegmatite should be replaced by migmatite. The reference (Leondardos, 1974)<br />

specifically states that pegmatite contribution to monazite deposits are trivial (p. 1126).<br />

On p. 1127, Leonardos states "migmatites have supplied the material for the bands within the<br />

quartzite". Thus, migmatite is the term required to support the reference." (113-EPA)<br />

Response<br />

The correct terminology is incorporated into the Glossary <strong>of</strong> the final Statement<br />

(Chapter 8.0).<br />

Draft p. 3.2.3<br />

Issue<br />

This paragraph (second) does not consider the effect <strong>of</strong> radiation damage in the glass.<br />

This should be mentioned. (113-EPA)<br />

Response<br />

Information on the effects <strong>of</strong> radiation on glass can be found in the references given<br />

in Section 4.3.2 <strong>of</strong> the final Statement. The effects <strong>of</strong> radiation on glass in the presence<br />

<strong>of</strong> heat and water have been studied extensively and have generally been found to be minor.

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