Abstract: Processes and devices are disclosed for converting an aqueous waste solution, such as a radioactive waste stream, into a highly concentrated sludge having substantially little or no water. In turn, the sludge may be converted into a solid polymeric form suitable for storage. The processes utilize a carrier liquid which has a boiling point higher than that of water, and which facilitates the transfer of heat to the water to vaporize the water into steam. A subsequent separation of the dewatered solution yields the highly concentrated sludge.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 27, 1992
Date of Patent:
July 18, 1995
Assignee:
Monolith Technology Incorporated
Inventors:
Henry L. Lomasney, Michael A. Lomasney, Richard A. Graves
Abstract: Methods for the encapsulation and solidification of waste material, particularly radioactive ion exchange resin bead media, are provided along with the apparatus to accomplish the methods, and the final encapsulated storage article. The ion exchange resin is solidified within a containment vessel by the addition of a thermosettable polymeric binder without the need for a pre-mixing vessel. The resulting exothermic conditions occasioned by the curing of the polymer are controlled by the sequential delivery of the polymeric binder, preferably through an injection lance.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 12, 1993
Date of Patent:
May 16, 1995
Assignees:
Monolith Technology Incorporated, Scientific Ecology Group
Inventors:
Henry L. Lomasney, Michael A. Lomasney, Robert R. Bridges, Richard A. Graves