(663c) Novel Separation Strategies for Drying Nuclear Waste Salts: Enhancing Long-Term Stability through Thin-Film Evaporation

The management of radioactive waste presents a formidable challenge, particularly in the stabilization of high-salinity nuclear brines. The need for effective moisture removal without volatilizing radionuclides or generating secondary waste streams necessitates innovative separation strategies. Thin-film evaporation has emerged as a promising solution for nuclear waste processing, enabling the controlled concentration and even drying of radioactive salts while ensuring long-term stability and minimization of environmental risks.

This study presents experimental data from pilot-scale trials, highlighting the effectiveness of thin-film evaporation in reducing water content in nuclear waste streams. A comparative assessment of traditional drying techniques is performed to showcase the advantages of thin-film technology in terms of energy efficiency, process speed, and product stability.

Further discussions include considerations for material compatibility in highly corrosive environments, strategies for automation in remote handling, and compliance with DOE and IAEA nuclear waste disposal guidelines. By integrating thin-film evaporation into nuclear waste treatment facilities, operators can enhance processing efficiency while ensuring the safe, long-term containment of radioactive materials.