Incorporation of simulated waste raffinates containing 134Cs into cement-clay matrices

Simulated waste solutions containing 134Cs were incorporated into cement matrices at varying compositions and in the presence and absence of various additive materials. Montmorillonite and kaolinite clay minerals, in addition to sand, were added for improving the properties of the cement composites. The leachability of 134Cs was measured for different cement-clay mixtures. The effect of the presence of ions, such as borates, sulphate, and nitrates commonly found in waste raffinates, was also investigated. The results for compressive strength and leachability were explained in light of the effect of the presence of clay additives on cement matrices.