Self-propagating high-temperature synthesis and characteristics of cermet matrices for isolation of wastes with long-lived radionuclides

The possibility of preparing by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) metal-ceramic (cermet) matrices with simulated wastes of REE-actinide fraction and Tc was examined. The specimens consist of oxide crystalline phases, glass, and melts. In the aluminate composite, the component (Sm) simulating the REE-actinide fraction is in the garnet and glass phases, and in the titanate composite, in the pyrochlore, titanosilicate of perrierite structure, and glass phases. Rhenium (Tc simulator) is incorporated in alloy phases. To evaluate the prospects for radioactive waste immobilization by SHS, it is necessary to synthesize matrices containing actinide isotopes (Am) and Tc and to study their structure and isolation properties.