Physical characterization of radioactive sludges in selected Melton Valley and evaporator facility storage tanks

Physical measurements were performed on typical radioactive sludge samples from selected Melton Valley Storage Tanks (MVSTs) and evaporator facility storage tanks at ORNL. These measurements included viscosity, particle size, density, sedimentation rate, and solids content. The techniques developed during this project are simple and use inexpensive apparatus to assay the range of physical properties spanned by the sample set. The report provides data in support of the design of the proposed Waste Handling and Packaging Plant, and research and development activities in developing waste management alternatives. 5 refs., 11 figs., 6 tabs