Selection of solid matrix for immobilization of nuclear waste and of geological sites for its disposal represents a complex and consuming task. Previously, we demonstrated that the ion-ion interaction potential (HIP), representing the main term of the cohesive energy, can be used for estimation of stability of solid matrix/impurity systems. Here we demonstrated a strong correlation between the weathering properties of minerals and their IIIP. Based on these results we proposed a simple theoretical criterion which can be used for assessment of the long term stability of solid matrix for immobilization of radioactive and toxic metals. This criterion was applied in analysis of stability of autunites and some possible practical consequences of results obtained for immobilization of uranium by apatite are discussed.28th Symposium on the Scientific Basis for Nuclear Waste Management held at the 2004 MRS Spring Meeting, Apr 13-16, 2004, San Francisco, C
