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Generation of Volatile Organic Compounds by Alpha Particle Degradation of Wipp Plastic and Rubber Material

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  25 February 2011

Donald T. Reed  and
Martin A. Molecke
Donald T. Reed
Affiliation:
Donald T. Reed, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439.
Martin A. Molecke
Affiliation:
Martin A. Molecke, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM 87185-1341.
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Abstract

The generation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), hydrogen, and carbon oxides due to alpha particle irradiation of polyethylene, polyvinylchloride, hypalon, and neoprene, is being investigated. A wide diversity of VOCs was found including alkenes, alkanes, alcohols, ketones, benzene derivatives, and nitro compounds. Their yields however, were quite low. The relative amounts of these compounds depended on the material, atmosphere present, and the absorbed dose. This investigation will help evaluate the effect of ionizing radiation on the long-term performance assessment and regulatory compliance issues related to the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP).

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 333: Symposium V – Scientific Basis for Nuclear Waste Management XVII , 1993 , 233
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1994

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References

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