Characterization of undissolved solids from the dissolution of North Anna reactor fuel

Samples of undissolved solids (UDS) from the dissolution of North Anna reactor fuel were characterized to investigate the effects of using air or oxygen as the oxidant during tritium removal. The UDS composition data also support the development of a waste form for disposal. There was no discernible effect of the oxidant used during the tritium removal process or the size fraction on the UDS composition. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive (x-ray) spectroscopy were used to estimate the oxygen content of the UDS and it was found to be potentially significant, on the order of 30% by mass and 80% by atom.