Experimental design approach for identification of the factors influencing the γ-radiolysis of ion exchange resins

International audienceGamma radiolysis was investigated on a nuclear grade mixed bed ion exchange resin and its pure components under different irradiation conditions. Screening designs were performed to identify the factors influencing gas production after their γ-radiolysis and to compare their γ-degradation stability. Only hydrogen and trimethylamine quantities were considered as the response in the experimental designs. The other detected gases and water-soluble products were used to improve the resins degradation. Aerobic irradiation atmosphere decreased the H 2g production of AmbOH, MB400, and amines. The water presence increased the H 2g quantities for AmbH and decreased those for MB400 resin. Liquid water had no effect on H 2g production from AmbOH but was favorable to increased amine production. The H 2g production of AmbH increased with the absorbed dose that had little effect on the AmbOH resin. No impact of dose on the H 2g production was detected for MB400 that appeared to be less degraded