Pourbaix diagram for the prediction of waste glass durability in geologic environments

Dissolution of nuclear waste glass occurs by corrosion mechanisms similar to those of metallurgical and mineralogic systems albeit on different time scales. The effects of imposed pH and oxidation potential (Eh) conditions existing in natural environments on metals and minerals have been quantitatively and phenomenologically described in compendiums of Pourbaix (pH-potential) diagrams. Construction of Pourbaix diagrams to quantify the response of nuclear waste glasses to repository specific pH and Eh conditions is demonstrated. The expected long-term effects of groundwater contact on the durability of nuclear waste glasses can then be unified. 40 refs., 4 figs., 1 tab