An Integrated In Situ Raman and Turbidity Sensor for High Level Waste Tanks

Stored nuclear waste must be retrieved from storage, treated, separated into low- and high-level waste streams, and finally put into a disposal form that effectively encapsulates the waste and isolates it from the environment for a long period of time. However, before the waste can be retrieved, the waste composition must be characterized so that proper safety precautions can be implemented during the retrieval process. In addition, there is a need for active monitoring of the dynamic chemistry of the waste during storage, because the waste can become highly corrosive. This project will develop a novel fiber optic Raman transmission and light scattering probe, with improved sensitivity and capability, for operation in turbid media. The dual Raman and turbidity sensor will provide chemical identification of nuclear waste as well as information concerning the suspended particles in the waste (turbidity). Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: In addition to the DOE application for environmental management, a dual Raman/turbidity sensor could be used to monitor the water quality and ecological status of various bodies of water, identifying sources of water contaminants and providing an early warning of potential environmental hazards. The sensor also should find application in industrial process monitoring, where fiber optic Raman interfaces are already used.