Novel cesium immobilization by alkali activation and cold consolidation of waste pharmaceutical glass

A new method of cesium immobilization has been successfully developed by combining alkali activation of boro-alumino-silicate glass and viscous flow sintering. Powdered glass from discarded pharmaceutical vials, suspended in a 2.5 M CsOH aqueous solution, underwent surface hydration as well as partial dissolution. Condensation reactions occurring at hydrated surface layers upon drying at 40 °C over 7 days resulted in welding of adjacent particles, forming a network that trapped newly formed gel and crystal phases. The newly formed phases including crystalline boro-pollucite (CsBSi2O6), were derived mostly from Cs+ ions reacting with the products of glass dissolution and exhibited a high chemical stability. Further stabilization was achieved through viscous flow sintering at 700 °C, resulting in the incorporation of Cs+ ions in a glass matrix. The effectiveness of the immobilization was confirmed by leaching test using the Materials Characterization Center-1 Standard (MCC-1). This innovative approach not only enhances the chemical stability of cesium waste forms, but also aligns with principles of cleaner production by repurposing pharmaceutical glass waste, promoting sustainable materials management.