Page "Zeolite" Paragraph 21

Zeolites have uses in advanced reprocessing methods, where their micro-porous ability to capture some ions while allowing others to pass freely, allowing many fission products to be efficiently removed from nuclear waste and permanently trapped.

Equally important are the mineral properties of zeolites.

Their alumino-silicate construction is extremely durable and resistant to radiation even in porous form.

Additionally, once they are loaded with trapped fission products, the zeolite-waste combination can be hot pressed into an extremely durable ceramic form, closing the pores and trapping the waste in a solid stone block.

This is a waste form factor that greatly reduces its hazard compared to conventional reprocessing systems.

Zeolites are also used in the management of leaks of radioactive materials.

For example, in the aftermath of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, sandbags of zeolite were dropped into the seawater near the power plant to adsorb radioactive caesium which was present in high levels.