Immobilization of radionuclides in single-phase crystalline waste forms: Areview of their intrinsic properties and long term behaviour

Crystalline solids considered as potential host matrices for specific immob ilization of radionuclides are reviewed. First of all, fundamental data on their physical, mechanical, cristallographic and thermodynamical properties are compiled. Then, based on the available literature, their long term beh aviour is described in terms of dissolution rate, radiation effects and sur face sorption properties. A comparative discussion about their respective p erformance is presented. Finally, some further experimental work required t o complete the data base are suggested and new experimental investigations to be carried out are proposed.