ASTM C1720-21 - Standard Test Methods for Determining Liquidus Temperature of Waste Glasses and Simulated Waste Glasses

1.1 These test methods cover procedures for determining the liquidus temperature (T_L) of nuclear waste, mixed nuclear waste, simulated nuclear waste, or hazardous waste glass in the temperature range from 600 °C to 1600 °C. This test method differs from Practice C829 in that it employs additional methods to determine T_L. T_L is useful in waste glass plant operation, glass formulation, and melter design to determine the minimum temperature that must be maintained in a waste glass melt to make sure that crystallization does not occur or is below a particular constraint, for example, 1 volume % crystallinity or T_1%. As of now, many institutions studying waste and simulated waste vitrification are not in agreement regarding this constraint (1).2

1.2 Three methods are included, differing in (1) the type of equipment available to the analyst (that is, type of furnace and characterization equipment), (2) the quantity of glass available to the analyst, (3) the precision and accuracy desired for the measurement, and (4) candidate glass properties. The glass properties, for example, glass volatility and estimated T_L, will dictate the required method for making the most precise measurement. The three different approaches to measuring T_L described here include the following: Gradient Temperature Furnace Method (GT), Uniform Temperature Furnace Method (UT), and Crystal Fraction Extrapolation Method (CF). This procedure is intended to provide specific work processes, but may be supplemented by test instructions as deemed appropriate by the project manager or principle investigator. The methods defined here are not applicable to glasses that form multiple immiscible liquid phases. Immiscibility may be detected in the initial examination of glass during sample preparation (see 9.3). However, immiscibility may not become apparent until after testing is underway.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.