Revolutionizing radioactive waste resin treatment: A comprehensive review of advanced technologies and future directions

Nuclear-grade ion exchange resins are essential for managing the water chemistry within the primary circuit of nuclear power plants. Once these resins have reached the end of their useful life, they are typically not regenerated, and their disposal presents a significant challenge due to radioactive contamination. Spent ion exchange resins represent a substantial portion of low- and intermediate-level radioactive solid waste generated during the decommissioning of nuclear facilities. Various treatment methods have been developed to address this waste, which can be broadly classified into oxidation decomposition methods and non-oxidation decomposition methods. Oxidative decomposition approaches include acid digestion, supercritical water oxidation, Fenton processes, steam reforming, incineration, pyrolysis and gasification plasma treatment, and molten salt oxidation. Conversely, non-oxidation decomposition methods encompass cementation, bituminization, plastic solidification, vitrification, hot Super Compression, high Integrity Container. This paper reviews the fundamental principles underlying these treatment methodologies along with recent research advancements while discussing their respective advantages and limitations. The emphasis is placed on the process flow and processing capacity of various methods in practical applications.