What are the common methods used to process high-level nuclear wastes?

Vitrification and decay storage are commonly used methods for processing high-level nuclear wastes, making this choice the most suitable.

Vitrification involves converting waste materials into a stable glass form by melting them with glass-forming additives. This method immobilizes the radioactive isotopes, rendering them less harmful and preventing them from leaching into the environment. The resulting glass is highly durable and suitable for long-term storage.

Decay storage is another method that allows high-level waste to be placed in secure facilities where it can undergo radioactive decay over time. During this period, the levels of radioactivity decrease as shorter-lived isotopes decay, which can significantly reduce the hazard associated with the waste. After sufficient decay, the waste may be easier to handle or can be subjected to further processing.

These methods are integral to managing high-level nuclear waste, focusing on safety, environmental protection, and long-term containment. The other options involve processes that may not be effective or appropriate for high-level waste treatment. For instance, incineration is not feasible for high-level waste due to the potential release of harmful materials, and land disposal methods without proper containment measures would pose environmental risks. Thus, the choice of vitrification and decay storage aligns with the best practices in nuclear waste management.