Which method involves encapsulating high-level wastes in glass for long-term storage?

The method of encapsulating high-level wastes in glass for long-term storage is known as vitrification, which falls under the category of solid waste processing. This technique involves mixing radioactive waste with glass-forming materials and then heating the mixture to a high temperature so that the waste is incorporated into the glass. Once cooled, this glass matrix provides a stable form that immobilizes the radionuclides and prevents them from leaching into the environment, addressing concerns about long-term storage and safety.

Vitrification is particularly advantageous because it forms a durable, corrosion-resistant product that can withstand a variety of environmental conditions. This makes it a suitable option for the long-term storage of high-level nuclear waste, as it minimizes potential hazards to human health and the environment. By encapsulating the waste in this manner, the risks associated with its handling and storage are significantly reduced.

Other methods mentioned in the question, such as ion exchange, evaporative treatment, and spherical reactor design, do not involve the encapsulation of high-level wastes in glass. Ion exchange typically refers to the removal of specific contaminants from solutions, evaporative treatment generally pertains to the concentration of liquid waste through evaporation, and spherical reactor design involves reactor geometry rather than waste processing. Therefore, solid waste processing through