Reactor Cavity Decontamination

Q. What cleaner does Alconox recommend for the decontamination of nuclear reactor cavities and related equipment?

A. Alconox Inc. recommends Detergent 8® Low-Foaming Ion-Free Detergent, a non-ionic, phosphate-free, homogeneous blend of an alkanolamine, glycol ethers and an alkoxylated fatty alcohol for decontaminating nuclear reactors and related equipment including pipes, tools, and protective equipment.

It contains no chelating agents or halides, or conductive metal cations. Further, Detergent 8 cleaner contains no ions such as phosphorous, leachable halides, low melting metals, or other ingredients that could cause problems for stainless steel in a nuclear environment.  It is imperative to avoid detergents containing chelating agents as they can bond chemically to radioisotopes. Also, it is important to avoid detergents containing fluorides, chlorides, or sulfur ingredients which might cause surface corrosion or intergranular stress corrosion or stainless components.

We have nuclear specific trace analysis certificates for the Detergent 8 cleaner.

If the key concern is avoiding waste interference, then Detergent 8 cleaner is also the brand to use. Detergent 8 is a low foaming cleaner, and therefore can be used manually, soaking, or high pressure spray applications (where foaming detergents are inadvisable).

To request this or any Alconox Inc. detergents for free, please complete the questionnaire at Get Sample. For more information about any one of our Alconox Inc. detergents, consult the technical bulletin for each product. Or click here to access each of our detergent’s Safety Data Sheets.

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