Obsidian-Like Rock

This black rock is similar to volcanic glass, i.e., obsidian.

It was produced when Oak Ridge National Laboratory was experimenting with in situ vitrification (ISV), a remediation technology used to treat contaminated soil and waste by converting it into a stable, glass-like material through the application of intense heat. This particular piece was produced during a test run. The soil was not contaminated.

Typically, four electrodes would be pushed into the ground and a high voltage applied. The soil would heat to more than 2000°F or so and melt. When it cooled, the soil turned into a black glass-like material like you see. Any contaminants, e.g., plutonium, that had been in the soil would now be fixed and unable to leach out. Once the radioactive contaminants are immobilized in vitrified soil, they cannot become airborne, leach into groundwater or be absorbed by crops. The only exposure pathway is to any emitted gamma rays.

As a bonus, ISV also destroys certain organic and inorganic chemical contaminants.

Unfortunately, the soil conditions in Oak Ridge are not ideal, and this method for treating contaminated soil was never implemented.

Reference: https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc696389/m2/1/high_res_d/564051.pdf

Donated by: Oak Ridge National Laboratory