Integrated optimization approach for plasma-based radioactive waste treatment process

This research presents an integrated optimization framework for inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torch for low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste treatment purposes. Traditional segregated optimization approaches fail to capture the complex multiphysical interactions between fluid flow, plasma behavior, and waste processing. The proposed framework couples computational fluid dynamics (ANSYS), plasma simulations (COMSOL Multiphysics), and process modeling (Aspen Plus) into a unified workflow, enabling automated data exchange and coordinated parameter updates. Optimization is performed using genetic algorithm, with candidate solutions evaluated across all domains. Comparative analysis of segregated and integrated optimization approaches demonstrated the advantages of the proposed method in achieving superior performance and efficiency. The integrated optimization framework demonstrated clear improvements over the segregated approach. Specifically, plasma efficiency increased by 9%, energy yield (LHV) by 5%, and overall fitness by 24%, indicating enhanced overall system performance.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Applied Science (MASc)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Grantor

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Stetsiuk, Roman

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Gaber, Hossam

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10155/2060

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:ontariotechu.scholaris.ca:10155/2060