Chemical decontamination is generally most effective on metallic and non-porous surfaces. The choice of chemical agents depends on the chemical nature of the contamination, the extent of contamination, the type of surface and the volume of likely secondary waste arisings.
| Chemical Agent | Application | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nitric acid | Stainless steel, Inconel | Strong mineral acid; effective on oxide layers |
| Sulphuric acid | Carbon steel, stainless steel | Dissolves surface contamination |
| Acid salts | General metal surfaces | Milder than pure acids |
| Organic acids (e.g. citric, oxalic) | Metal and plastic surfaces | Lower secondary waste production |
| Bases and alkaline salts | Carbon steel | Effective on specific contaminant types |
| Organic solvents | Metal, plastic, concrete | Dissolves organic contaminants |
| Complexing agents (e.g. EDTA) | Metals | Chelates metal ions for removal |
| Multiphase treatment (LOMI, MODIX) | Carbon steel, stainless steel, Inconel, Zircaloy | LOMI = Low Oxidation-state Metal Ion process; uses V(II) to reduce Cr(III) oxides; highly effective on reactor circuits |
| Foam decontamination | Porous and non-porous surfaces | Chemical foam applied to surfaces; reduced liquid waste volumes |
| Chemical gels | Porous and non-porous surfaces | Gel applied, contaminants absorbed, gel removed |