Radioactive Waste Disposal and Protection of the Future Public

2015 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 86-95
Author(s):  
John Tauxe
Keyword(s):  
Radioactive Waste ◽  
Waste Management ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Radioactive Wastes ◽  
Radioactive Waste Disposal ◽  
Radioactive Waste Management ◽  
Natural Processes ◽  
Social Actions ◽  
The Future ◽  
Waste Management Practices

Much of humanity's solid waste will outlast the human race, and the waste generated by one generation must be endured and managed by future societies. Radioactive wastes are unique in that their regulation explicitly considers the protection of future generations. But radioactive waste management faces a serious quandary: how to balance the substantial expense of waste isolation against the uncertain mitigation of risks to hypothetical future humans. Most of this uncertainty stems not from natural processes, or from the projected performance of engineered materials, but rather from social actions and human behaviors. Given that these uncertainties become overwhelming when consider the future only a few centuries from now, how far into the future is it useful for us to attempt to assess risks? Government regulators are currently grappling with this question as they rewrite regulations in order to accommodate radioactive wastes that have the potential for unacceptable and perpetual human health risks. This paper discusses the issues surrounding the period of performance expected from radioactive waste management practices, and outlines central conditions for soundly addressing controversial problems.

The Overview of Radioactive Waste Management Technology

2013 ◽  
Vol 448-453 ◽  
pp. 199-203
Author(s):  
Guo Hua Qiu
Keyword(s):  
Radioactive Waste ◽  
Waste Management ◽  
Waste Disposal ◽  
Reference Value ◽  
International Standards ◽  
Radioactive Waste Disposal ◽  
Radioactive Waste Management ◽  
Management Technology ◽  
Waste Classification

The Radioactive waste management technology is briefly introduced in this article based on related standards, guidelines and documents from IAEA. The radioactive waste management technology (RWM) includes related international standards and conventions, predisposal radioactive waste management, RWM for radioactive waste disposal, RWM for remediation, NORM and mining/milling waste. These management methods and valuable experience have important reference value to waste classification, waste disposal and management and related work in China.

Optimization Features in Management of Salaspils Research Reactor Decommissioning Waste

2003 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Dreimanis
Keyword(s):  
Radioactive Waste ◽  
Waste Management ◽  
Research Reactor ◽  
Optimal Solution ◽  
Environmental Safety ◽  
Radioactive Waste Disposal ◽  
Disposal Site ◽  
Radioactive Waste Management ◽  
Safety Control ◽  
Simplified Approach

Management of decommissioning waste is considered as complex task of seeking for optimal solution in the environment of various competing technical, safety and socio-economical factors. If from the formal mathematics viewpoint it is a multi-parameter optimization task, then for real conditions simplified approach for such problem should be applied. We propose to decompose this task into the set of optimization analysis for particular steps, and then in each step it is easier to find optimum. For the real case of management of radioactive waste arising from dismantling and decommissioning of Salaspils Research Reactor (SRR) we consider following main optimization steps: 1) the choice of the decommissioning concept — among three elaborated versions — with estimation of the foreseen radioactive waste amount for disposal, recycling and free release, taking into account also potential exposures and financial resources; 2) establishment of national radioactive waste management agency “RAPA” Ltd., ensuring common administration and maintenance of the shutdown SRR and radioactive waste (RW) disposal site — RAPA manages some decommissioning activities of SRR and shall actively participate together with envisaged decommissioning operator in this process also in future, but in all stages will keep full responsibility of waste management; 3) optimization of radioactive waste transportation: i) organizational aspects (packing, transportation time, schedule, route, etc.), ii) environmental safety control; 4) optimization arrangement of space for radioactive waste disposal: i) choice of the best strategy to ensure a new space, ii) optimization of the vault size — to be able accommodate decommissioning waste without being oversized; 5) strategy of treatment, conditioning and packing of solid decommissioning waste; 6) optimization of liquid decommissioning waste management — its conditioning together with the solid radioactive waste; 7) socio-economical optimization features: i) existing infrastructure for RW disposal, ii) financial compensation for local municipality, iii) international cooperation, technical and financial assistance by EU, IAEA, Sweden. The proposed optimization features used in the developing of Concept for radioactive waste management in Latvia for the period 2003–2010 (which corresponds to the approved decommissioning period of SRR) supplement existing separate optimization aspects of decommissioning waste management and could be considered as simplified integral set of factors for elaboration of optimal strategy for decommissioning waste management.

An overview of research activities on cementitious materials for radioactive waste management

2012 ◽  
Vol 1475 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zoran Drace ◽  
Irena Mele ◽  
Michael I. Ojovan ◽  
R. O. Abdel Rahman
Keyword(s):  
Radioactive Waste ◽  
Waste Management ◽  
Nuclear Power ◽  
Power Plants ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Fuel Cycle ◽  
Large Body ◽  
Cementitious Materials ◽  
Radioactive Waste Management ◽  
Research Activities

ABSTRACTAn overview is given on research activities on cementitious materials for radioactive waste management systems based on the IAEA Coordinated Research Project (CRP) held in 2007-2010. It has been joined by 26 research organizations from 22 countries which shared their research and practical activities on use of cementitious materials for various barrier purposes. The CRP has initially formulated the research topics considered within four specific streams: A) Conventional cementitious systems; B) Novel cementitious materials and technologies; C) Testing and waste acceptance criteria; and D) Modelling long term behaviour.The CRP has analysed both barrier functions and interactions envisaged between various components with focus on predisposal stage of waste management. Cementation processes have achieved a high degree of acceptance and many processes are now regarded as technically mature. A large body of information is currently available on proven waste conditioning technologies although novel approaches are continuing to be devised.Most of the existing technologies have been developed for conditioning of large amounts of operational radioactive waste from nuclear power plants and other nuclear fuel cycle facilities. However new waste streams including those resulting from legacy and decommissioning activities required improved material performance and technologies.The most important outcome of CRP was the exchange of information and research co-operation between different institutions and has contributed towards general enhancement of safety by improving waste management practices and their efficiency. The paper presents the most important results and trends revealed by CRP participants. The research contributions of participating organizations will be published as country contributions in a forthcoming IAEA technical publication.

Advancing the Use of IAEA Networks in Radioactive Waste Management: Past Successes, Present Challenges and Future Opportunities

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
P. Degnan ◽  
I. Mele ◽  
P. Dinner ◽  
H. Monken-Fernandes ◽  
A. Morales Leon ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Radioactive Waste ◽  
Waste Management ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Fuel Cycle ◽  
Support Network ◽  
Radioactive Waste Management ◽  
Member States ◽  
Near Surface ◽  
Novel Technologies ◽  
Stage Of Development

Since 2001 the International Atomic Energy Agency has championed the concept and use of Networks to advance radioactive waste management across the globe. At the present time there are four Networks managed on behalf of Member States by the IAEA and a fifth one is currently being implemented. The scopes of interest covered by the Networks encompass near-surface and deep geological disposal, the decommissioning of nuclear facilities, the environmental remediation of sites contaminated with radioactive materials and the characterisation of low- and intermediate-level radioactive wastes. To date over 100 organisations from more than 40 Member States are involved in the Networks. Many of these Network participants generously donate resources, time and effort to support Network activities, while others with nascent or otherwise less well developed programmes are still in the process of acquiring experience, capabilities and know-how. Regardless of the stage of development, all Network participants share in the mutual benefits that arise from improved communications with sister organisations and the sharing of experience and knowledge. The universal Goal of the Networks is the promotion of methods and technologies that will enhance the safety and sustainability of radioactive waste management practices and facilities. This Goal is being achieved through continuous improvements in communication and knowledge sharing between Network participants and the provision of enhanced opportunities for training, involvement in demonstration projects and the development of novel technologies and methodologies. We recognise that interdisciplinary understanding and the coordination of efforts at key interfaces at the back-end of the fuel cycle are critical aspects for achieving the Network Goal efficiently and effectively. Consequently, the IAEA Networks that will be operational by the end of 2010 are themselves are being molded into an organic “Network of Networks” where the use of new electronic media and the possibilities presented by enhanced communication channels will be exploited. Here we provide an overview of the IAEA Networks in radioactive waste management and present a new tool that is under development, an internet-based portal for enhanced communications and the provision of improved training opportunities.

Development of Joint Regulatory Guidance on the Management of Higher Activity Radioactive Wastes on Nuclear Licensed Sites

2009 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mick Bacon ◽  
Doug Ilett ◽  
Andy Whittall
Keyword(s):  
Radioactive Waste ◽  
Waste Management ◽  
Health And Safety ◽  
Radioactive Wastes ◽  
Dissemination And Implementation ◽  
Radioactive Waste Management ◽  
Near Surface ◽  
Better Regulation ◽  
Interim Storage

In 2006 the UK Governments response to recommendations by its Committee on Radioactive Waste Management (CoRWM) established, in England and Wales, that geological disposal, supported by safe and secure interim storage, is the preferred route for the long-term management of higher-activity radioactive waste (i.e. that which is not suitable for near-surface disposal). It also gave the responsibility for delivering the programme for a deep geological repository to the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA). The Scottish Government has a policy of long term, near site, near surface safe and secure interim storage. To support the open and transparent approach promised by Government, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the Environment Agency and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) are developing joint guidance on the management of higher-activity radioactive waste to explain regulatory objectives in securing safe and secure interim storage and the associated management of radioactive wastes. The guidance comes in two parts: • Guidance on the regulatory process; • Technical guidance modules. The guidance promotes a cradle to grave approach to radioactive waste management and by aligning the regulatory interests of environmental and safety regulators it delivers one of the Government’s “Better Regulation” objectives. This paper describes the process by which the joint guidance was produced with particular emphasis on stakeholder engagement. It describes the key features of the guidance, including the concept of the radioactive waste management case (RWMC). Finally the problems encountered with dissemination and implementation are discussed together with measures taken by the regulators to improve these aspects.

Practical Implementation of National Clearance Levels at Dounreay

2003 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul McClelland ◽  
Frank Dennis ◽  
Mark Liddiard
Keyword(s):  
Public Relations ◽  
Radioactive Waste ◽  
Waste Management ◽  
Radioactive Wastes ◽  
Nuclear Industry ◽  
Radioactive Waste Disposal ◽  
Radioactive Material ◽  
Practical Implementation ◽  
Nuclear Site ◽  
Regulatory Controls

Clearance is a very important part of any effective waste management strategy for both operating and decommissioning nuclear facilities. Radioactive waste disposal capacity is becoming an increasingly valuable resource and costs for disposal of radioactive wastes continue to dramatically rise. Considerable cost savings may be realised by efficient segregation of essentially non-radioactive material from radioactive wastes. The release of these materials from licensed nuclear sites for disposal, reuse or recycle without further regulatory controls is commonly referred to by the nuclear industry as “clearance”. Although much effort has been directed at establishing national clearance levels, below which, materials may be released without further regulatory controls, there is little practical guidance regarding implementation into local waste management programmes. Compliance with regulatory clearance limits is a relatively straightforward technical exercise involving appropriate management control and monitoring of the material. Whilst this is sufficient to avoid prosecution for breach of regulatory requirements, it is not sufficient to avoid a myriad of political and public relations land mines. When material is unconditionally released, unless additional attention is given to management of its future destination off-site, it may end up anywhere. The worst nightmare for a waste manager at a nuclear site is headlines in local and national newspapers such as, “RADIOACTIVE WASTE DISPOSED IN LOCAL MUNICIPAL LANDFILL,” or, “RADIOACTIVE WASTE USED AS CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL FOR CHILDRENS PLAYGROUND,” etc. Even if the material were released legally, the cost of recovering from such a situation is potentially very large, and such public relations disasters could threaten to end the clearance programme at the given site, if not nationally. This paper describes how national regulatory clearance levels have been implemented for the decommissioning of the Dounreay nuclear site in the far north of Scotland. It specifically focuses on the management of public relations aspects of clearance in order to limit the exposure to non-regulatory pressures and liabilities associated with clearance programmes from nuclear sites. The issues are put into context for uncontaminated wastes, trace contaminated wastes and management of contaminated land.

Creation of system of final isolation (disposal) of radioactive waste in the Russian Federation

MRS Advances ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (5-6) ◽  
pp. 275-282 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vsevolod Igin ◽  
Victor Krasilnikov
Keyword(s):  
Radioactive Waste ◽  
Waste Management ◽  
Waste Disposal ◽  
Russian Federation ◽  
Radioactive Waste Disposal ◽  
High Level Waste ◽  
Federal State ◽  
Radioactive Waste Management ◽  
Near Surface ◽  
High Level

Abstract:The paper provides generic overview of legal and regulatory framework of radioactive waste management activities held in Russian Federation and national operator responsibilities and accomplishments. It gives a short description of waste classification scheme used and plans for radioactive waste disposal. In particular the paper provides information on the plans of the FEDERAL STATE UNITARY ENTERPRISE "National operator for radioactive waste management" to construct and operate several near-surface disposal facilities for low and intermediate level waste with total capacity up to 550 000 cubic meter. The paper also provides detailed information on the steps of high-level waste disposal program including site-selection, construction phase of the underground research laboratory (URL) near the city of Zheleznogorsk, Krasnoyarsk Region and research program after the construction of the URL. The paper also describes Russian system and state policy in the field of RW management and gives recommendations for future implementers.

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