Studsvik Processing Facility - A proven solution for the conservation of a National Asset
- Studsvik, Inc., Erwin, TN (United States)
Studsvik has completed over 7.5 years of operation at its Erwin, TN facility. During this time period Studsvik processed over 13.3 million pounds (4.96 million kg) of radioactive ion exchange bead resin, powdered filter media, granular activated carbon (GAC), and filter cartridges which comprised a cumulative total activity of 87,396 Curies (3.23E+09 MBq), with the highest radiation level for any incoming resin container being 400 R/hr (4.0 Sv/hr). The Studsvik Processing Facility (SPF-Erwin) has the capability to safely and efficiently receive and process a wide variety of solid and liquid Low Level Radioactive Waste (LLRW) streams including: Spent Filter Cartridges (Metal or Poly), Ion Exchange Resins (IER), powered filter media, GAC, organic solids, graphite, oils, solvents, and cleaning solutions. In 2005 Studsvik added advanced robotic technology to the SPF greatly increasing its capabilities to safely handle waste streams with radiation levels in excess of 400 R/hr (4.0 Sv/h), saving personnel exposure and maximizing ALARA. The most recent addition to Studsvik's capabilities is the cost and volume efficient processing of filter cartridges (both metal and poly). The SPF-Erwin employs the Thermal Organic Reduction (THOR{sup sm}) process, developed and patented by Studsvik, which utilizes pyrolysis/steam reforming technology. THOR{sup sm} reliably and safely processes these wide varieties of LLRWs in a unique, moderate temperature, pyrolysis/steam reforming, fluidized bed treatment system. The THOR{sup sm} technology is also suitable for processing hazardous, mixed, and dry active LLRW with appropriate licensing and waste feed modifications. Studsvik has proven to be an experienced and reliable source for the cost efficient disposition of LLRW for the nuclear industry. These processing concepts and capabilities have helped generators maximize the utilization of the limited available burial space - extending the Class-A, Class-B, and Class-C burial capabilities. This paper will provide an overview of this proven approach for both organic and inorganic LLRWs. A perfect example of the processors and generators working together to conserve a National Asset we have all come to know as the LLRW burial sites. (authors)
- Research Organization:
- WM Symposia, 1628 E. Southern Avenue, Suite 9 - 332, Tempe, AZ 85282 (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 21290870
- Report Number(s):
- INIS-US-09-WM-07282; TRN: US10V0196038281
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: WM'07: 2007 Waste Management Symposium - Global Accomplishments in Environmental and Radioactive Waste Management: Education and Opportunity for the Next Generation of Waste Management Professionals, Tucson, AZ (United States), 25 Feb - 1 Mar 2007; Other Information: Country of input: France; 2 refs
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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