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THE ROLE OF WASTE MANAGEMENT IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE NUCLEAR ENERGY INDUSTRY

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:4307171
Distinction is made between the various categories of radioactive wastes evolving from different segments of the nuclear energy industry. Capabilities and operating experience of treatment and disposal systems presently in use for low-level wastes from laboratories and reactors are described. Emphasis is given to the highly radioactive liquid wastes resulting from the chemical reprocesing of irradiated nuclear fuels. Present handling and treatment methods for this category of wastes are discussed. Development activities directed toward ultimate disposal systems for high-level wastes are noted. Distinction is made between treatment and disposal systems which have been engineered to prototype scale and those systems which are in the development stage. Based on present knowledge, judgments on the evolution of ultimate disposal systems are given. Basic criteria pertinent to ultimate disposal of highly radioactive wastes including the environmental aspects are delineated. (auth)
Research Organization:
Division of Reactor Development , AEC
NSA Number:
NSA-12-014749
OSTI ID:
4307171
Report Number(s):
A/CONF.15/P/2004
Country of Publication:
Country unknown/Code not available
Language:
English