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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Analysis of disposition alternatives for radioactively contaminated scrap metal

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/446055· OSTI ID:446055
Millions of tonnes of slightly radioactive, scrap iron and steel, stainless steel, and copper are likely to become available as nuclear and other facilities and equipment are withdrawn from service. Disposition of this material is an international policy issue under consideration currently. The major alternatives for managing this material are to either develop a regulatory process for decontamination and recycling that will safeguard human health or to dispose of the scrap and replace the metal stocks. To evaluate the alternatives, we estimate quantities of scrap arising from nuclear power plant decommissioning, evaluate potential price impacts of recycling on regional markets, and assess the health and environmental impacts of the management alternatives. We conclude that decontaminating and recycling the scrap is the superior alternative.
Research Organization:
Argonne National Lab., IL (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Environmental Restoration and Waste Management, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
W-31109-ENG-38
OSTI ID:
446055
Report Number(s):
ANL/DIS/PP--90117; ON: DE97002663
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English