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Treatment of Irradiated Graphite to Meet Acceptance Criteria for Waste Disposal: Problem and Solutions

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 June 2014

Michael I. Ojovan
Affiliation:
Waste Technology Section, Division of Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Waste Technology, Department of Nuclear Energy, International Atomic Energy Agency, PO Box 100, Wagramerstraße 5, Vienna, A-1400 Austria
Anthony J. Wickham
Affiliation:
Nuclear Technology Consultancy, PO Box 50, Builth Wells, LD2 3XA, UK, and School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
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Abstract

An overview is given of an International Atomic Energy Agency Coordinated Research Project (CRP) on the treatment of irradiated graphite (i-graphite) to meet acceptance criteria for waste disposal. Graphite is a unique radioactive waste stream, with some quarter-million metric tons worldwide eventually needing to be disposed of. The CRP has involved 24 organizations from 10 Member States. Innovative and conventional methods for i-graphite characterization, retrieval, treatment and conditioning technologies have been explored in the course of this work, and offer a range of options for competent authorities in individual Member States to deploy according to local requirements and regulatory conditions.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2014 

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