Comparison of Technologies for Metal Radioactive Waste Decontamination

Abstract

A review is made of the growth dynamics of metal radioactive waste on a world scale. The most commonly applied technologies (hydro- and pyrometallurgical) for deactivation of this waste are presented. The implementation of the blocks obtained by remelting for the manufacture of fasteners of nuclear reactors is demonstrated. Based on the conducted experiments and drawn conclusions, the inference is made that the pyrometallurgical methods of processing have greater advantages. The paper exhibits a convincing motivation for the essential necessity of investigation of the metal radioactive waste processing, following the system D&D (deconstruction + deactivation), using effective and environmentally friendly technology.

Keywords

• nuclear reactor
• radioactive waste
• decontamination technologies
• metallurgy under pressure