Preparation of High Heat Generating Waste for Disposal

Unlike Low Heat Generating Waste (LHGW), the detailed designs of waste disposal containers for HHGW are yet to be finalised by Nuclear Waste Services (NWS). While some LHGW is now being packaged into containers ready for disposal, HHGW will not be placed in final disposal containers for several decades. To enable waste producers to effectively manage HHGW in the period before disposal containers are available, NWS has developed the Specification for HHGW Precursor Product to define the requirements for a defined selection of wastes to ensure that they will be suitable for packaging into future disposal containers. These requirements are based on NWS’ assumed use of the illustrative disposal system concepts and the Generic Disposal System Specification Part B.

Precursor products are waste, spent fuel (SF) or nuclear material that has been appropriately managed for eventual packaging into a disposal container. This may involve drying, conditioning and/or loading into cans before final packaging, transport and disposal. It also includes managing suitable storage conditions for long term durability, waste package monitoring, and keeping accurate records of the nature, inventory and the formation of the waste.

The Advanced Gas cooled Reactor (AGR) spent fuel pin slotted can (left image) and the Waste Vitrification Plant can (right image) are examples of precursor products.

Disposability Assessment aids waste producers to develop their plans for packaging waste to ensure it will be suitable for safe transport and disposal in a Geological Disposal Facility. Waste producers should engage with NWS through the disposability assessment process on the management of precursor products.

See next: High Heat Generating Waste Disposal Container Concepts

See previous: Introduction to High Heat Generating Waste