Nuclear Wastes: Technologies for Separations and Transmutation
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| nas_transmutation.pdf (196.32 KB) | 196.32 KB |
Disposal of radioactive waste from nuclear weapons production and power generation has
caused public outcry and political consternation. Nuclear Wastes presents a critical review
of some waste management and disposal alternatives to the current national policy of
direct disposal of light water reactor spent fuel. The book offers clearcut conclusions for
what the nation should do today and what solutions should be explored for tomorrow.
The committee examines the currently used "once-through" fuel cycle versus different
alternatives of separations and transmutation technology systems, by which hazardous
radionuclides are converted to nuclides that are either stable or radioactive with short
half-lives. The volume provides detailed findings and conclusions about the status and
feasibility of plutonium extraction and more advanced separations technologies, as well as
three principal transmutation concepts for commercial reactor spent fuel.
The book discusses nuclear proliferation; the U.S. nuclear regulatory structure; issues of health,
safety and transportation; the proposed sale of electrical energy as a means of paying for
the transmutation system; and other key issues.
