Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of welded stainless steel dry storage canisters may potentially impact systems exposed to corrosive atmospheric elements, such as those occurring near salt water bodies. Conditions important for atmospheric-related SCC include concentration and chemical species of the contaminants, temperature, and humidity. Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant conducted this historically important first inspection of spent fuel canisters to collect data for an SCC evaluation as part of the EPRI-led Extended Storage Collaboration Program (ESCP).

Due to the delayed opening of a final geological repository for spent nuclear fuel, the lifespan of dry cask storage systems may be increased to 120 years or longer. To ensure safety over this extended period of interim storage, degradation mechanisms that have the potential to cause penetration of the canister confinement boundary must be evaluated and understood.

Use of an on-site dry transfer system (DTS) allows utilities with limited crane capacities or other plant restrictions to take advantage of large efficient storage systems. By using this system, utilities can also transfer fuel from loaded storage casks to transport casks without returning to their fuel storage pool.

The main question before the Transportation and Storage Subcommittee was whether the United States should change its approach to storing and transporting spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and high-level radioactive waste (HLW) while one or more disposal facilities are established.

This study provides a technical basis for informing policy decisions regarding strategies for the management and permanent disposal of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and high-level radioactive waste (HLW) in the United States requiring geologic isolation. Relevant policy questions this study can help inform include the following: Is a “one-size-fits–all” repository a good strategic option for disposal? Do

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The IAEA has published guidance on particular elements of radioactive waste and spent fuel management,
such as establishing nuclear technical and regulatory infrastructure, relevant financing schemes, national policy
and strategies, multinational approaches and other aspects linked to building nuclear power plants. The present
publication is intended to provide a concise summary of key issues related to the development of a sound radioactive
waste and spent nuclear fuel management system. It is designed to brief countries with small or newly established

The Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 (NWPA), as amended, assigned the Department of
Energy (DOE) responsibility for developing and managing a Federal system for the disposal of
spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and high-level radioactive waste (HLW). The Office of Civilian
Radioactive Waste Management (OCRWM) is responsible for accepting, transporting, and
disposing of SNF and HLW at the Yucca Mountain repository (if licensed) in a manner that
protects public health, safety, and the environment; enhances national and energy security; and