The multipurpose canister (MPC) concept can simplify the management of spent nuclear fuel by enclosing the fuel permanently in a canister that can be used for long-term dry storage at a utility site, transportation to an interim federal storage facility, and eventual disposal in a repository. This synopsis report summarizes the key design and analysis features of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) MPC program.

The multipurpose canister (MPC) program represented a major U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) initiative to simplify the management of spent nuclear fuel by enclosing it in a canister acceptable for storage, transport, and disposal. The program was one example of successful interaction between utilities and the DOE. This report documents the history and lessons learned from this substantial effort.