5 Questions
What are the different classifications of radioactive waste?
The different classifications of radioactive waste are low-level waste (LLW), intermediate-level waste (ILW), and high-level waste (HLW).
What activities can generate radioactive waste?
Activities such as nuclear medicine, nuclear research, nuclear power generation, nuclear decommissioning, rare-earth mining, and nuclear weapons reprocessing can generate radioactive waste.
How is radioactive waste regulated?
Radioactive waste is regulated by government agencies in order to protect human health and the environment.
What is the percentage of spent nuclear fuel that is recycled in nuclear reprocessing plants?
In nuclear reprocessing plants, about 96% of spent nuclear fuel is recycled back into uranium-based and mixed-oxide (MOX) fuels.
What are the characteristics of high-level waste (HLW)?
High-level waste (HLW) is highly radioactive and hot due to decay heat, so it requires cooling and shielding.
Study Notes
Classifications of Radioactive Waste
- Radioactive waste is classified into three main categories: low-level waste (LLW), intermediate-level waste (ILW), and high-level waste (HLW)
- LLW includes radioactive materials with low radioactivity, such as contaminated clothing and tools
- ILW includes resins, filters, and metal wastes from nuclear reactors
- HLW includes spent nuclear fuel and other highly radioactive materials
Generation of Radioactive Waste
- Radioactive waste can be generated from various activities, including:
- Nuclear power plants
- Nuclear research and development
- Medical and industrial applications
- Uranium mining and milling
Regulation of Radioactive Waste
- Radioactive waste is regulated by national and international authorities to ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal
- Regulations vary by country, but generally include guidelines for waste classification, packaging, and disposal
Nuclear Reprocessing
- Spent nuclear fuel can be recycled in nuclear reprocessing plants to recover usable materials
- Approximately 95% of spent nuclear fuel is recycled in nuclear reprocessing plants
Characteristics of High-Level Waste (HLW)
- HLW is characterized by high radioactivity and heat generation
- HLW requires specialized storage and disposal facilities to prevent environmental contamination and radiation exposure
- HLW includes spent nuclear fuel, which is typically stored in pools or dry casks before permanent disposal
Test your knowledge on radioactive waste and its storage and disposal regulations. Explore the various sources of radioactive waste and learn about the importance of government regulations in protecting human health.
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