Technologies for the containment, immobilization, and disposal of radioactive wastes

Abstract

Atomic Energy of Canada Limited is developing methods for the management and safe disposal of radioactive wastes. These wastes range from the highly radioactive (high-level) UO2 fuel arising from the nuclear generation of electrical power to the low- and intermediate-level wastes arising from research in various Canadian institutions using radioactive isotopes. This paper reviews the current research programs on materials and processes for the immobilization and containment of UO2 fuel wastes and the technical aspects of programs demonstrating the various technologies needed for implementing a disposal program for low-level wastes. Key words: waste management, radioactive, nuclear fuel waste, high-level waste, low-level waste, disposal, immobilization, glass, containment, siting, land burial, geological disposal.