NUKEM Decommissioning Option Studies

Decommissioning Option Studies

NUKEM has carried out many option studies for a range of clients in the UK nuclear industry. Such studies are a cost effective method for determining the way forward in what can be costly decommissioning projects. Our experience of implementation techniques, knowledge of waste routes and familiarity with legislation and procedures enables us to quickly assimilate the requirements of a project and to effectively identify and develop the most appropriate options. Dounreay Site

We have applied our skills in areas such as:

Fuel Pond decommissioning
Ion exchange plant operations
Waste pits remediation
Radwaste volume reduction
ISO container grouting plant
Radioactive waste management
JET decommissioning.
PFR end state option study.
Hot cell decommissioning.
Decommissioning an ILW store.

Recent examples of our work include:

Level 2 Decommissioning Study at Dounreay
Building D1251 at Dounreay contains a heavily shielded cave used for the examination of irradiated fuel and reactor components, a fuel pond and a store containing remotely handled intermediate level waste. The purpose of the study was to consider options for the decommissioning of the complete facility in accordance with the Dounreay Level 2 Study specification. Lead and fall-back options were identified and detailed programmes, cost estimates and methodologies were developed in line with the specification.

Harwell Decommissioning Surveys & Studies
Phase 1 was a waste inventory survey of the facilities. It involved a detailed investigation of the laboratories to determine the category, type and quantity of waste present. This inevitably included a detailed examination of the previous use of each laboratory and facility.

Phase 2 As a consequence of the first phase NUKEM was awarded a second contract to undertake a Level 2 Decommissioning Study. This covered seven major facilities within B220 including glovebox suites and hot cells. The Level two study provides detailed information on cost and programme. It also, through optioneering exercises, provides what is believed to be the most appropriate methodology for carrying out the decommissioning works.