Nuclear Waste

Cards (8)

What is nuclear waste?
Radioactive material which stays radioactive for many years after its removal from the station and is very dangerous if not disposed of correctly
What are the three levels of nuclear waste disposal?
Low Level Waste
Intermediate Level Waste
High Level Waste
What are some examples of low level waste?
Protective Clothing
Equipment
Contaminated Material
How is low level waste disposed of?
Surrounding it in concrete in large disposal drums in landfill
What are some examples of intermediate level waste?
Radioactive sources from smaller medical settings
Components from nuclear reactions
How is intermediate level waste disposed of?
Mixing with concrete in large steel disposal drums which are then buried in purpose-built stores
What are some examples of high level waste?
Chemicals from nuclear reactors
Fuels
How is high level waste disposed of?
Stored in underwater pools for over 20 years. The waste is held in casks in the pool and air circulation has to be created to help remove any heat generated by the waste