Some studies related to decommissioning of nuclear reactors
Activity Acronym:
KAV-350
Authors:
Curt Bergman, Shankar Menon
Abstract:
Decommissioning of large nuclear reactors has not yet taken place in the Nordic countries.
Small nuclear installations, however, have been dismantled. This NKA-programme has dealt
with some interesting and important factors which have to be analysed before a large scale
decommissioning programme starts.
Prior to decommissioning, knowledge is required regarding the radionuclide inventory in
various parts of the reactor. Measurements were performed in regions close to the reactor
tank and the biological shield. These experimental data are used to verify theoretical calculations.
All radioactive waste generated during decommissioning will have to be transported to a
repository. Studies show that in all the Nordic countries there are adequate transport systems
with which decommissioning waste can be transported.
Another requirement for orderly decommissioning planning is that sufficient information
about the plant and its operation history must be available. It appears that if properly handled
and sorted, all such information can be extracted from existing documentation.