Reduction of capital costs in reprocessing power reactor fuels: a design study

Abstract

The design and cost structures of conventional types of commercial reprocessing plant have been reviewed. Process functions offering the greater potential saving in capital cost have been identified. Unorthodox approaches to philosophies of plant layout, maintenance procedures, and radiation shielding have been formulated with the primary aim of reducing capital cost. Four conceptual designs have been made of a large scale reprocessing plant based on existing shear leach-solvent extraction technology, incorporating novel equipment types and unorthodox design philosophy. Preliminary capital cost estimates for the designs are in the range $37-41 x 10 6, indicating a 30-37% reduction in comparison with a conventional plant of identical capacity and scope. Additional costs exceeding $30 x 10 6 could be incurred for refinement to effluent treatment and storage systems envisaged for environmental protection for any type of reprocessing plant.