Disposal options for high level nuclear waste

Abstract

The options for the management/disposal of high level nuclear waste are discussed; it is concluded that irretrievable disposal of solidified waste is a likely end step in all disposal schemes. Disposal will probably be either in mined repositories or in deep drill holes. Two solidified waste forms - borosilicate glass and SYNROC - are considered in some detail. It is concluded that SYNROC would provide a higher level of assurance of radionuclide retention in both disposal concepts. Deep drill-hole disposal using SYNROC is an attractive concept which should be given increased attention.