Chapter 16 - Radioactive Waste

Abstract

This chapter presents a background discussion of the interaction of ionizing radiation with matter, as well as a discussion of the environmental effects of nuclear generation of electricity and of radionuclides that are accessible to humans in the environment. The chapter focuses on radioactive waste as an environmental pollutant, discusses the impact of ionizing radiation on environmental and public health, and summarizes engineering options available today for the management and disposal of radioactive waste. Biological effects of ionizing radiation may be grouped as somatic and genetic. Radiation sickness (circulatory system breakdown, nausea, hair loss, and sometimes death) is an acute somatic effect occurring after very high exposure, as from a nuclear bomb, intense radiation therapy, or a catastrophic nuclear accident. Other somatic effects include decrease in organ function and carcinogenesis. Chronic effects may include both somatic and genetic effects that may occur because ionizing radiation damages the genetic material of the cell. Radioactive wastes may contaminate air, water, soil, and vegetation. Radionuclides released and transported through the air enter the human body by the atmospheric dispersion and inhalation pathway. Radionuclides also move from deposition or contamination of ground surfaces into the human food chain. Most radioactive waste can be treated only by isolating it from the accessible environment until its radioactivity no longer poses a threat. A two-stage barrier system is used for the geologic disposal of high-level radioactive waste. Management and disposal of low-level radioactive waste include impervious packaging, compaction, incineration, and stabilization in asphalt or cement matrix.