Effects of α-radiation on a direct disposal system for spent nuclear fuel – (1) review of research into the effects of α-radiation on the spent nuclear fuel, canisters and outside canisters

Abstract

The Japanese geological disposal programme has started researching disposal of spent nuclear fuel (SF) in deep geological strata (hereafter “direct disposal of SF”) as an alternative management option other reprocessing followed by vitrification and geological disposal of high-level radioactive waste. In the case of direct disposal of SF, the radioactivity of the waste is higher and the potential effects of the radiation are greater. Specific examples of the possible effects of radiation include increased amounts of canister corrosion; generation of oxidizing chemical species in conjunction with decomposition of groundwater and accompanying oxidation of reducing groundwater; and increase in the dissolution rate of SF and the solubility of radionuclides. Focusing especially on the effects of α-radiation in safety assessment, this study has reviewed research into the effects of α-radiation on the SF, canisters and environment outside the canisters.