Feasibility study of synthesizing graphene quantum dots from the spent resin in a nuclear power plant to reduce disposal cost

Abstract

The feasibility of synthesizing graphene quantum dots from spent resin in a nuclear power plant that was subject to decommissioning was experimentally analyzed, and the resulting reduction in disposal cost was estimated. Owing to radiation safety and regulatory issues, graphene quantum dots were synthesized using an uncontaminated ion-exchange resin, IRN150 H/OH, prior to its use in a nuclear power plant. The synthesis of graphene quantum dots was attempted, and the characteristics were analyzed using atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The characterization of synthesized graphene quantum dots showed it was possible to recycle the spent resin into graphene quantum dots. Considering the amount of spent resin at the Wolsong Nuclear Power Plant, it is estimated that 3932 drums of ILW reduce to 1636 drums of LLW and 786 drums of EW, and the disposal cost reduces by 42 310 612 USD, indicating the reduction of 79%.