Packaging and Disposal of a Radium-beryllium Source using Depleted Uranium Polyethylene Composite Shielding

Rule, Keith ; Kalb, Paul ; Kwaschyn, Pete

Princeton University. Plasma Physics Laboratory.

关键词: Radiation, Regulations And Standards;    Radiation Protection;    Radioactive Wastes;    70 Plasma Physics And Fusion Technology;    Oxides;   

DOI  :  10.2172/811967
RP-ID  :  PPPL-3782
RP-ID  :  AC02-76CH03073
RP-ID  :  811967

美国|英语

来源: UNT Digital Library

【 摘 要 】

Two, 111-GBq (3 Curie) radium-beryllium (RaBe) sources were in underground storage at the Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) since 1988. These sources originated from the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) where they were used to calibrate neutron detection diagnostics. In 1999, PPPL and BNL began a collaborative effort to expand the use of an innovative pilot-scale technology and bring it to full-scale deployment to shield these sources for eventual transport and burial at the Hanford Burial site. The transport/disposal container was constructed of depleted uranium oxide encapsulated in polyethylene to provide suitable shielding for both gamma and neutron radiation. This new material can be produced from recycled waste products (depleted uranium and polyethylene), is inexpensive, and can be disposed with the waste, unlike conventional lead containers, thus reducing exposure time for workers. This paper will provide calculations and information that led to the initial design of the shielding. We will also describe the production-scale processing of the container, cost, schedule, logistics, and many unforeseen challenges that eventually resulted in the successful fabrication and deployment of this shield. We will conclude with a description of the final configuration of the shielding container and shipping package along with recommendations for future shielding designs.