Processing, Storage and Disposal of Nuclear Wastes

Module Title - Processing, Storage and Disposal of Nuclear Wastes
Number of credits – 20

Module description

This module seeks to provide the theoretical and applied knowledge base that will underpin a student’s potential future professional activity in this field.

The module syllabus will include: waste forms and classification; waste processing and treatment; encapsulation methods and technologies; waste management and storage; geological disposal.

These topics will be illustrated by case studies throughout and student learning will be underpinned by problem-solving exercises based on these case studies.

By the end of the module you will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- types and sources of radioactive waste and associated hazards; classification of wastes; processing, storage and management of nuclear waste;
- environmental impacts of nuclear waste management; legislation and policy; site investigation methods
Perform waste inventory calculations;
Apply to specific projects/case studies knowledge and understanding of: hazard identification and reduction; relevant legislation and policy;
Apply knowledge and understanding waste processing, treatment and encapsulation technologies and waste management strategies to specific projects/case studies;
Understand the case for geological disposal of nuclear waste and the multi barrier approach to the construction of a post closure safety case;
Demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of the applicability of a variety of computational chemistry simulation codes to the modelling of nuclear fuels and waste encapsulation matrices;
Demonstrate critical thinking numeracy and ICT skills.