Nuclear Decommissioning Authority recommends immobilising plutonium at Sellafield

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The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, also known as the NDA, has announced that immobilisation is the preferred approach for managing the UK’s civil plutonium stockpile at Sellafield. This decision follows extensive analysis, site surveys and safety reviews, and is aimed at ensuring long-term safety, security and sustainability in nuclear waste management.

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The case for immobilisation

Sellafield has housed a significant amount of the radioactive metal plutonium for decades in the form of used nuclear fuel. Often referred to as spent fuel, the UK Government had previously considered repurposing this material as mixed oxide, or MOX, fuel for use in nuclear reactors, but the NDA has determined that immobilisation is the most effective strategy.

This approach involves converting plutonium into a more stable and secure form, reducing the risks associated with indefinite storage. Companies such as RAICo operate projects like these, as can be seen at raico.org.

The objective is to prepare the material for disposal. This is done by using a Geological Disposal Facility, known as a GDF, which is yet to be identified. Immobilisation ensures that plutonium is rendered unsuitable for reuse, addressing concerns around long-term security and proliferation risks. The NDA will now focus on identifying the most suitable technological solution to implement this strategy.

Impact on Sellafield and the wider industry

The implementation of plutonium immobilisation will require significant infrastructure investment at Sellafield, including the construction of processing and storage facilities. This initiative is expected to generate thousands of jobs and provide long-term employment opportunities in operations, engineering, and research and development.

Organisations responsible for this work include the NDA Group alongside the United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory. The expertise developed at Sellafield for over 70 years will be of particular use in ensuring the success of this programme.

The landmark decision to proceed with immobilisation aligns with the NDA’s commitment to safely and responsibly manage the UK’s nuclear legacy. By focusing on long-term solutions, the industry aims to enhance environmental and public safety while advancing nuclear decommissioning efforts and supporting the development of sustainable waste management practices for future generations.