Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the recent years the use of nuclear energy has turned from a technical and scientific issue to a political one. The high-temperature reactor (HTR) however, has always been advertised as particularly safe. The present situation and future developments of HTR-technology were the two issues that VDI-News brought up on the 27th October on an HTR-conference in an interview with the 'spiritual father' of the HTR, Prof. Dr. Rudolf Schulten of the Juelich Nuclear Research Centre. (orig.).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the recent years the use of nuclear energy has turned from a technical and scientific issue to a political one. The high-temperature reactor (HTR) however, has always been advertised as particularly safe. The present situation and future developments of HTR-technology were the two issues that VDI-News brought up on the 27th October on an HTR-conference in an interview with the 'spiritual father' of the HTR, Prof. Dr. Rudolf Schulten of the Juelich Nuclear Research Centre.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Two of the US Department of Energy's (DOE) nuclear waste management-related goals are to ensure that waste management is not an obstacle to the further development of light-water reactors and the closure of the nuclear fuel cycle and to fulfill its institutional responsibility for providing safe storage and disposal of existing and future nuclear wastes. As part of its approach to achieving these goals, the Office of Remedial Action and Waste Technology of DOE established what is now called the Nuclear Waste Treatment Program (NWTP) at the Pacific Northwest Laboratory during the second half of FY 1982. To support DOE's attainment of its goals, the NWTP is to provide technology necessary for the design and operation of nuclear waste treatment facilities by commercial enterprises as part of a licensed waste management system ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the National Water Plan it is described which measures must be taken to keep the Netherlands safe and livable for future generations and to make use of the chances offered by water.

Science.gov (United States)

... NVIC 3-94, International Maritime Organization Code for the Safe Carriage of Irradiated Nuclear Fuel, Plutonium and High-Level Radioactive ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the future, the demand for energy is predicted to grow and more countries plan to utilize nuclear energy as their source of electric energy. This gives rise to many important issues connected to nuclear energy, such as finding methods that can verify that the spent nuclear fuel has been handled safely and used in ordinary power producing cycles as stated by the operators. Gamma ray spectroscopy is one method used for identification and verification of spent nuclear fuel. In the specific gamma ray spectroscopy method called gamma scanning the gamma radiation from the fission products Cs-137, Cs-134 and Eu-154 are measured in a spent fuel assembly. From the results, conclusions can be drawn about the fuels characteristics. This degree project examines the possibilities of using alternative measuring approaches when using the gamma scanning method. The focus is ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Based on the IAPWS technical guidance on ''Instrumentation for Monitoring and Control of Cycle Chemistry for Steam-Water Circuits of Fossil-Fired and Combined Cycle Power Plants,'' the latest situation regarding instrumentation for nuclear power plants is discussed. As a result of the discussion, it is concluded that: (1) Reliable and safe operation of plants is established by the application of suitable chemical conditions in plant cooling systems, which should be supported by the selection of suitable control targets for monitoring and by the application of reliable instruments. (2) The minimum level of key instrumentation consists of on-line as well as off-line instruments for monitoring the key parameters: - on-line: pH, conductivity, cation conductivity, O{sub 2} and H{sub 2} concentrations, electrochemical corrosion potential; - off-line: radioactive nuclides ({sup 60}Co, {sup 58}Co, {sup 131}I, etc.), ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper details the development of a decontamination approach for the West Valley Demonstration Project (WVDP), Decontamination Project Plan (Plan). The WVDP is operated by West Valley Nuclear Services Company (WVNSCO), a subsidiary of Westinghouse Government and Environmental Services, and its parent companies Washington Group International and British Nuclear Fuels Limited (BNFL). The WVDP is a waste management effort being conducted by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) at the site of the only commercial nuclear fuel reprocessing facility to have operated in the United States. This facility is part of the Western New York Nuclear Service Center (WNYNSC), which is owned by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). As authorized by Congress in 1980 through the West Valley Demonstration Project Act (WVDP Act, Public Law 96-368), the DOE's primary ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A novel scheme is proposed to drive a low-power subcritical fuel assembly by means of a long Cylindrical Radially-convergent Inertial Electrostatic Confinement (CRIEC) used as a neutron source. The concept is inherently safe in the sense that the fuel assembly remains subcritical at all times. Previous work has been done for the possible implementation of CRIEC as a subcritical assembly driver for power reactors. However, it has been found that the present technology and stage of development of IEC-based neutron sources can not meet the neutron flux requirements to drive a system as big as a power reactor. Nevertheless, smaller systems, such as research and training reactors, could be successfully driven with levels of neutron flux that seem more reasonable to be achieved in the near future by IEC devices. The need for custom-made expensive nuclear fission fuel, as in the case of the TRIGA reactors, is eliminated, and the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the future even more than in the past, nuclear power will be indispensable in the present industrialized countries and in those still under development. The safe, nonpolluting, and economic supply of energy to mankind in the future includes so many different problems that the technology of the high-temperature reactor at its present level of development, and with the possibilities is offers above and beyond those provided by other, established, technologies, does not have to mark the end of some old line of development, but rather should be seen as the starting point of a development offering promise for the future. It is for this very reason that the extensive, valuable knowledge and experience accumulated in the construction, operation, and decommissioning of the AVR and THTR plants, the development of the HTR module and other variants and, last, but not least, the valuable ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Modern particle accelerators offer new opportunities to dramatically reshape the way we think about nuclear energy, and challenge some of the thorniest problems linked to its industrial use, e.g. nuclear waste. A powerful proton accelerator driving a sub-critical fission reactor could be used for producing energy more safely and burning up the extra spent fuel which so far has been stored in geological repositories.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In 1993, the US Department of Energy (DOE) decided to shut down the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) due to lack of national missions that justified the annual operating budget of approximately $88M/year. The initial vision was to ''deactive'' the facility to an industrially and radiologically safe condition to allow long-term, minimal surveillance storage until approximately 2045. This approach would minimize near term cash flow and allow the radioactive decay of activated components. The final decontamination and decommissioning (D and D) would then be performed using then-current methodology in a safe and efficient manner. the philosophy has now changed to close coupling the initial deactivation with final D and D. This paper presents the status of the facility and focuses on the future challenge of sodium removal.

Science.gov (United States)

MILSTAR's Flexible Substrate Solar Array (FSSA) is an evolutionary development of the lightweight, flexible substrate design pioneered at Lockheed during the seventies. Many of the features of the design are related to the Solar Array Flight Experiment (SAFE), flown on STS-41D in 1984. FSSA development has created a substantial technology base for future flexible substrate solar arrays such as the array for the Space Station Freedom. Lessons learned during the development of the FSSA can and should be applied to the Freedom array and other future flexible substrate designs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Recent research findings of epidemiologist Alice Stewart suggest that nuclear workers may be at risk of contracting cancer even though their measured occupational doses fall within current safety standards. It is argued that these standards are inappropriate as they are based on extrapolations of studies on survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki explosions. These individuals received single doses of radiation, whereas today's nuclear industry personnel are exposed to low-level ionizing radiation over the length of their working lives. Stewart's team linked low dose occupational exposure to ionizing radiation with an increased risk of cancer in respiratory, digestive and blood-forming tissues. The nuclear industry and United States government agencies hotly contest these assertion with their potentially damaging political and economic consequences. (UK).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The report is an overview on the production of the nuclear energy all over the world. The amount of production at present and in future, availability of the nuclear fuel, development of nuclear technology, environmental and safety issues, radioactive waste management and commissioning of the plants and also the competitivity of nuclear energy compared with other energy forms are considered. (91 refs.).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A set of eight questions was put to advanced nuclear medicine physicians-in-training participating in a continuing assessment exercise in practical therapeutic nuclear oncology. Using the particular example of {sup 131}I-MIBG treatment of neuroblastoma in children, the questions were directed to the rationale of therapy and the contribution of other forms of treatment to toxic effects. The best answer to the questions are reproduced together with an introduction by the examiner, Dr. H. Turner. tabs.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The paper discusses the role of the Life Management Programme in ensuring a safe operation of the Dukovany nuclear power plant. The Programme involves the following major items: (i) primary circuit materials degradation assessment, (ii) pipeline damage control by the Flow Assisted Corrosion Monitoring and Prediction Programme, and (iii) the DIALIFE diagnostic system. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nuclear forensics aims at identifying origin and intended use of nuclear material using information inherent to the nuclear material.The information gathered in nuclear forensics include isotopic composition, elemental composition, impurities and age of the material, macroscopic appearance and microstructure. The information so collected helps to solve criminal cases and put the individuals involved in nuclear trafficking in jails. The information also helps to improve safeguards and physical protection measures at place of theft or diversion to prevent future thefts or diversions.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Safety related equipment installed in Korean Nuclear Power Plants are required to perform a safety function during and after a seismic event. To accomplish this safety function, they must be seismically qualified in accordance with the intent and requirements of the USNRC Reg. Guide 1.100 Rev. 02 and IEEE Std. 344-1987. This paper defines and summarizes acceptable criteria and procedures, based on the Korean experience, for seismic qualification of purchased equipment to be installed in a nuclear power plant. As such the paper is intended to be a concise reference by equipment designers, architectural engineering company and plant owners in uniform implementation of commitments to nuclear regulatory agencies such as the USNRC or Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety (KINS) relating to adequacy of seismic Category 1 equipment. Thus, the paper provides the methodologies which can be used for qualifying ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Equipment Qualification technology for I and C system on nuclear grade have been approved with accurate and safe for verifying and validation. It contributes to acknowledge of reliability and to review of user approval. Also it did not completely satisfied the requirement of Russia, it can be satisfied by bit of modification on design. It is expected to support the export of safety PLC to nuclear power plant. Proven EQ technology is required on the further markets of nuclear. Therefore, comparison test with foreign country is necessary to support the mutual accreditation of EQ for export of domestic products.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The world's fleet of nuclear power plants is, on average, more than 20 years old. Even though the design life of a nuclear power plant is typically 30-40 years, it is quite feasible that many plants will be able to operate in excess of their design lives, provided that nuclear power plant engineers demonstrate by analysis, trending, equipment and system upgrades, increased vigilance, testing and ageing management that the plant will operate safely. In the operation of nuclear power plants, safety should be always the prime consideration. Plant operators and regulators must always ensure that plant safety is maintained, and where possible enhanced, during a plant's operating lifetime. Nuclear power plant life management (PLiM) has gained increased attention over the past decade, and effective ageing management of systems, structures and components (SSCs) is a key ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Within the Annual Conference 2009 of the VGB PowerTech e.V. (Essen, Federal Republic of Germany) from 23rd to 25th May, 2009, in Lyon (France) the following lectures were held: (1) Electricity demand, consequences of the financial and economic crisis - Current overview 2020 for the EU-27 (Hans ten Berge); (2) Status and perspectives of the electricity generation mix in France (Bernard Dupraz); (3) European electricity grid - status and perspective (Dominique Maillard); (4) Technologies and acceptance in the European energy market (Gordon MacKerran); (5) EPR construction in Finland, China, France, (Claude Jaouen); (6) EPR Flamanville 3: A project on the path towards nuclear revival (Jacques Alary); (7) Worldwide nuclear Revival and acceptance (Luc Geraets); (8) An overview on the status of final disposal of radioactive wastes worldwide (Piet Zuidema); (9) Who needs pumped storage plants? PSP are partner to grid stability and renewable energies ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Human resource competence building and continued enhancement of performance is the most vital input for safe and reliable operations of a Nuclear Power Plant. Integrated planning leading to the decision of timely selection of optimum number of fresh people and deployment of experienced manpower with desired lead time is inevitable to achieve the above objective. For safe and reliable plant operation human performance analysis followed by suggestive measures to improve the same is needed. Corrective or strengthening input may be in terms of training, work environment, motivations, organizational culture and climate, leadership and prevailing environmental force and bio-rhythm of individuals with critical days are to be worked out The adequacy in training and development not only gives safe and reliable plant operations but results in greater employee satisfaction and self esteem as well. As of date, in ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The role of robotics and remote handling equipment in future nuclear power plant maintenance activities is discussed in the context of artificial intelligence applications. Special requirements manipulators, control systems, and man-machine interfaces for nuclear applications are noted. Tasks might include inspection with cameras, eddy current probes, and leak detectors; the collection of material samples; radiation monitoring; and the disassembly, repair and reassembly of a variety of system components. A robot with vision and force sensing and an intelligent control system that can access a knowledge base is schematically described. Recent advances in image interpretation systems are also discussed.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In Romania, the nuclear power is an element of sustainable development, being competitive, efficient and viable in the market economy. Fuel supply is ensured as nuclear fuel is manufactured in the country out of local uranium resources available in Romania. As for the environmental protection, it is known that, unlike the thermal power plants, the nuclear power plants do not release sulfur and nitrogen oxides, carbon dioxide and do not generate slag and ashes. The operation of nuclear power units does not release pollutants and, accordingly, these stations can contribute to the limitation and the abatement of environmental pollution. After seven years of Cernavoda NPP Unit 1 operation, a facility for storing low and medium level nuclear fuel wastes was built at the plant site as well as an intermediate dry storage for spent nuclear fuel whose first modules were ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The objective was to find out whether international research has now provided sufficiently reliable models to assess the corrosion behavior of spent fuel in groundwater and by this to contribute to answering the question whether the highly radioactive used fuel from nuclear reactors can be disposed of safely in a geological repository. Principal project results are described in the paper

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Software quality assurance (SQA) for robotic systems used in nuclear waste applications is vital to ensure that the systems operate safely and reliably and pose a minimum risk to humans and the environment. This paper describes the SQA approach for the control and data acquisition system for a robotic system being developed for remote surveillance and inspection of underground storage tanks (UST) at the Hanford Site.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nuclear power has been considered for space applications since the 1960s. Between 1955 and 1972 the US built and tested over twenty nuclear reactors/ rocket-engines in the Rover/NERVA programs. However, changes in environmental laws may make the redevelopment of the nuclear rocket more difficult. Recent advances in fuel fabrication and testing options indicate that a nuclear rocket with a fuel form significantly different from NERVA may be needed to ensure public support. The Center for Space Nuclear Research (CSNR) is pursuing development of tungsten based fuels for use in a NTR, for a surface power reactor, and to encapsulate radioisotope power sources. The CSNR Summer Fellows program has investigated the feasibility of several missions enabled by the NTR. The potential mission benefits of a nuclear rocket, historical achievements of the previous programs, and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report, the eighth in a series of annual reports, was prepared in response to congressional inquiries concerning how nuclear regulatory research is used. It summarizes the accomplishments of the Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research during FY 1992. A special emphasis on accomplishments in nuclear power plant aging research reflects recognition that a number of plants are entering the final portion of their original 40-year operating licenses and that, in addition to current aging effects, a focus on safety considerations for license renewal becomes timely. The primary purpose of performing regulatory research is to develop and provide the Commission and its staff with the technical bases for regulatory decisions on the safe operation of licensed nuclear reactors and facilities, to find unknown or unexpected safety problems, and to develop data and related information for the ...

Medline Plus

English - Safe Water in an Emergency Click to Stop Video Click to Start Video To Listen to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document presents the SSI preliminary views and position concerning the decommissioning of nuclear plants. To prevent the exposure of the decommissioning personnel and the general public to unacceptable levels of radiation and to protect the environment and future generations, it is SSI`s task to formulate and issue the necessary terms and regulations with which the reactor licensees must comply during the decommissioning work. The views and principles presented here are the basis of SSI`s continued work on guidelines and regulations for the decommissioning of nuclear plants.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In connection with the Public Inquiry into the CEGB proposal to build a pressurised water reactor at Sizewell in Suffolk, the case for nuclear power is examined under the headings: the economics of nuclear power - how they would like them to be; systems analysis - net effective cost; CEGB prejudices the results (comparison with coal-fired plants; forecasting on various assumptions); discounting future costs; back-end costs soar (reprocessing); real reprocessing costs; AGR costs balloon.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Radioactive waste for legal and regulatory purposes may be defined as material that contains or is contaminated with radio-nuclides at concentrations or activities greater than clearance levels as established by the regulatory body, and for which no use is foreseen. Safe management of radioactive waste is essential to ensure protection of humans and environment. Radioactive waste management policy is a guideline for the safe management of radioactive waste. It expresses the commitment of the country towards the goal. Government should initiate investigation into best long-term option for management of spent nuclear fuels. Process of selecting option and eventual site should involve comprehensive public participation within set time frames (with deep geological disposal as preferred management option).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The authors present arguments against nuclear energy and pro renewable energy sources. Thus, the water used in Uranium mining and primary ore processing becomes contaminated in long lived radioisotopes and so a threat for local ecosystems and communities. Then, during the fabrication, enrichment, and handling of nuclear fuel the workers are exposed to radiations and dangerous accidental radioactive leaks can occur. But, by far, the most menacing aspect of nuclear power exploitation remains the human errors in operating the nuclear plants which can result in major accidents like that from Chernobyl which spread radioactivity all over the Europe. The equipment used in nuclear facilities which is highly contaminated as well as the burned fuel implies transportation and long term storage which also present high risks. The major advantage of the nuclear energy ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Throughout most of the 1980s, both private organizations and government agencies were concerned about the availability of an adequate supply of qualified nuclear engineers. This concern was primarily the result of a number of nuclear engineering academic programs being eliminated coupled with a continuous decline in graduate and undergraduate enrollments and degrees. By the early 1990s, the number of degrees and available supply had declined to new lows, but cutbacks in funding for the nuclear weapons program and nuclear energy R&D, and in hiring by the electric utility industry, offset in large measure the declining supply. Recently, concerns about environment and waste management and about nuclear safety have again generated questions about the adequacy of supply of qualified personnel for nuclear energy activities. This report briefly examines the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper explores the current trends in development of technology-neutral safety requirements to be used in the regulation of future nuclear power reactors and the role of the quantitative safety goals in the design of reactor safety systems. Establishing the requirements concerning the reliability of safety functions rather than on particular systems employed to achieve the functions, as well as the use of the recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) on protection against potential exposure could form the basis of a technology-neutral framework for safety requirements on new reactor designs. Also it could contribute to international harmonisation of nuclear safety assessment practices as part of the licensing processes for future nuclear power plants. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

If trends from the past continue into the future, the major increase in the use of energy will come from the developing nations. If the industrialization of the Third World continues to be based on the burning of fossil fuels, the impact on the global climate from these sources alone will be substantial. Statistical information supporting the above statements is presented. The conclusion is reached that improving the efficiency of energy use is not sufficient to avert climatic changes. The accelerated and worldwide use of nuclear power is essential and, if prudently used, can become, contrary to the recommendations of the Brundtland Commission, the basic energy source fuelling future sustainable developments of the world. (author).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Methods: Systemic irradiation of neuroaxis is an essential part in the management of medulloblastoma, stPNET and intracranial germ cell tumors. The introduction of quality assurance programs in radiooncology assures a precise radiotherapy of target volumes and is a prerequisite to improve survival. Results: Hyperfractionated radiotherapy has the potential of increasing dose to tumor more safely without increasing the risk for late adverse effects. Pilot studies revealed excellent tumor control in medulloblastoma with acceptable acute toxicity and a long-term survival of up to 96%. In medulloblastoma stereotactic radiation techniques reveal an acceptable toxicity and promising results in tumor control in recurrent disease or as primary treatment. They are now part of future treatment protocols in case of persisting residual tumor. Radiotherapy alone in pure germinoma is continuously yielding high cure rates. In secreting germ cell tumors ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper reports that the excess of U.S. electrical generating capacity which has existed for the past 15 years is coming to an end as we enter the 1990s. Environmental and energy security issues associated with fossil fuels are kindling renewed interest in the nuclear option. The importance of these issues are underscored by the National Energy Strategy (NES) which calls for actions which are designed to ensure that the nuclear power option is available to utilities. Utilities, utility associations, and nuclear suppliers, under the leadership of the Nuclear Power Oversight Committee (NPOC), have jointly developed a 14 point strategic plan aimed at establishing a predictable regulatory environment, standardized and pre-licensed Advanced Light Water Reactor (ALWR) nuclear plants, resolving the long-term waste management issue, and other enabling conditions. GE is participating in ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The US Plowshare programme, designed to develop peaceful uses of nuclear explosives, was vigorous between 1957 to 1973 and was of concern during US and USSR nuclear treaty negotiations within that period. In order to accommodate possible future applications, the Peaceful Nuclear Explosions (PNE) Treaty was signed in 1976. The US programme explored the phenomenology of nuclear explosions and tested their use in industrial applications. Due to waning industrial interest and public concern over environmental issues, the US program was terminated in 1977. The Soviet counterpart to the Plowshare programme, which has involved roughly 100 experiments throughout the USSR, continued until the self-imposed moratorium in 1985. As any peaceful use of nuclear explosives has the potential of furthering weapons research, the US takes the position that all such experiments ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Nuclear energy generates 30% of the electricity in the EU. Still, different countries of EU27 have very different attitudes towards the future use of nuclear energy for electricity generation or other uses. However, independently of the political decision of continuation or phase out of the nuclear energy, all countries using nuclear energy to generate electricity are facing the question of the final management of its spent nuclear fuel and other high level radioactive wastes. Partition and Transmutation are emerging technologies that when integrated in advanced fuel cycles can strongly influence on the final wastes from the nuclear industry and its management. A review of the progress on the understanding of their real potentialities and main conclusions from a large number of internation...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The US Department of Energy is currently constructing the Waste Isolation Pilot near Carlsbad, New Mexico. The full-scale pilot plant will demonstrate the feasibility of the safe disposal of defense-related nuclear waste in a bedded salt formation at a depth of 2160 feet below the surface. WIPP will provide for the permanent storage of 25,000 cu ft of remote-handled (RH) transuranic waste and 6,000,000 cu ft of contact-handled (CH) transuranic waste. This paper covers the major mechanical/structural design considerations for the waste hoist and its hoist tower structure. The design of the hoist system and safety features incorporates state-of-the-art technology developed in the hoist and mining industry to ensure safe operation for transporting nuclear waste underground. Also included are design specifications for VOC-10 monitoring system.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Weakly penetrating radiation monitoring and investigating with area monitors and individual dosimeters were carried out at Daya Bay nuclear power plant during its refueling outages. This paper introduces monitoring methods, measuring results, data analysis and assessment, presents some suggestions for monitoring plan and protection measures in the future as well. (authors)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Monitoring and diagnostic systems are of main importance for a safe and efficient operation of nuclear power plants. The author describes new developments with respect to vibration monitoring with a functional extension in the time domain for den secondary circuit, the development of a local system for the surveillance of rotating machines, the structure-borne sound monitoring with improvement of event analysis, esp. the loose part locating, leakage monitoring with a complete system for humidity measurement, and the development of a common platform for all monitoring and diagnostic systems, that allows an efficient access for comparison and cross references.

Wastenet

and develop markets for soy alternatives, such as lupins.14

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

`Experimental Seminar on Nuclear Energy for Teachers` was conducted and sponsored by the Science and Technology Agency. And in order to understand nuclear energy properly through lectures and experiments with good results inclass, the seminar carried out for teachers of high schools and junior high schools by the Nuclear Technology and Education Center (NuTEC), Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute in 1990 FY to 1997 FY. In this report, details of the seminars in the above period are described and No.1 to 17 of Communication Letters of Experimental Seminar on Nuclear Energy` started at 1992 FY are described also. These letters were prepared for attendant follow-up program. And programs of recent seminars, future`s seminars, impressions and comments from attendants, reports from actual classes and others are described in these letters and they are very useful for educational classes ...

International Science & Technology Center (ISTC)

Safe Transference of Spent Fuel Assemblies from Near-Reactor Storage Pools to Long-term "Dry" Storage

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper presents a rationale for and a summary of tasks and missions to which mobile and stationary robots and other teleoperator-controlled devices could be assigned in response to the accidental release of radioactive and other hazardous/toxic materials to the environment. Many of these vehicles and devices currently support operation and maintenance of nuclear power plants and other nuclear industry facilities. This paper also discusses specific missions for these devices at the Three Mile Island and Chernobyl nuclear power plant sites at the time of the accidents. Also discussed is the status of devices under development for future applications, as well as research on robotics.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The current role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in different organ systems is discussed and compared to nuclear medicine and to other available clinical diagnostic modalities. The value of optimizing radiofrequency pulse sequence selection to provide additional tissue characterization is also described. The results of nuclear medicine and MRI studies in 56 patients are compared to evaluate the clinical diagnostic contribution of each imaging modality for various pathological processes. In addition, the state-of-the-art MRI systems and future development in MRI technology with its potential contribution is defined.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Nuclear Data Interface (NDI) code library and data formats are the standards for multigroup nuclear data at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NDI's analysis, design, implementation, testing, integration, and maintenance required a ten person-year and ongoing effort by the Nuclear Data Team. Their efforts provide a unique, contemporary experience in producing a standard component library. In reflection upon that experience at NDI's decennial, we have identified several factors critical to NDI's success: it addressed real problems with appropriate simplicity, it fully supported all users, it added extra value through the code to the raw nuclear data, and its team went the distance from analysis through maintenance. In this report we review these critical success factors and discuss their implications for future standardization projects.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) has many R and D facilities in operation, including HANARO research reactor, radioactive waste treatment facility (RWTF), post-irradiation examination facility (PIEF) and irradiated material test facility (IMEF). Recently, nation-wide interest is focused on the safety and security of major industrial facilities. Safe operation of nuclear facilities is imperative because of the consequence of public disaster by radiological release/ contamination, in case of an accident. Recently, Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) of the Korean government announced amendments of Atomic Energy laws to enforce requirements of the physical protection and radiological emergency. In this paper, the context of amended Atomic Energy laws were reviewed to confirm quality assurance measures and identify additional QA activities, if any, that is required by the amendment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Considering the present situation of thermal energy in Romania and having in view the fact that Romania is a Kyoto protocol signatory state one estimates that the development of the nuclear energy will have a promising growth. According with the statement of the National Energetic Observer, Romania became a net energy resource importer for the past 30 years and the estimations about the future are not optimistic. The finite reserves of fossil fuel (coal and natural gas), the gradual reduction of their share in the national energy balance with a tendency to become insignificant after 2025, as well as the present situation of the thermal power plants which are already beyond their operation life, all these indicate the nuclear energy as being the most reliable and sustainable future source for thermal energy production. Having in view these circumstances the paper aims at a short presentation of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Work at Institutt for energiteknikk (IFE) comprises both nuclear and non-nuclear activities. The main nuclear program is centered on the Halden Reactor Project. In 1958, the first Halden Reactor Project Agreement was signed by organisations representing 12 European countries. During 1994 France became a full member and associate membership was established with Russia. Accordingly, 16 countries were participating in the Project by the end of the year. The objectives have evolved from being simply a demonstration of the operation of a boiling heavy-water reactor to becoming a substantial research and development programme covering the domains of human-machine interaction, fuel behaviour, materials testing, water chemistry, and instrumentation. In 1994, significant progress was achieved in all of the areas addressed by the project, including the re-instrumentation of irradiated fuel rods, fission gas release, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The days of high-temperature reactors in the Federal Republic of Germany are numbered. The AVR has been decommissioned, and an application has been filed for licensing the decommissioning of the THTR. Nevertheless, Prof. Dr. Rudolf Schulten who is the director of Juelich Nuclear Research Center's Institute for Reactor Development, and also full professor of Aachen Technical University in the field of reactor safety, predicts a good future for the HTR reactor line on a worldwide level, due to the inherent safety of this reactor type. (orig.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

During the water detritiation process most of the tritium inventory is transferred from water into the gaseous phase, then it is further enriched and finally extracted and safely stored. The control of tritium inventory is an acute issue from several points of view: - Financially - tritium is an expensive material; - Safeguard - tritium is considered as nuclear material of strategic importance; - Safety - tritium is a radioactive material: requirements for documented safety analysis report (to ensure strict limits on the total tritium allowed) and for evaluation of accident consequences associated with that inventory. Large amounts of tritium can be stored, in a very safely manner, as metal tritides. A bench-scale experiment of a tritium storage bed with integrated system for in-situ tritium inventory accountancy was designed and developed at ICSI Rm. Valcea. The calibration curve and the detection limit for this ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The unique time scales associated with nuclear waste management require active work to preserve the knowledge associated with programs that can often span long time frames. For example, repository programs are designed and developed for the safe containment of radionuclides with half-lives on the order of 24,000 years (for Pu-239). Performance assessment studies are required to show, by predictive modeling, that these repositories can safely contain the waste for tens of thousands of years, with one million years a reality in the debate. Development of successful repository programs can span several decades. Once operational, a repository is expected to function until closure for a period of 30 to 40 years. Yet, the decision makers at all levels in such a repository program exert influence and authority over much shorter periods of time (e.g., four years for executive appointments). A discontinuous decision-making process ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A.C.R.O. contests some new recommendations of ICRP: a scale based on the ambient natural exposure ( 'it is not dangerous because it is the natural level'), a level of exposure called trivial risk with the threshold value at 30 {mu}Sv. Even if the value is proposed now at 10 {mu}Sv, it is the notion of threshold that is contested. For A.C.R.O. These new considerations would lead to significant exposure levels, tend to the everyday acceptance of the risk, aim at exempting of their responsibilities the nuclear operators, the politics and the institutions which urge upon the development of large nuclear programs without trying beforehand to ponder all the consequences in particular on the long term. (N.C.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Societatea Nationala Nuclearelectrica SA is the operator of the Cernavoda nuclear power plant and the second largest energy producer in Romania, after Hidroelectrica, ensuring 18% of the internal energy demand. The production of nuclear power differs from other industrial activities through the risks it involves and through the legacy it leaves to the future generations, i.e. the nuclear waste. Taking into account these considerations, public acceptance represents a constant preoccupation for nuclear companies around the world. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a new practice in the nuclear industry. After a long tradition of involvement in the life of the local community through the Social Program for Cernavoda, Nuclearelectrica has initiated a CSR campaign with the theme 'Welcome a tree in your family', addressed to pupils and high school students from ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In 1995, 25,8 % of the world electricity consumption was of nuclear origin, while in the EU this figure is increased up to 50,6 %. In order to maintain and even to increase its share in the electricity generation, Nuclear Energy needs to achieve a good economic performance as a base load source when compared with its competitors, basically coal and gas fired plants. Fossil-fired generation costs have declined over the past ten years, mainly due to lower fossil fuel prices. This factor together with the recently observed tendency of higher discount rates to be applied are challenging the attractiveness of the nuclear energy. Nuclear energy is a capital intensive option. Taken into account extensive standardization programs has been established aiming at cost reductions as well as to increase efficiency of nuclear energy utilization, among their main purposes. Externalities play an ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The author gives the historical development of steam-turbine construction in Europe since the turn of the century, and the technical further development of conventional turbines due to the increases in the steam parameters and per-unit outputs in the increases in the steam parameters and per-unit outputs in Europe and the USA. Marginal conditions for the development of turbines in nuclear power stations with light-water reactors are mentioned. The rise in the per-unit capacities of the turbosets constructed in Germany and the USA for nuclear power stations is discussed. Longitudinal sections through typical turbines are shown. The future development of turbines with high output is dealt with. (orig.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The exchange of information and experience among Member Sates is an essential component of the IAEA action plan for addressing the Year 2000 problem. The objective is to enable Member States to identify any gaps in their own conversion programmes, benefit form the experience of others in developing remedial actions and establish the basis for future action to solve remaining problems. Experts in Year 2000 issues particularly those related to digital equipment prepared this report dealing with nuclear fuel cycle facilities

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Large scale steam storage power generation, one of the new energy storage systems for the future of inflexible electric power sources consisting of nuclear and coal power plants has been studied on the subjects of the systems to be attached to coal and nuclear power units, of the definition of storage efficiency and of the vertical steam storage vessel technology. Steam storage power generation may be hopeful for its higher efficiency similarly defined as of pumped storage plants while high temperature heat storage and the internal structure of large vertical steam storage vessel (accumulator) need to be developed. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

One of the issues identified in the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission`s Nuclear Plant Aging Research program plan is the need to understand the state of ``mothballed`` or other out-of-service equipment to ensure subsequent safe operation. Programs for proper storage and preservation of materials and components are required by NRC regulations (10 CFR 50, Appendix B). However, materials and components have been seriously degraded due to improper storage, protection, or layup, at facilities under construction as well as those with operating licenses. Pacific Northwest Laboratory has evaluated management of aging for unstarted or mothballed nuclear power plants. The investigations revealed that no uniform guidance in the industry addresses reactor layup. In each case investigated, layup was not initiated in a timely manner, primarily because of schedule uncertainty. Hence, it is reasonable to assume that ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Following the unexpected, but safely terminated, power and flow oscillations in the LaSalle-2 Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) on March 9, 1988, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Offices of Nuclear Reactor Regulation (NRR) and of Analysis and Evaluation of Operational Data (AEOD) requested that the Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research (RES) carry out BWR stability analyses, centered around fourteen specific questions. Ten of the fourteen questions address BWR stability issues in general and are dealt with in this paper. The other four questions address local, out-of-phase oscillations and matters of instrumentation; they fall outside the scope of the work reported here. It was the purpose of the work documented in this report to answer ten of the fourteen NRC-stipulated questions. Nine questions are answered by analyzing the LaSalle-2 instability and related BWR transients with the BNL Engineering ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text: The transmutation of nuclear waste to reduce the burden on a geological repository is a relevant topic within the Program of Nuclear Safety Research of the Research Centre Karlsruhe. Several studies have confirmed that a high efficiency of transmutation of actinides is reached in fast neutron spectrum reactor system. Therefore, an important effort is dedicated to the study of transmutation strategies with different fast reactors and their associated technologies. Moreover, in international contexts as Generation IV International Forum (GIF) and Sustainable Nuclear Energy Technology Platform (SNETP), fast reactors are considered in the frame of sustainable development of nuclear energy and reduction of waste. The systems that are currently under investigation, in the frame of the different fuel cycle scenarios, are liquid metal cooled and gas cooled fast reactors as well as Accelerator Driven ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

HLW disposal is one of the largest issue to utilize Nuclear power safely. In the past study, the concept, which buffer materials and Overpacked waste were transported into underground respectively, have shown. The concept of pre-assembled engineered barrier has advantage to simplify the logistics and emplacement procedure, however there are difficulties to support heavy weight of pre-assembled package by equipment under the condition of little clearance between tunnel and package. In this study, Combination of air bearing and two degree-of-freedom wheels were suggested for transportation, and air jack was suggested for unloading and emplacement system. Also, whole system for transportation and emplacement procedure was designed, and Scale model test was examined to evaluate the feasibility of these concept and functions. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The fundamental points to be considered in a waste treatment system for a country like Japan, where the final disposal method has not been decided and the wastes have to be stored in the power plants, are volume reduction of the wastes, safe storage of the wastes in the plant, and flexibility regarding the final disposal. A system has been developed that consists of a thin film evaporator for the direct solidification of the liquid waste, a pelletizer for producing hard pellets from the powdered wastes, a pellet storage unit, and a solidification unit for the final disposal. A pilot plant with waste treatment capacity of 200 kg/h was built in 1976 and has proved the system feasibility. This paper reports on pilot plant tests of the thin film evaporator and other components, tests on pellet deterioration during long term storage, and integrity tests on the final disposal of the pellet bitumen package.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Materials and Components Technology Division (MCT) provides a research and development capability for the design, fabrication, and testing of high-reliability materials, components, and instrumentation. Current divisional programs related to nuclear energy support the development of the Integral Fast Reactor (IFR): life extension and accident analyses for light water reactors (LWRs); fuels development for research and test reactors; fusion reactor first-wall and blanket technology; and safe shipment of hazardous materials. MCT Conservation and Renewables programs include major efforts in high-temperature superconductivity, tribology, nondestructive evaluation (NDE), and thermal sciences. Fossil Energy Programs in MCT include materials development, NDE technology, and Instrumentation design. The division also has a complementary instrumentation effort in support of Arms Control Technology. Individual abstracts have been prepared for the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

{sup 90}Sr, with a long half-life of 28.5 years, is the most dangerous strontium isotope. The adsorption behavior of radionuclides in the environment are closely related to the safe disposal of radioactive wastes. Since various types of minerals may exist in and around the repositories used for ultimate disposal of nuclear waste, the adsorption behavior of certain radionuclides onto and from these minerals and similar adsorbents should be studied in order to estimate the rates of transport of the nuclides in the event of water penetration into and through the repository. Information on the adsorption properties of the purified individual clay minerals may not be sufficient to predict the adsorption properties of a corresponding mixture, because these clay minerals may interact with each other and lead to modification of the adsorption properties of the mixture as compared to the pure minerals. The adsorption behavior of strontium on kaolinite ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In order to maintain a safe operation and availability of generating facilities, qualitative and quantitative assessment of piping vibration was performed vibration sources and damages of piping support was identified on the second piping system of Wolsung nuclear power plant unit 1 .Inspected piping supports and structures in both hot and cold condition .Established evaluation procedures of piping vibration .Performed the static analysis of 2 nd piping system .Established optimal vibration reducing method .The measured vibration level after installing rigid supports and energy absorbing type restraint was reduced about 7 times in velocity unit (author). 24 refs., 95 figs.

Science.gov (United States)

Given here are the proceedings of the 3rd Space Exploration Initiative (SEI) Technical Interchange. Topics covered include the First Lunar Outpost (FLO), the Lunar Resource Mapper, lunar rovers, lunar habitat concepts, lunar shelter construction analysis, thermoelectric nuclear power systems for SEI, cryogenic storage, a space network for lunar communications, the moon as a solar power satellite, and off-the-shelf avionics for future SEI missions.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The study required by the West German Ministry of Research and Technology (RS 605) for the Committee on 'Future Nuclear Energy Policy' of the 9th German Parliament is concerned with the following main points: 1) Assessment of technical risks from the social aspect; 2) Discussion of terms and quantification of risks; 3) 'Engineering judgment' and 'questionable' methods in the Fast Breeder analysis of the Society for Reactor Safety (GRS); 4) Assessment criteria of potential damage. (HP).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The report presents selected highlights of how research has contributed to the regulatory effort. It explains the research role of the NRC and nuclear safety research contributions in the areas of: pressure vessel integrity, piping, small- and large-break loss-of-coolant accidents, hydrogen and containment, source term analysis, seismic hazards and high-level waste management. The report also provides a summary of current and future research directions in support of regulation.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Summaries of the highlights of programs in the Earth Sciences Division are presented under four headings; Geosciences, Geothermal Energy Development, Nuclear Waste Isolation, and Marine Sciences. Utilizing both basic and applied research in a wide spectrum of topics, these programs are providing results that will be of value in helping to secure the nation's energy future. Separate abstracts have been prepared for each project for inclusion in the Energy Data Base. (DMC)

Science.gov (United States)

This report provides an initial survey of the domestic and international safeguards requirements and provides a general framework on which future studies may be based. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the activities required to implement effective safeguards within the civilian waste management system and to ensure compliance with all safeguards requirements. 16 refs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Valuing present citizen's values regarding the risks they face is an important aspect of risk assessment and risk acceptability. Conferences like VALDOR are held for this reason. Governments like Sweden have national referendums on various risk-prone enterprises. The results of these referendums can determine the future of these programs. In the United States, when guidelines are set for determining acceptable levels of risk, the relevant federal agencies are often required to provide a comment period regarding proposed guidelines in order to ascertain the judgments, including the weights place on certain values, of individual members of society as well as stakeholder groups. After the comment period ends, the agency decides on the acceptable level of risk, taking into account the comments from present citizens. Do we also have a duty to value the not-yet-existing values of future citizens, especially if the risks created by the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pyrochemical processing of nuclear fuels using molten salts has attracted much attention because of its potential to be applied for a future spent nuclear fuel management. In the pyrochemical processing, there are a number of steps to electro-refine and electro-win each element of lanthanides and actinides, commonly called trans-uranic elements (TRU). In order to materialize the pyrochemical processing in the nuclear power plant environments, qualitatively and quantitatively monitoring of each elements is necessary. Thus, we have undertaken to develop an on-line observing system of the TRU in LiCl-KCl molten salt media by using electrochemical and spectroscopic methods. In this work, the electrochemical and spectroscopic behaviors of europium as a proxy material for TRU were investigated simultaneously in the LiCl-KCl molten salt.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Japan's basic nuclear policy is to reprocess spent fuel and to effectively use the recovered plutonium and uranium. MOX fuel utilization in LWRs is promoted in 16-18 reactors by FY2015. Commercial operation of Rokkasho Reprocessing Plant is planned to start in 2012. Prototype reactor 'Monju' restarted operation in May 2010. From FY 2007, Fast Reactor Cycle Technology Development Project (FaCT project) started which focuses more toward the commercialization stage FBR cycle. Basic scenario of Japan's R and D aims for realization of demonstration FBR by around 2025 and introducing commercial FBRs before 2050. Smooth transition from LWR fuel cycle to FBR one is an important point. For nuclear fuel cycle which requires long term R and D, human resources development and keeping is vitally important. (author)

Science.gov (United States)

BACKGROUND: The urgent need for patient safety education for healthcare students has been recognised by many accreditation bodies, but to date there has been sporadic attention to undergraduate/graduate medical programmes. Medical students themselves have identified quality and safety of care as an important area of instruction; as future doctors and healthcare leaders, they must be prepared to practise safe healthcare. Medical education has yet to fully embrace patient safety concepts and principles into existing medical curricula. Universities are continuing to produce graduate doctors lacking in the patient safety knowledge, skills and behaviours thought necessary to deliver safe care. A significant challenge is that patient safety is still a relatively new concept and area of study; thus, many medical educators are unfamiliar with the literature and unsure how to integrate patient safety learning into existing ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The DEFENSE WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM has been chartered by the Department of Energy (DOE) to receive, reduce, store, and maintain all radioactive defense waste generated by Hanford and received from offsite DOE contractors in a safe condition and in accordance with DOE and Westinghouse Hanford Company (WHC) standards. These activities are accomplished through the use of TRU retrievable storage sites, solid waste burial grounds, liquid waste storage tanks, capsule storage pools, and other low-level waste disposal methods. Continuous and/or periodic surveillance is maintained. Through the use of improved packaging methods, evaporator-crystallization and capsule production waste has been and continues to be put in a safe and economic storage condition pending future reprocessing or final disposition. For this Program Plan, the scope of Defense Waste Management programmatic activities has been organized into three general ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Radiation decontamination of dry ingredients, herbs and enzyme preparations is a technically feasible, economically viable and safe physical process. The procedure is direct, simple, requires no additives and is highly efficient. Its dose requirement is moderate. Radiation doses of 3-10 kGy (0.3-1 mrad) have proved sufficient to reduce the viable counts to a satisfactory level. Ionising radiations do not cause any significant rise in temperature. The flavour, texture or other important technological or sensory properties of most ingredients are not influenced at radiation doses necessary for satisfactory decontamination, and radiation obviates the chemical residue problem. The microflora surviving radiation decontamination of dry ingredients are more susceptible to subsequent antimicrobial treatments. Recontamination can be prevented as the product can be irradiated in its final packaging. Irradiation could be carried out in commercial containers and would result ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document outlines the Maintenance Implementation Plan (MIP) for the Plutonium Finishing Plant (PFP) located at the Hanford site at Richland, Washington. This MIP describes the PFP maintenance program relative to DOE order 4330.4B. The MIP defines the key actions needed to meet the guidelines of the Order to produce a cost-effective and efficient maintenance program. A previous report identified the presence of significant quantities of Pu-bearing materials within PFP that pose risks to workers. PFP`s current mission is to develop, install and operate processes which will mitigate these risks. The PFP Maintenance strategy is to equip the facility with systems and equipment able to sustain scheduled PFP operations. The current operating run is scheduled to last seven years. Activities following the stabilization operation will involve an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to determine future plant activities. This strategy includes long-term maintenance of the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nuclear facilities of the Department of Energy (DOE) located at the Savannah River Site must comply with DOE orders as implemented at DOE-SR. The DOE orders cover safety criteria, design criteria, environmental protection, occupational health and safety. The program applies to DOE and contractors. In this section, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) criteria and industry codes and standards are addressed as well as DOE orders. Specific DOE orders which add additional criteria have also been noted. A program for assessing and implementing contractor applicable DOE orders has been established. This program ensures that compliance is achieved through developing and implementing policies, programs, and procedures. The primary emphasis is placed on safe, efficient reactor restart and operation. DOE has classified orders applicable to restart as Level I, Category I while those applicable to post-restart are classified as ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper introduces the solid radwaste management system, treatment methods and its continuous improvement during the past 9 years in Guangdong Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station (GNPS). GNPS has paid great attention and made a lot of efforts to implement the principle of waste minimization with source control, improvement of treatment process and strict management, so the output of solid radwastes has annually decreased since 1994. In 2002, the output of solid radwastes in GNPS was 63.5 m"3, only 50% of 1995 (127 m"3), reached the advanced level as the same type NPPs in France. During the period 1994-2002, the accumulated production of solid radwaste Packages in GNPS is 1563.51 m"3 only 18% of the design value; all the packages meet the standard and requirement for safe disposal. Besides, this paper analyzes some new technical processes and presents some proposals for further decreasing the solid radwaste production

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The contribution is concerned from a legal point of view with the systematic recording, classification and assessment of specific problems concerning the post-operational phase of a nuclear power plant. As an introduction, present experience with decommissioning in the Federal Republic of Germany is dealt with. The first part treats the factual side of section 7 III AtG, explains the terms mentioned, the concrete extent of licensing and priority relations. In part 2 the preconditions for licensing pursuant to section 7 III AtG are dealt with, the stipulations of which are made difficult in particular on account of the reference in section 7 III sentence 2 AtG. The third part is concerned with the legal consequence of section III AtG, i.e. the extent of official discretionary powers, whereby aspects of radioactive waste management carry great weight. In part four administrative and procedural particularities in the legal sense relating to licensing according to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

On February 1, 1984, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission issued Generic Letter 84-04 on the subject of postulated pipe breaks in pressurized water reactor (PWR) primary coolant loops, opening the way for pipe-whip restraint exemptions. The letter substitutes the leak-before-break (LBB) criteria for the double-ended guillotine break regarding PWR primary reactor coolant system (RCS) piping and asymmetric blowdown loads. The LBB criterion refers to the fact that a piping flaw will leak before it breaks. The current requirement to provide pipe-whip restraints is applied within the plant to all high-energy piping with a potential for damaging structures, systems, and components essential to safe reactor shutdown. This includes primary RCS piping 30 in. and larger as well as smaller piping systems. A study was performed to evaluate the applicability of the LBB criteria proposed in NUREG-1061 to the latter set. The costs and benefits of this kind of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reporting of the first nuclear trafficking incidents began in the early 1990's. The incidents were handled on a national level, using the resources and expertise available in the respective states. However, it soon became evident that fighting this illicit movement of nuclear material across borders would require international cooperation and a systematic and methodological approach. To this end, the G-8 states encouraged the creation of a dedicated group of experts. The Nuclear Smuggling International Technical Working Group (ITWG) was created in the mid 1990's under the auspices of the G-8, following the 1995 Ottawa summit and the 1996 nuclear security summit held in Moscow. The group reports regularly to the Nuclear Safety and Security Group (NSSG) of the G-8. The ITWG has been working towards a sustainable mechanism to help resolve the international problem surrounding combating ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A closed economic system was assumed for the Veneto Region (Italy) in order to define an appropriate input-output model and assess the future economic and environmental impacts of proposed actions for energy source development and economic growth. Present and forecasted energy demands (to the year 2000) were determined by energy source, e.g., natural gas, coal, petroleum and hydropower for the different consuming sectors - agriculture, transportation, industry, etc. Forecasts were made of the air pollution expected as a result of different types of energy and technology inputs for each sector. These considered planned retrofits towards clean combustion systems. Costs were estimated for the implementation of proposed pollution abatement measures, as well as, for the effects of energy use related environmental damage and measures to restore the environment. Some of the factors taken into account were: the regional impacts of the Italian National Energy Plan; the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objective of this study was to determine if any fluids or materials used in the Exploratory Shaft Facility (ESF) of Yucca Mountain will make the mountain unsuitable for future construction of a nuclear waste repository. Yucca Mountain, an area on and adjacent to the Nevada Test Site in southern Nevada, USA, is a candidate site for permanent disposal of high-level radioactive waste from commercial nuclear power and defense nuclear activities. To properly characterize Yucca Mountain, it will be necessary to construct an underground test facility, in which in situ site characterization tests can be conducted. The candidate repository horizon at Yucca Mountain, however, could potentially be compromised by fluids and materials used in the site characterization tests. To minimize this possibility, Los Alamos National Laboratory was directed to evaluate the kinds of fluids and materials that will be used ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Savannah River Site (SRS) is a key installation for the production and research of nuclear materials for national defense and peace time applications and has been operating a full nuclear fuel cycle since the early 1950s. Wastes generated include high level radioactive, transuranic, low level radioactive, hazardous, mixed, sanitary, and aqueous wastes. Much progress has been made during the last several years to reduce these wastes including management systems, characterization, and technology programs. The reduction of wastes generated and the proper handling of the wastes have always been a part of the Site`s operation. This paper summarizes the current status and future plans with respect to waste reduction to waste reduction and reviews some specific examples of successful activities.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report reviews system safety analysis methods and examines their application to nuclear waste management systems. The safety analysis methods examined include expert opinion, maximum credible accident approach, design basis accidents approach, hazard indices, preliminary hazards analysis, failure modes and effects analysis, fault trees, event trees, cause-consequence diagrams, G0 methodology, Markov modeling, and a general category of consequence analysis models. Previous and ongoing studies on the safety of waste management systems are discussed along with their limitations and potential improvements. The major safety methods and waste management safety related studies are surveyed. This survey provides information on what safety methods are available, what waste management safety areas have been analyzed, and what are potential areas for future study.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The strategy for the Korean nuclear power plant lifetime management (PLIM) program, which has been developed over the last 3 years, is introduced, together with descriptions of recent events and related maintenance activities. This leading Korean PLIM project has been focused on such areas as a plant data survey, screening and prioritization of systems, structures and components (SSCs), aging evaluation of major components, economic analysis and regulatory issues. The current status is outlined in terms of major tasks including aging evaluation of 13 major components. The future long-term plan which eventually aims at maximizing the economic benefit for both the utility and its customers is presented. Also described is the technical development required for plant life extension. (orig.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The benchmark calculations have been performed for MCNP-4B code using the measurement data of Wolsong nuclear power plant 2. In this study, the benchmark calculations have been performed for the criticality, boron worth, reactivity device worth, reactivity coefficient, and flux scan. Cross-section libraries were newly generated from ENDF/B-VI release 3 through NJOY97.114 data processing system and a three-dimensional full core model was developed for MCNP calculation. The simulation results have shown that the criticality is estimated within 4 mkn and the estimated reactivity worth of the control devices are generally consistent with the measurement data. In certain cases, the simulation results have shown large discrepancies against the measurement data, which will be sturdied further in the near future.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper summarizes the findings from an exploratory definition of a usage strategy for multiple control centre wall displays in CANDU nuclear power plants. Wall displays are defined as large sized, vertically oriented display surfaces that may be positioned in various locations about a control room to support user information needs. The paper begins by discussing the need for a usage strategy for all control room information resources, and then reviews the history in wall display implementation and usage in nuclear power plant control rooms. The balance of the paper discusses the approach used in characterization and review of control room task information needs and definition of a wall display usage strategy. The paper concludes by outlining some of the possible impacts on future control room design and operations that the introduction of wall displays may imply. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The paper is based on a NEA study entitled 'Past Trends and Current State of Nuclear Research Institutes', which has been published in 1996. The evolution of nuclear research institutes (NRIs) in NEA countries is described from their establishment in the early fifties to present. The objectives, missions, purposes, and competences of NRIs are highlighted. Further, the resources (budget, qualified manpower, equipment such as research reactors and laboratories) are analysed, emphasising the role of the government. Country specific examples are given to illustrate different aspects of the historic evolution, present status and trends of NRIs. It is expected that the future role of NRIs will reflect the progress in nuclear science and technology and the evolving requirements of the nuclear industry with regard to safety enhancement, fuel cycle optimisation, plant life time management ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The objective of this study is to comprehend the basic structural characteristics of box shaped mixed structures proposed for a future nuclear reactor building structure. Specimens of reinforced concrete precast panel walls of the mixed structures were prepared using ultrahigh strength materials. Two bending shear tests were conducted with a parameter of the quantity of reinforcement bars. The results include: (1) Relationship of shear stress and the angle of the structure, and (2) Failure mode. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The study required by the West German Ministry of Research and Technology (RS 605) for the Committee on 'Future Nuclear Energy Policy' of the 9th German Parliament is concerned with the following main points: 1) Assessment of technical risks from the social aspect; 2) Discussion of terms and quantification of risks; 3) 'Engineering judgment' and 'questionable' methods in the Fast Breeder analysis of the Society for Reactor Safety (GRS); 4) Assessment criteria of potential damage.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the last 30 years the production of electricity in the USSR has increased 14-fold, probably attaining 1540 billion kWH in 1985. Nuclear generation will provide the bulk of future increases of consumption, using both water-cooled and uranium/graphite reactors; stations of up to 1.5 million kW are in service. The USSR is also in the fore-front of attempts to exploit thermonuclear power. The USSR is also conducting experiments with renewable sources of energy such as solar, geothermal, wind and wave power and with magnetohydrodynamic generation. (D.A.J.).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The state of the laboratory address by LLNL Director Roger Batzel is summarized, and a breakdown of the laboratory funding is given. The Livermore defense-related committment is described, including the design and development of advanced nuclear weapons as well as research in inertial confinement fusion, nonnuclear ordnance, and particle beam technology. LLNL is also applying its scientific and engineering resources to the dual challenge of meeting future energy needs without degrading the quality of the biosphere. Some representative examples are given of the supporting groups vital for providing the specialized expertise and new technologies required by the laboratory's major research programs. (GHT)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Use of a broadband Local Area Network (LAN) for transmission of classified and secure unclassified information requires monitoring capabilities which are sensitive to discrete segments of the network frequency spectrum. A viable monitoring system must be capable of detecting possible intrusion attempts or network malfunctions and alerting operating and security personnel. This report documents the results of an evaluation of the Magnavox CATV Systems Inc. Digital System Sentry software for network monitoring. Recommendations are made on its possible future role in broadband LAN security monitoring throughout the Nuclear Weapons Complex.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Economic and safe operation of nuclear power plants requires reliable steam turbines with high efficiencies. The progress in flow mechanics achieved over the past few years has allowed the use of powerful methods of flow calculation in developments of new blading with greatly enhanced efficiencies. Thanks to the latest manufacturing techniques, the newly developed blading systems can be produced at low cost. Next to progress in flow mechanics, also the broadbased use of advanced finite-element calculations resulted in a more thorough grasp of the many problems associated with structural mechanics assessment of steam turbine components. The theoretical methods have been supplemented by comprehensive efforts in fracture mechanics and experimental materials studies, thus helping to create a reliable knowledge base which will help to avoid the dreaded stress corrosion cracking phenomenon, in components of steam turbines. The measures introduced to ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text: The ITWG was first formed in 1995 for the purpose of fostering international cooperation for combating illicit trafficking of nuclear materials. The initial focus for the ITWG was on the development of nuclear forensics to help answer attribution questions regarding nuclear materials of unknown origin. More recently, the ITWG has also expanded its focus to include detection of nuclear materials during transit. This paper presents some of the key developments by this group and their potential impact for combating nuclear smuggling. The initial focus of the ITWG was to write a status report on international cooperation on nuclear smuggling forensic analysis. This 26-page report summarized previous work on nuclear forensics and gave an initial analysis on prioritizing techniques and methods for forensic analysis regarding source and ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nuclear material is either a product of technological processing of natural source material or it is entirely of anthropogenic origin. Consequently, nuclear material carries 'tool-marks' or 'fingerprints' of the process it was subjected to. Uranium fuels are examples of the first category, while plutonium belongs to the second category. The nature of these production processes is reflected in the elemental and isotopic composition of the material as well as in its microscopic and macroscopic appearance. All of these parameters can be determined using appropriate analytical techniques and they may result in important conclusions on the history and on the origin of the material. Therefore, they provide the most essential contribution to the prevention of future diversions of nuclear material from the same source. So far, essentially metallic impurities or light elements have been investigated for their ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Corrosion is a primary determinant of waste package performance at the proposed Yucca Mountain Repository and will control the delay time for radionuclide transport from the waste package. Corrosion is the most probable and most likely degradation process that will determine when packages will be penetrated and the shape, size, and distribution of those penetrations. The general issues in corrosion science, materials science and electrochemistry are well defined, and the knowledge base is substantial for understanding corrosion processes. In this paper, the Yucca Mountain Repository is viewed from a corrosion perspective. A major component of the long-term strategy for safe disposal of nuclear waste at the Yucca Mountain Repository is first to completely isolate the radionuclides in the waste packages for long times and to greatly retard the egress and transport of radionuclides from penetrated packages. Therefore, long-lived waste packages are ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This Maintenance Implementation Plan (MIP) has been developed for maintenance functions associated with the B Plant/WESF (Waste Encapsulation Storage Facility) complex. The objective of this plan is to provide baseline information for establishing and identifying WHC conformance programs and policies applicable to implementation of DOE order 4330.4B guidelines. In addition, this maintenance plan identifies the actions necessary to develop a cost-effective and efficient maintenance program at B Plant/WESF. The B Plant WESF facility complex consists of three main facilities and several support structures located in the 200 East Area of the Hanford site. B Plant is a transition facility that is required to ensure safe storage and management of WESF (operating facility) cesium and strontium capsules. B Plant/WESF also contains substantial radiological inventory from previous campaigns. There are no production activities at B Plant, but several of its operating systems ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility (HRIBF) now under construction at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory will use the 25-MV tandem accelerator for the acceleration of radioactive ion beams to energies appropriate for research in nuclear physics; negative ion beams are, therefore, required for injection into the tandem accelerator. Because charge exchange is an efficient means for converting initially positive ion beams to negative ion beams, both positive and negative ion sources are viable options for use at the facility; the choice of the type of ion source will depend on the overall efficiency for generating the radioactive species of interest. A high-temperature version of the CERN-ISOLDE positive ion source has been selected and a modified version of the source designed and fabricated for initial use at the HRIBF because of its low emittance, relatively high ionization efficiencies and species versatility, and because it has been engineered for remote ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the frame of the use of the Relap5 thermal hydraulic code in the predictions of LOCA transient scenarios in PWRs and considering the recent development of a methodology to evaluate the related uncertainty, the response to a Small Break LOCA of Eastern and Western type PWRs has been analyzed. A four loop/horizontal Steam Generator WWER-1000 (KOZLODUY in Bulgaria) and a two loop/vertical U-tubes Steam Generator Westinghouse (KRSKO in Slovenia) nuclear power plants have been considered in the analysis. The reference transient is a 2% equivalent cold leg break accident, without High Pressure Injection System intervention, as specified in the frame of a ``counterpart test`` activity involving experimental tests on four Integral Test Facilities: LOBI (European Community), SPES (Italy), BETHSY (France) and LSTF (Japan). The code results in the two cases, also taking into account the related uncertainty as evaluated by means of the aforementioned methodology, are ...

Science.gov (United States)

It is possible that at some time in the future we might recreate a habitable climate on Mars

Wastenet

...Year nine students will be taught the importance of mateship in a bid to reduce risky behaviour and save lives as part of a school-based intervention program to be introduced in Queensland. 24.11.10 Safe sex saves schoolies from chlamydia The safe-sex message is failing to get ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The verification of the subcriticality is of utmost importance for the safe transportation and storage of nuclear reactor fuels. Transportation containers and storage facilities are designed such that nuclear fuels remain in a subcritical state. Such designs often involve excess conservatism because of the lack of relevant experimental data to verify the accuracy of Monte Carlo codes used in nuclear criticality safety analyses. A joint experimental research program between Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Westinghouse Safety Management Solutions, Inc., and the University of Missouri was initiated to obtain measured quantities that could be directly related to the subcriticality of simple arrays of Missouri University Research Reactor (MURR) fuel elements. A series of measurement were performed to assess the reactivity of materials such as BORAL, stainless steel, aluminum, and lead that are typically used ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Johnston Atoll (JA) is a small (270-ha), but strategic, US possession in the Pacific Ocean, which was previously used in nuclear weapons testing. Nuclear devices were launched by missile for detonations at very high altitudes. In 1962, one missile failed on the launch pad and two failed overhead. The devices were destructed without nuclear yield, but transuranium (TRU) elements were dispersed. Cleanup was swift and incomplete. A 2-ha area was placed under radiological controls and restricted from use due to residual contamination. Planning was begun in 1983 for a total JA cleanup to provide additional (unrestricted) land to meet future requirements. A TRUe soil cleanup is programmed to begin at JA in 1988 utilizing a full-scale mining plant. The plant should be able to process all contaminated soil by 1992 and produce less than #approx# 2000 m"3 of concentrated waste. This cleanup will increase the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Long-term disposal and management of low and intermediate-level radioactive waste is a major project of the nuclear power industry. Therefore, the selection of an underground waste repository has to be a geologically and seismologically stable storage. Easy transportation and emplacement is essential. The Wolsung nuclear power plant (NPP) of unit no. 1/2/ 3/ 4, which is responsible for the future of the energy industry, has already been constructed at the Wolsung site and a New NPP has recently been created at the Sinwolsung site. Radioactive waste used in the plant facilities, has piled up increasingly every year, but it should be taken to be managed at long-term underground storage disposal facilities. The Wolsung site for radioactivity waste repository was known to be relatively stable through various geological surveys, earthquakes, groundwater, engineering testing and analysis, but still more research related to the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cementitious materials have physical and chemical properties that are well suited for the requirements of radioactive waste management. Namely, the materials have low permeability and durability that is consistent with the time frame required for short-lived radionuclides to decay. Furthermore, cementitious materials can provide a long-term chemical environment that substantially reduces the mobility of some long-lived radionuclides of concern for decommissioning (e.g., C-14, Ni-63, Ni-59). Because of these properties, cementitious materials are common in low-level radioactive waste disposal facilities throughout the world and are an attractive option for entombment of nuclear facilities. This paper describes design considerations for cementitious barriers in the context of performance over time frames of a few hundreds of years (directed toward short-lived radionuclides) and time frames of thousands of years (directed towards longer-lived radionuclides). The ...

Science.gov (United States)

Timber Management by Mississippi Tree Farmer Creates Safe Harbor for Tortoises and Red-cockaded Woodpeckers I...

Science.gov (United States)

... are old enough, teach them to use the cooktop, oven, microwave, and toaster safely. Show teens how ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

On July 18, 2001, a freight train carrying hazardous (non-nuclear) materials derailed and caught fire while passing through the Howard Street railroad tunnel in downtown Baltimore, Maryland. The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USNRC), one of the agencies responsible for ensuring the safe transportation of radioactive materials in the United States, undertook an investigation of the train derailment and fire to determine the possible regulatory implications of this particular event for the transportation of spent nuclear fuel by railroad. Shortly after the accident occurred, the USNRC met with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB, the U.S. agency responsible for determining the cause of transportation accidents), to discuss the details of the accident and the ensuing fire. Following these discussions, the USNRC assembled a team of experts from the National Institute of Standards ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text: Founded in 1964, Ankara Nuclear Research and Training Center (ANRTC) conducts and facilitates the scientific activities including training (summer practice, MSc and Ph D studies in physics and chemistry, IAEA fellowship programs etc.), research and other studies in nuclear and related fields. As it's a part of main duties, ANRTC has analysis on the variety of samples, and radiation protection services commercially, for radiation workers in state, public and private sectors. Research, development and application projects implemented in this Center have mostly been supported by State Planning Organization (SPO) and Turkish Atomic Energy Authority (TAEA). In addition to the projects there are on going collaborative studies with some national Universities and International Atomic Energy Agency. The main activities carried out in ANRTC can be summarized as: studies on experimental nuclear physics, application of ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Modern nuclear spectroscopy boosts the study of the nuclear matter towards extreme conditions: large excitation energies, high spins, and new nuclear species with unusual ratio between the numbers of neutrons and protons. One of the 'exotic' nuclear regions, practically not studied until now, is the upper part of the N=Z line, from about N#approx#Z#approx#36 to Sn-100, probably the heaviest bound nucleus with N=Z. These nuclei lie close to the proton-drip line. Due to their special composition, it is expected that their study will reveal some phenomena which are less encountered in the nuclei studied till now. In particular, of outstanding interest is the fact that these are the only nuclei which may provide information on the properties of the neutron-proton pairing forces. In spite of its large interest, this nuclear region is exceedingly difficult to reach with the present ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

As the 20th century draws to a close, both individual countries and the world community face challenging problems related to the supply and use energy. These include local and regional environmental impacts, the prospect of global climate and sea level change associated with the greenhouse effect, and threats to international relations in connection with oil supply or nuclear proliferation. For developing countries, the financial cost of providing energy to provide basic needs and fuel economic development pose an additional burden. To assess the magnitude of future problems and the potential effectiveness of response strategies, it is important to understand how and why energy use has changed in the post and where it is heading. This requires study of the activities for which energy is used, and of how people and technology interact to provide the energy services that are desired. The authors and their colleagues have analyzed trends in energy ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

There are many factors contributing to the changes taking place within the electric utility industry. The environmental pressures on the industry are substantial and include the global warming issue, hazardous and nuclear waste challenges, air toxicities, and the electromagnetic field controversy. An issue of special concern is deregulation of the industry, which brought with it retail wheeling, wholesale wheeling, transmission access, and market-based pricing, all of which have greatly shaken the industry. The changes are expected to happen quickly. This is quite different from the 31 years it took to deregulate the telecommunications industry, the 15 to 20 years for railroads, the 9 years for the natural gas industry, and the 2 years for the airline industry. Historically there has been a general willingness among the utilites to share information through collaborative research. Research and development is viewed as a cost and not an investment in the electric ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report was prepared in response to a request from the Nuclear Energy Research Advisory Committee (NERAC) subcommittee on ''Long-Term Isotope Research and Production Plans.'' The NERAC subcommittee has asked for a reply to a number of questions regarding (1) ''How well does the Department of Energy (DOE) infrastructure sme the need for commercial and medical isotopes?'' and (2) ''What should be the long-term role of the federal government in providing commercial and medical isotopes?' Our report addresses the questions raised by the NERAC subcommittee, and especially the 10 issues that were raised under the first of the above questions (see Appendix). These issues are related to the isotope products offered by the DOE Isotope Production Sites, the capabilities and condition of the facilities used to produce these products, the management of the isotope production ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text: Climatic problems associated to the greenhouse effect have recently stimulated a renewed interest in nuclear energy production, and triggered new studies aimed at developing future generation systems that would address current major safety, proliferation and waste concerns. In particular a possible solution to the waste problem could come from transmutation of the highly radiotoxic nuclear waste in Accelerator Driven Systems or in Generation-IV fast nuclear reactors. The design and operation of the new systems require accurate cross-section data on a large number of isotopes, in particular plutonium, minor actinides, long-lived fission fragments and structural materials. An important contribution to the field is being provided since a few years by a new time of-flight facility operative at CERN, n_TOF. The main features of the neutron beam, in particular the wide energy spectrum, ranging from ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of the Isotopes Facilities Deactivation Project (IFDP) is to place former isotopes production facilities at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in a safe, stable, and environmentally sound condition; suitable for an extended period of minimum surveillance and maintenance (S&M) and as quickly and economical as possible. Implementation and completion of the deactivation project will further reduce the risks to the environment and to public safety and health. Furthermore, completion of the project will result in significant S&M cost savings in future years. The IFDP work plan defines the project schedule, the cost estimate, and the technical approach for the project. A companion document, the IFDP management plan, has been prepared to document the project objectives, define organizational relationships and responsibilities, and outline the management control systems to be employed in the management of the project. The project has ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A recent road test at LLNL underscored the zinc/air battery`s capacity to give electric vehicles some of the attractive features of gas-driven cars: a 400-km range between refueling, 10-minute refueling, and highway-safe acceleration. Developed at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, the battery weights only one-sixth as much as standard lead/acid batteries and occupies one-third the space, yet costs less per mile to operate. What`s more, because the battery is easily refuelable, it promises trouble-free, nearly 24-hour-a-day operation for numerous kinds of electric vehicles, from forklifts to delivery vans and possibly, one day, personal automobiles. The test of a Santa Barbara Municipal Transit bus with a hybrid of zinc/air and lead/acid batteries capped a short development period for the zinc/air battery. The test run indicated the zinc/air battery`s potential savings in vehicle weight from 5.7 to 4.0 metric tons, in battery weight from 2.0 to 0.3 metric ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A prospective pilot trial was performed in 20 patients randomised to receive either {sup 131}I-Lipiodol therapy alone (n=10) or {sup 131}I-Lipiodol combined with a short low-dose cisplatin infusion (n=10), the aim being to evaluate the possible positive influence of a radiosensitiser on toxicity and tumour response. An activity of 1,354-2,128 MBq (mean 1,824 MBq) [36.6-57.5 mCi (mean 49.3 mCi)] {sup 131}I-labelled Lipiodol was administered by selective instillation in the hepatic artery. Cisplatin was given in a dose of 30 mg/m{sup 2} at day -1 and day +6 (day 0: {sup 131}I-Lipiodol). The primary endpoint of this trial was toxicity of therapy; points of secondary interest were tumour response and survival at 6 months. With the use of cisplatin we found a higher percentage of stable or diminished tumour size (90%, vs 40% without). A benefit in group survival at 6 months was not evident. Low-grade stomatitis in one patient and minor changes in peripheral blood count were probably ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The experience base regarding fission product behavior developed during the Rover program, the nuclear rocket development program of 1955--1972, will be useful in planning a renewed nuclear rocket program. During the Rover program, 20 reactors were tested at the Nuclear Rocket Development Station in Nevada. Nineteen of these discharged effluent directly into the atmosphere; the last reactor tested, a non-flight-prototypic, fuel-element-testing reactor called the Nuclear Furnace (NF-1) was connected to an effluent cleanup system that removed fission products before the hydrogen coolant (propellant) was discharged to the atmosphere. In general, we are able to increase both test duration and fuel temperature during the test series. Therefore fission product data from the later part of the program are more interesting and more applicable to future reactors. We have collected fission ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Consistent application of a newly developed coincidence technique to determine activation products in the operation and demolition of nuclear facilities results in very new perspectives in contamination monitoring and clearance measurement of plant components. In particular, it is possible to avoid the critical spread of point-source Co-60 contamination, the so-called hot particles. The CCM (Cobalt Coincidence Measurement) technique includes the coincident detection of prompt-prompt gamma cascades with "6"0Co and other activation products ("1"1"0"mAg, "1"2"4Sb, "2"2Na) with low mass-specific limits for unrestricted clearance. Special features of the technique are the short measurement times, excellent signal-to-noise ratio, and focusing in space achieved. Compared to conventional integral gamma-measurements, the signal-to-background ratio can be improved by 1-2 orders of magnitude. The method can be employed especially where conventional integral or spectroscopic ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

According to the Romanian Nuclear Strategy, the third and fourth units of the Cernavoda NPP will be commissioned by 2015. Improvements in operation and safety are expected to be applied for these CANDU-6 based units. On the other side, the need for innovation determined AECL to promote the ACR -1000 - an evolutionary Generation III+ power reactor design and a necessary step towards Generation IV inherently safe nuclear energy systems. CANDU-6 is recognized for having two independent fully capable shutdown systems. ACR-1000 also benefits for this strong safety feature. Two major achievements i.e. using of light water as coolant and using Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) as fuel in a compact heavy water moderated lattice allowed the obtaining of a slightly negative Coolant Void Reactivity (CVR) for the first time in a CANDU-type reactor. The main goal of the paper is to compare the response of SDS1 action during some LOCAs supposed ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This third Missouri River Basin Commission report on Status of Electric Power in the Missouri River Basin provides information on the status of electric power generation, future needs, and potentials for meeting these needs. Information for this 1980 update is based upon available published information up to and including December 31, 1979. State and federal members of the Missouri River Basin Commission provided information for sections of the report and on legislative activities. Information is included on the planning and projected costs of hydro, nuclear and fossil-fuel power plants, pumped-storage plants, transmission systems, projected power demands, the environmental, socio-economic-cultural impacts of electric power generation, and regulations affecting energy development. (LCL)

CERN Document Server

It is a pity that the real state of matter in pulsar-like stars is still not determined confidently because of the uncertainty about cold matter at supranuclear density, even 40 years after the discovery of pulsar. Nuclear matter (related to neutron stars) is one of the speculations for the inner constitution of pulsars even from the Landau's time more than 70 years ago, but quark matter (related to quark stars) is an alternative due to the fact of asymptotic freedom of interaction between quarks as the standard model of particle physics develops since 1960s. Therefore, one has to focus on astrophysical observations in order to answer what the nature of pulsars is. In this presentation, I would like to summarize possible observational evidence/hints that pulsar-like stars could be quark stars, and to address achievable clear evidence for quark stars in the future experiments.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sizewell B is Nuclear Electric's latest power station, and the Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) design on which it is based represents a ''first'' for the UK. One of the integral components of the plant is the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system, which performs a contamination control and gaseous waste management function for the site. During the commissioning of Sizewell B Power Station the extract systems of the HVAC plant underwent a procedure known as ''fingerprinting''. This entailed the characterisation of the facilities provided to test the filtration plant during its lifetime. The assessment of their adequacy was then used to identify necessary modifications and/or to propose the manner in which future in situ performance testing would be carried out. The paper outlines the basic principles and procedure that was used to ''fingerprint'' test systems during the commissioning of Sizewell B. A specific example is ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Research conducted at Brookhaven National Laboratory under the Coastal Meteorology and Diffusion Research Program from 1972 to 1983 is summarized by the following study areas: Diffusion Studies, Boundary Layer Studies, Coastal Meteorology Studies, Air-Sea Interaction Studies, Coastal Transport and Diffusion Climatology, Seabreeze Modeling and Instrument Development, all supported by the US Department of Energy. Studies supported by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the National Science Foundation and the American Petroleum Institute are also described. A summary of a Workshop on Coastal Atmospheric Transport Processes, an account of studies in progress, recommendations for future research and a description of facilities and instrumentation available are also included. A list of all publications and presentations prepared as part of the program is given with abstracts. 7 figures, 1 table.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The saturation of South Korea's at-reactor (AR) spent fuel storage pools will create a necessity for additional spent fuel storage capacity. Because the South Korean government has the plan to increase the number of nuclear power plants from 20 units (end of 2005) to 27 units by 2015, the increase of spent nuclear fuel generation will be accelerated. Because there is no clear national plan for spent nuclear fuel storage and disposal, the utility company (Korea Hydraulic Nuclear Power company) is planning to construct a spent fuel storage facility with 11 000 tHM capacity for Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR). This study is intended to predict the maximum allowable periods when the storage facility will be fully occupied with respect to the already fixed re-racking plan of spent fuel storage pools and construction of new nuclear power plants. The result from this study will be used as ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lithium isotopes are used as the raw material of tritium which is the fuel for fusion power generation and the material for fusion reactors, accordingly those are indispensable for future nuclear fusion power generation. As for boron isotopes, the neutron absorption corss section is very large, therefore, they are used for shielding neutrons and controlling fast neutron reactors. In order to further develop the utilization of nuclear power, it is important to develop the technology for separating and refining light element isotopes in large amount. In fiscal year 1995, the relation of the ion sieve characteristics of inorganic ion exchanger and the behavior of lithium isotope separation was examined. The behavior of forming boron complex of polyol amine was examined by B-11 NMR. These experiments and the results are reported. It was shown to be feasible that lithium is adsorbed from seawater, and isotopes are concentrated. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This Progress Report describes the operation of the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF) and the research programs carried out there for the years 1992 and 1993. The accelerator operated for over 100 days in 1992, providing beams of H{sup +}, H{sup {minus}}, and polarized H{sup {minus}} for a rich and varied research program in nuclear physics. The accelerator had only fair beam availability in 1992 (for example, the average H{sup +} beam availability was 72%), caused largely by problems in the 201-MHz rf system. A major effort was expended to address these problems before the 1993 run. These efforts were rewarded by good beam availability in 1993 and few problems with the 201-MHz system. LAMPF operated remarkably smoothly during 1993, in the midst of a period of great uncertainty in the future of the facility and the downsizing of MP Division, which led to the loss of a large number of key people to positions elsewhere in the Laboratory. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Extra-terrestrial exploration and development missions of the next century will require reliable, low-mass power generation modules of 100 kW_e and more. These modules will be required to support both fixed-base and manned rover/explorer power needs. Low insolation levels at and beyond Mars and long periods of darkness on the moon make solar conversion less desirable for surface missions. For these missions, a closed Brayton cycle energy conversion system coupled with a reactor heat source is a very attractive approach. The authors conducted parametric studies to assess optimized system design trends for nuclear-Brayton systems as a function of operating environment and user requirements. The inherent design flexibility of the closed Brayton cycle energy conversion system permits ready adaptation of the system to future design constraints. This paper describes a dramatic contrast between system designs requiring man-rated shielding. The paper ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper summarizes the results obtained in two interview studies conducted in the communities of Storuman and Malaa in northern Sweden, 1995 and 1997. It highlights the similarities and differences with respect to the public participation and decision processes which preceded the respective referenda in the two communities. The presentation includes the arguments used by proponents and opponents, the changes over time, as well as the time frame and the information involved in the processes. It is concluded e.g. that local cultures, life-styles, knowledge of similar events, and the time for and management of the participation process are important and salient factors in the resulting social dynamics. Factors of possibly more fundamental importance were also discerned, however, including overall attitude to and valuation of nuclear power, perceptions of development, solidarity, power and power distribution in relation to current as well as ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This publication provides a broad overview of the research programs and efforts being conducted, built, designed, and planned at Brookhaven National Laboratory. This work covers a broad range of scientific disciplines. Major facilities include the Alternating Gradient Synchrotron (AGS), with its newly completed booster, the National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS), the High Flux Beam Reactor (HFBR), and the RHIC, which is under construction. Departments within the laboratory include the AGS department, accelerator development, physics, chemistry, biology, NSLS, medical, nuclear energy, and interdepartmental research efforts. Research ranges from the pure sciences, in nuclear physics and high energy physics as one example, to environmental work in applied science to study climatic effects, from efforts in biology which are a component of the human genome project to the study, production, and characterization of new materials. The paper provides ...

CERN Document Server

Antideuterons are among the most promising galactic cosmic ray-related targets for dark matter indirect detection. Currently only upper limits exist on the flux, but the development of new experiments, such as GAPS and AMS-02, provides exciting perspectives for a positive measurement in the near future. In this Paper, we present a novel and updated calculation of both the secondary and primary antideuteron fluxes. We employ a two-zone diffusion model which successfully reproduces cosmic-ray nuclear data and the observed antiproton flux. We review the nuclear and astrophysical uncertainties and provide an up to date secondary (i.e. background) antideuteron flux. The primary (i.e. signal) contribution is calculated for generic WIMPs annihilating in the galactic halo: we explicitly consider and quantify the various sources of uncertainty in the theoretical evaluations. Propagation uncertainties, as is the case of antiprotons, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Short communication.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text: Research reactors have been playing a multi dimensional role in areas of nuclear fuel cycle programme, radio-isotope productions, neutron beam research etc. To ensure an efficient, smooth and safe operation of a nuclear research reactor, many reactor physics evaluations are required on routine basis. As part of reactor core management the important activities are maintaining core reactivity status, core power distribution, xenon estimations, safety evaluation of in-pile irradiation samples and experimental assemblies and assessment of nuclear safety in fuel handling/storage. In-pile irradiation requires a prior estimation of the reactivity load due to the sample, heating rate and the activity developed in it during irradiation. For the safety of the personnel handling irradiated samples the dose rate at the surface of shielded flask housing the irradiated sample should be less than 200 mR/Hr. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The IAEA has requested several member states to present their proposal of the application of the Integrated Safeguards (IS) system in their nuclear facilities. This report contains a IS proposal for Finland prepared under the Task FIN C 1264 of The Finnish Support Programme to IAEA Safeguards. The comprehensive safeguards system of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been one of the main tools in the fight against nuclear proliferation since the entry-into-force of the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty three decades ago. In the 1990s some of the inherent weaknesses of this so-called traditional safeguards system were revealed first in Iraq and then in North Korea. Therefore, the member states of the LAEA decided to give the Agency additional legal authority in order to make its control system more effective as well as more efficient than before. This was accomplished by the approval of the so-called Model ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In cooperation with NRPB, the specifications of the mainframe COSYMA version 95/1 and the PC COSYMA version 2.0 were prepared and the corresponding modifications implemented. Important improvements are dose-rate dependent models for deterministic health effects, the time dependent efficiency of stable iodine tablets, the extension of data bases for the inclusion of activation products, and supplementary evaluation programs. PC COSYMA has been completed by an economics module, further options in the ingestion pathways, and a graphics package for presenting assessment results. COSYMA has been applied for probabilistic dose assessments within paramter studies and special investigations of EPR concepts. RODOS, the real-time on-line decision support system for nuclear emergency management, has been further developed with the aim of the first pilot version 2.0 for pre-operational application in the second half of 1995. At present, some 20 institutes in the EU, 8 ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Taking into consideration India's limited reserves of natural and vast reserves of thorium, the fast reactor route holds a great promise for India's energy supply in future. The fast reactor fueled with "2"3"9Pu/"2"3"8U (unused or depleted) produces (breeds) more fissionable fuel material "2"3"9Pu than it consumes. Calculations show that a fast breeder reactor (FBR) increases energy potential of natural uranium by about 60 times. As the fast reactor can also convert "2"3"2Th into "2"3"3U which is a fissionable material, it can make India's thorium reserves a source of almost inexhaustible energy supply for a long time to come. Significant advantage of FBR plants cooled by sodium and their world-wide operating experience are reviewed. There are two main safety issues of FBR, one nuclear and the other non-nuclear. The nuclear issue concerns core disruptive accident and the non-nuclear ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The next great issue on the Russian landscape will be management of its foreign debt. In the near future the United States will be called upon to lead an international program of debt restructuring to assist Russia in overcoming the burden of its debt trap. With debt service obligations equal to 50{percent} of 1999 revenues, Russia has virtually no chance of sustaining a program of economic recovery without debt relief (Hardt, 1999). With some form of debt restructuring a foregone conclusion, Russia, the United States, and world community have a vital stake in searching for creative ways to transform the inevitability of debt restructuring into something of value and constructive to Russia and the problems it faces. This was the rationale behind debt-for-nature swaps which emerged in the early 1980s in Latin American and Eastern Europe as a means of relieving developing nations of their crippling foreign debt. Debt-for-nature swaps served both domestic and ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundBlindness due to trachoma is avoidable through Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial hygiene and Environmental improvements (SAFE). Recent surveys have shown trachoma to be a serious...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ABSTRACTQUESTION Montelukast is used more and more by my patients with asthma. Is it safe to use during pregnancy?ANSWER Cumulative data, including a...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Oct 30, 2009... of Belgian sheepherding dogs that are popular with the police and military. ... "She was a hard-working K-9 and she will be missed." ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

A number of biological agents are available or being investigated for the treatment of asthma and rhinitis. The safety profiles of these biologic agents, which may modify allergic and immunological...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

The document presented defines the plan to be used to coordinate the preparation, review, approval, and issuance of the operating procedure documents required to ensure safe and efficient operation of FFTF.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Background:Since first reported in 1996, endoscopic minimally invasive surgery of the cervical region has been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of benign thyroid and...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The Belgian radioactive waste management agency NIRAS/ONDRAF has undertaken a comparative assessment study on long-term waste management options for the high-level and/or long-lived radioactive waste that should be managed as a result of the use of nuclear energy in Belgium. This study is one of the supportive documents to a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) process initiated end of 2008 and geared towards a decision in principle by the Belgian Government in 2010 on the long-term management of such radioactive waste. NIRAS/ONDRAF, together with Belgian and international research organisations, has developed a reference option for such high-level and long-lived radioactive waste, called Category B and C Waste, consisting of the disposal of such waste in a clay formation [SAFIR-2]. More than 30 years of R and D have been undertaken resulting, among others, in the underground research facility HADES, though the decision in principle by government, supported by ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility now under construction at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory will use the 25 MV tandem accelerator for the acceleration of radioactive ion beams to energies appropriate for research in nuclear physics; negative ion beams are, therefore, required for injection into the tandem accelerator. Because charge exchange is an efficient means for converting initially positive ion beams to negative ion beams, both positive and negative ion sources are viable options for use at the facility. The choice of the type of ion source will depend on the overall efficiency for generating the radioactive species of interest. Although direct-extraction negative ion sources are clearly desirable, the ion formation efficiencies are often too low for practical consideration; for this situation, positive ion sources, in combination with charge exchange, are the logical choice. The high-temperature version of the CERN-ISOLDE positive ion source has ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This Maintenance Implementation plan has been developed for Pacific Northwest Laboratory's (PNL) Nuclear Facilities: 306W, 324, 325, 327 and 329NMF. It is based on a graded approach, self-assessment of the existing maintenance program(s) per the requirements specified by US Department of Energy (DOE) Order 4330.4A, Chapter II, Change {number sign}3. The results of this assessment were evaluated to determine needed improvements in PNL Craft Services' current maintenance program. The objective of this implementation plan is to provide baseline information for compliance to the DOE 4330.4A, and for needed improvements. The prime consideration in applying a graded approach to the Order has been to maintain safe and reliable operations, environmental compliance, safeguards and security, programmatic mission, facility preservation, and/or other facility-specific requirements. Using the results of the self-assessment, PNL has ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Radioactive waste has been stored in large underground storage tanks at the Hanford Site since 1944. Approximately 212 million liters of waste containing approximately 240,000 metric tons of processed chemicals and 177 mega-curies of radionuclides are now stored in 177 tanks. These caustic wastes are in the form of liquids, slurries, saltcakes, and sludge. In 1991, the Tank Waste Remediation System (TWRS) Program was established to manage, retrieve, treat, immobilize, and dispose of these wastes in a safe, environmentally sound, and cost-effective manner. The Department of Energy (DOE) has believes that it is feasible to privatize portions of the TWRS Program. Under the privatization strategy embodied in the Request for Proposal (RFP), DOE will purchase services from a contractor-owned, contractor-operated facility under a fixed-price contract. Phase I of the TWRS privatization strategy is a proof-of-concept/commercial demonstration-scale effort. The objectives of ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Most countries have taken the vitrification route for managing High Level Waste (HLW). Depending on composition of site-specific HLW, suitable glass forming oxides are added to it in a melting furnace designed for converting the mixture to a matrix of borosilicate glass. After thorough homogenization, the product is poured into stainless steel canisters as an inert solidified form. Canisters are seal welded and 2-3 such containers are then packed and sealed in another bigger container for providing an additional engineered barrier. This product form is considered safe for long-term storage. The concurrent vitrification technologies employ either induction-heated metallic melters or joule-heated direct resistance-heated ceramic melters. In India, both technologies have been adopted. While older facilities in Trombay and Tarapur employ metallic melters, a retrofitted facility at Tarapur and the new plant at Kalpakkam are based on ceramic melter operations. Compared ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Background and purpose: the recent RTOG guidelines for future clinical developments in gynecologic malignancies included the investigation of dose escalation in the paraaortic (PO) region which is, however, very difficult to target due to the presence of critical organs such as kidneys, liver, spinal cord, and digestive structures. The aim of this study was to investigate intensity-modulated radiotherapy's (IMRT) possibilities of either increasing, in a safe way, the dose to 50-60 Gy in case of macroscopic disease or decreasing the dose to organs at risk (OR) when treatment is given in an adjuvant setting. Material and methods: the dosimetric charts of 14 patients irradiated to the PO region at the department of radiation oncology, university hospital of Liege, Belgium, in 2000 were analyzed in order to compare six-field conformal external-beam radio-therapy (CEBR) and five-beam IMRT approaches. Both CEBR and IMRT investigations were ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document gathers the available presentations (articles and transparencies) given at this annual meeting, the 2007 topic of which was the technological, geopolitical, economical, environmental, societal and development stakes of energy. 1 - technological stakes - which energies for the future: new energies, illusion or solution of the future; the Lorraine region, an energy land: strategies and stakes for a sustainable development; from China to Brazil: understanding the nuclear energy revival; hydroelectric power: renewable and sustainable energy; renewable energies and environment protection: the contribution of biofuels; wind power in Germany between success and contestation; 2 - geopolitical stakes - energy levier of power: the Gulf of Guinea hydrocarbons: between development and geopolitics; the complex evaluation of resources and reserves between technology, market and geopolitics; the new Bakou-Tbilissi-Ceyhan ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Economic and safe operation of nuclear power plants requires reliable steam turbines with high efficiencies. The progress in flow mechanics achieved over the past few years has allowed the use of powerful methods of flow calculation in developments of new blading with greatly enhanced efficiencies. Thanks to the latest manufacturing techniques, the newly developed blading systems can be produced at low cost. Next to progress in flow mechanics, also the broadbased use of advanced finite-element calculations resulted in a more thorough grasp of the many problems associated with structural mechanics assessment of steam turbine components. The theoretical methods have been supplemented by comprehensive efforts in fracture mechanics and experimental materials studies, thus helping to create a reliable knowledge base which will help to avoid the dreaded stress corrosion cracking phenomenon, in components of steam turbines. The measures introduced to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Technical Safety Requirements (TSRs) for the Cold Vacuum Drying Facility define acceptable conditions, safe boundaries, bases thereof, and management or administrative controls required to ensure safe operation. Controls required for public safety, significant defense-in-depth, significant worker safety, and for maintaining radiological and toxicological consequences below risk evaluation guidelines are included.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The AVR experimental nuclear reactor was Professor Dr. Rudolf Schulten's brainchild. Visionary ideas led to the success of this technology: - Helium coolant because of the particularly high heat transfer coefficients; - an integrated primary system reactor concept as the basis of all safety considerations in the interest of maximum safety; - uranium-235 and thorium-232 fuel allowing new fuel to be bred; - high temperatures for electricity generation at maximum thermodynamic efficiencies, i.e. optimum fuel utilization; - the possibility to run chemical processes economically at high temperatures by means of nuclear fuels; - the inherent safety of the reactor, for a major accident accompanied by a complete loss of cooling cannot occur for nuclear physics reasons, as was tested twice in the AVR. The AVR attained its first criticality on August 28, 1968. It was operated for more than 20 years, until December 31, 1988, at ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A major focus of the National Nuclear Security Administration-led Next Generation Safeguards Initiative (NGSI) is the development of human capital to meet present and future challenges to the safeguards regime. An effective university-level education in safeguards and related disciplines is an essential element in a layered strategy to rebuild the safeguards human resource capacity. NNSA launched two pilot programs in 2008 to develop university level courses and internships in association with James, Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) at the Monterey Institute of International Studies (MIIS) and Texas A&M University (TAMU). These pilot efforts involved 44 students in total and were closely linked to hands-on internships at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). The Safeguards and Nuclear Material Management pilot program was a collaboration between ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Construction and commissioning period of NPP are reduced world over drastically by stringent schedule for financial and economic reasons. For meeting the schedule, commissioning of components and systems are started immediate after installation, while construction activities are continued in parallel at the same place. Parallel activities' and 'Time Constraint' have brought new challenges to 'Management of Fire and Industrial Safely' during commissioning. An innovative approach was used during such phase of commissioning of TAPP-3 and 4. This paper outlines challenges encountered during this phase and special approach and measures used to meet those challenges. This paper also outlines problems encountered during implementation of these measures and subsequent change in approach to ensure smooth and safe execution of activities. Primarily, challenges were conflicting requirements by various agencies to carryout commissioning in parallel with ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Our global impact is finally receiving the scientific attention it deserves. The outcome will largely determine the future course of evolution. Human-modified ecosystems are shaped by our activities...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

... 13BRL I COMBUSTIBLE CARTRIDGE CASES: CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS FW ROBBINS J. W. COLB3URN DI ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Protecting sensitive items from undetected tampering in an unattended environment is crucial to the success of non-proliferation efforts relying on the verification of critical activities. Tamper Indicating Packaging (TIP) technologies are applied to containers, packages, and equipment that require an indication of a tamper attempt. Examples include: the transportation and storage of nuclear material, the operation and shipment of surveillance equipment and monitoring sensors, and the retail storage of medicine and food products. The spectrum of adversarial tampering ranges from attempted concealment of a pin-hole sized penetration to the complete container replacement, which would involve counterfeiting efforts of various degrees. Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) has developed a technology base for advanced TIP materials, sensors, designs, and processes which can be adapted to various future monitoring systems. The purpose of this technology ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This work, carried out by the parliamentary office for the evaluation of scientific and technological choices on request of the French National Assembly and Senate, takes stock of the present day situation and technical perspectives of development of renewable energy sources and of research needs of the French industry in this domain: 1 - renewable energies: key-technologies for the energy supply of developing countries and for a rational consumption in transportation systems and accommodations of developed countries (energies technically different from fossil or nuclear energies; fundamental energy sources for a developing world; different national goals in Europe depending on the available natural resources and on the political realities; a minor interest in France for the domestic power generation but a major interest for transports, residential and tertiary sectors and export); 2 - priority choices given to the French renewable energy resources: renewable ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In 1970, the Federal Power Commission predicted a fall from 46% to 27% in 1990 as a result of predicted increases in the use of nuclear power. Today, the Department of Energy expects coal to supply about 50% of electricity generation in 1990. About one-eighth of the world's annual hard coal production is used to make electricity in the United States. Power stations in the country used more coal in 1979 than was produced in the whole Western Europe that year. These 405,000,000 tons of coal equivalent were burned in 1257 individual utilities with an aggregate capacity of 235,000 megawatts. There are coal-fired power plants in 43 of the 50 states. Four factors will be most important in shaping the future development of coal-based electricity: prices, conservation, environmental regulations, and national security. The price differential between coal and oil has now reached a level where it is much more economic for a United States electric ...

CERN Document Server

This dissertation describes the evaluation of many-pixel Cadmium-Zinc-Telluride (CdZnTe) hard-X-ray detectors for future use with the High Energy Replicated Optics (HERO) telescope being developed at Marshall Space Flight Center. The detector requirements for the HERO application are good energy resolution (sufficient to resolve cyclotron features and nuclear lines), spatial resolution of ∼200 μm, minimal charge loss of absorbed X rays, and minimal sensitivity to the background environment. This research concentrates on assessing the suitability of these detectors for the focus of HERO, and includes the development of a simulation of the physics involved in an X-ray-detector interaction, a study of the intrinsic material properties, measurements with prototype detectors such as the energy and spatial resolution, charge loss, and X-ray background reduction through 3-dimensional depth sensing. Two types of detectors were available ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) will be a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national center for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) and other research into the physics of high temperatures and high densities, and a vital element of the DOE`s nuclear weapons Stockpile Stewardship and Management Program. It will be used by scientists from a numerous different institutions and disciplines to support research advancements in national security, energy, basic science, and economic development. Multiple powerful laser beams will `ignite` small fusion targets, helping liberate more energy than is required to initiate the fusion reactions. This paper discusses the Design for Environment process for NIF, some of the subsequent activities resulting from the initial study, and a few of the lessons learned from this process. Subsequent activities include the development of a Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization Plan (P2/WMin) for the facility, which includes Pollution ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The authors present tensile data and creep-rupture data out to approximately 40,000 h duration on low-carbon Alloy 800. Each of the four casts was heat treated to three conditions in tube form. When the test programme was originally conceived, the prime object was to obtain 100,000 hour design data; the programme was designed prior to some of the more recently discovered effects such as that of #gamma#' on ductility. Therefore no specific attempt was made to control to a low level, the Al and Ti contents of the casts. A subsequent programme was embarked upon in 1976 where these factors were taken into account. The bulk data obtained show many characteristics which are probably typical of the low-carbon variant of this material and both the quantity and duration of the data are a contribution to the knowledge of the long-term behaviour of this class of alloy, whose future use lies, inter alia, in nuclear applications over the temperature range ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

To seek for a promising concept of a heavy liquid metal coolant (HLMC) fast reactor plant, Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Institute and the electric utilities conducted conceptual design study on various types of plant concepts and compared these concepts based on technical feasibility and economical perspective. A comparative design study is performed on Lead-Bismuth cooled reactors with forced and natural convection cooling. Eliminating an intermediate cooling system makes the heat transport system simple and can decrease the amount of the weight of NSSS. Based on the estimation of the amount materials, the plant internal load etc., a construction cost of these plants are evaluated approximately 2/3 times of that of LWRs at present. And, the nitride fuel makes breeding ratio of 1.2 with 150 GWd/t of burnup. The results of unprotected event analyses such as UTOP and ULOF show that both of concepts have possible features to withstand unprotected events due to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

CANDU reactors developed under Canadian licensing regulations that placed the primary responsibility for safety on the licensee. The Atomic Energy Control Board (AECB), Canada's nuclear regulatory agency, state in their regulations what is expected in terms of safety performance so that designers are free to propose the best means of meeting this performance. This goal-oriented approach, besides encouraging innovation, allowed CANDU to be licensed in other jurisdictions. The latest design - the large, single unit, CANDU 9 - explicitly incorporates licensability in Canada through a formal AECB review of the design; lessons learned from licensing CANDU 6 in Asian countries, particularly with Wolsong 2, 3 and 4 in Korea, and more recently with Qinshan in China; utility requirements for modem evolutionary plants; and emerging international standards for safety, sponsored or issued by the IAEA. By combining the assurance of acceptability in Canada with ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The collaboration between the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the National Bureau of Standards (NBS), started in 1979, has led to the development of an advanced c-w microtron accelerator design. The four 2380-MHz NBS accelerating structures, containing a total of 184 accelerating cavities, have been fabricated and delivered. New fabrication methods, coupled with refinements of hydrogen-furnace brazing techniques described in this paper, allow efficient production of side-coupled structures. Success with the NBS RTM led to Los Alamos efforts on similar 2450-MHz accelerators for the microtron accelerator operated by the Nuclear Physics Department of the University of Illinois. Two accelerators (each with 17 cavities) have been fabricated; in 1986, a 45-cavity accelerator is being fabricated by private industry with some assistance from Los Alamos. Further private industry experience and refinement of the described fabrication techniques may allow ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The study had three objectives: to collect information that explain the impact of the Aube storage center (C.S.A.) on environment and allow to evaluate the consequences for man, secondly, to build a referential for any future inquiry or follow-up, thirdly, to allow to the local commission of information to elaborate an information towards the side residents and local actors that take into account their questions. Trees, waters, sediments, soils, grass, products of gardens and vineyards were the object of sampling, their dosimetry is given in this report. Other dosimetry measures were made along the nuclear site and the results are equally in this report. (N.C.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

... radiations isotopes magnetic moments nuclear cascades nuclear properties

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Except nuclear industry, diverse structures (hospitals, of research or manufacturers) can have appeal to the use of radioisotopes conditioned under unsealed shape. Such practices lead to tolerate releases in environment in the respect of a statutory device. So the collective network can contain radioisotopes the future of which is going to depend partially on the cleaning applied to waste water. This study through the analysis of a concrete case, has for objective to inform about the future of gamma radioelements present in waste water treated by a wastewater treatment plant. The contamination of the network is essentially due to Tc{sup 99} and I{sup 131}, radioelements present whatever the working day and the hour considered. The total estimated in-load for a day is important, of the order of 4000 MBq for Tc{sup 99} and 15 to 300 MBq for I{sup 131}. The assessment of cleaning of the station shows that this one plays a role ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In Europe, MOX fuel has been supplied by AREVA for more than 30 years, to 36 reactors: 21 in France, 10 in Germany, 3 in Switzerland, 2 in Belgium. For the present and future, recycling is compulsory in the frame of sustainable development of nuclear energy. By 2030 the overall volume of used fuel will reach about 400 000 t worldwide. Their plutonium and uranium content represents a huge resource of energy to recycle. That is the reason why, the European Utilities issued an EUR (European Utilities Requirement) demanding new builds reactors to be able of using MOX Fuel Assemblies in up to 50 % of the core. AREVA GEN3+ reactors, like EPR"T"M or ATMEA"T"M designed with MHI partnership, are designed to answer any utility need of MOX recycling. The example of the EPR"T"M reactor operated with 100 % MOX core optimized for MOX recycling will be presented. A standard EPR"T"M can be operated with 100 % MOX core using an advanced homogeneous MOX (single ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) describes the development and application of a methodology to systematically and quantitatively assess predictive uncertainty in groundwater flow and transport modeling that considers the combined impact of hydrogeologic uncertainties associated with the conceptual-mathematical basis of a model, model parameters, and the scenario to which the model is applied. The methodology is based on a n extension of a Maximum Likelihood implementation of Bayesian Model Averaging. Model uncertainty is represented by postulating a discrete set of alternative conceptual models for a site with associated prior model probabilities that reflect a belief about the relative plausibility of each model based on its apparent consistency with available knowledge and data. Posterior model probabilities are computed and parameter uncertainty is estimated by calibrating each model to observed system behavior; prior parameter estimates ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Data on French nuclear electricity generation sites, nuclear power plant operations personnel, operation simulators, nuclear training centers and training statistics are presented.

ScienceCinema

...english ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Discusses alternative futures for distributing future personal computers, via data communications networks. The author scans and extrapolates some of the advances for impacting the emerging future of information utilities now sprouting up thoroughout the world. In particular he looks at the future of personal computers in the field of artificial intelligence,, for expert knowledge-based systems.

Science.gov (United States)