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In-situ disposal of concrete wastes at UK nuclear sites.

Project Leads

Project Objectives

  • Characterise the composition of crushed concrete wastes (CCW) produced at UK nuclear sites during decommissioning.
  • Determine the potential release of 137Cs from contaminated CCW using laboratory leaching experiments.
  • Investigate the extent of CO2 capture expected during the weathering of CCW during disposal.

Summary of the project

Full title: In-situ disposal of radionuclide contaminated concrete during nuclear decommissioning 

Offsite disposal of cementitious waste is incompatible with the UK waste strategy, is very costly, and delivers little environmental benefit. This project will therefore help underpin future reuse of construction and demolition wastes at nuclear sites in landscaping and void filling. The work will also explore the realisation of other associated complex value outcomes, such as the quantification of the rate and extent of CO2 capture occurring during CCW carbonation reactions after disposal.

Specifically, this project will use laboratory experiments to investigate the potential for release of the long-lived radionuclide 137Cs from samples of radionuclide-contaminated CCW produced during the decommissioning of a UK nuclear reactor. Additionally, using uncontaminated analogues, the student will determine the chemical and mineral composition of the CCW and quantify the amount of carbonation (CO2 uptake) that occurs in different disposal scenarios, as well as whether the carbonation is likely to enhance or reduce radionuclide leaching.

The project will therefore provide training in skills spanning the boundaries of waste management, environmental geochemistry, and radionuclide behaviour, which are essential for managing our contaminated nuclear legacy. There is an ongoing skills shortage in the sector, especially for people with experience in handling radioactive materials. The project will develop high-level experimental and synthesis skills to tackle the defined scope of this project. Specifically, the student will develop an understanding of contaminated ground and on-site waste management relevant to nuclear decommissioning, as well as skills in using laboratory data to underpin science-led decision-making.

Project outcomes

The work will specifically determine if the disposal of radionuclide-contaminated CCW at nuclear sites is likely to release contaminated leachates into nearby sub-surface environments. Therefore, the results will help determine if in situ disposals can meet strict regulatory standards, and, if other associated benefits such CO2 capture can be realised and quantified. The student will also develop a range of skills in waste characterisation, geochemistry and radiochemistry that are highly sought after by employers in the nuclear industry.

For more information, please contact Prof Ian Burke at [email protected].

The project will sit within the School of Earth and Environment.

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