Title: Potential for British research into the transmutation of radioactive wastes and problematic nuclear materials

Authors: W.J. Nuttall, D.G. Ireland, J.S. Al-Khalili, W. Gelletly

Addresses: Judge Institute of Management, Cambridge University, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1AG, UK. ' Department of Physics and Astronomy, University Avenue, Glasgow University, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK. ' Department of Physics, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK. ' Department of Physics, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK

Abstract: Issues concerning the management of the UK|s official radioactive wastes and associated surplus radioactive materials are summarised. The potential for partitioning and transmutation (P&T) of these materials is considered and associated potential developments discussed. The paper recommends international P&T research as part of a move to reduce the volume of nuclear waste. This reduction would be beneficial in addressing security and environmental concerns, as well as improving public acceptance of the back-end of the nuclear fuel cycle.

Keywords: UK nuclear waste management; partitioning; transmutation; nuclear fuel cycle; radioactive waste; critical infrastructures; nuclear energy; security; safety; environmental impact.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCIS.2005.006682

International Journal of Critical Infrastructures, 2005 Vol.1 No.4, pp.380 - 393

Published online: 01 Apr 2005 *

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