23.04.2013 Views

Management of Commercially Generated Radioactive Waste - U.S. ...

Management of Commercially Generated Radioactive Waste - U.S. ...

Management of Commercially Generated Radioactive Waste - U.S. ...

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

Draft p. 3.9.11<br />

Issue<br />

399.<br />

ALTERNATIVE DISPOSAL CONCEPTS -.<br />

It appears that the concern expressed over escape <strong>of</strong> 4 C from a geologic repository<br />

at some time in the "distant future" is more qualitative than quantitative. The basis for<br />

such concern should be qualified in relationship to natural 14C background, including<br />

consideration <strong>of</strong> half-life, isotopic dilution, and biological uptake. It would appear that<br />

disposal options affording isotopic dilution (e.g., seabed sediments) would warrant more<br />

serious consideration than space dipsosal.. (58)<br />

Response<br />

The consequences <strong>of</strong> C 1 release are treated in Section 4.7.2.3 <strong>of</strong> the final State-<br />

ment, Radiological Effects <strong>of</strong> Reprocessing Fuel Cycle <strong>Waste</strong> <strong>Management</strong>. Since the popula-<br />

tion exposure appears relatively minimal, a more detailed treatment does not appear<br />

warranted.<br />

Draft p. 3.9.19<br />

Issue<br />

Since the actinide recycle gives higher neutron activities, it would appear to create<br />

more problems than it solves. (35)<br />

Response<br />

It was pointed out in the Statement that the enhanced neutron activity in recycled<br />

actinides does exist and could be a problem. Whether it creates more problems than it<br />

solves would need to be analyzed in greater depth.<br />

Draft p. 1.30<br />

Issue<br />

Space Disposal<br />

Leaving the waste in a solar orbit or disposing <strong>of</strong> it on the moon still leaves the<br />

waste available for future exposure to man. Would not direct injection into the sun be<br />

preferable? (218-DOI)<br />

Response<br />

Although it would be technicaly feasible to inject the waste into the Sun, this is not<br />

possible with present launch vehicles. Alternatively, indirect flight to the Sun from the

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!