UK processes first can of highly reactive plutonium for permanent disposal

PLUTONIUM has safely been stabilised and prepared for permanent disposal by the UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), marking a milestone in efforts to manage the country’s nuclear legacy.

The material is part of a stockpile of around 140 t of plutonium dioxide stored at the Sellafield nuclear site in Cumbria – the largest such stockpile in the world. The plutonium, a byproduct of irradiated uranium from historic reprocessing activities, has been held at the site for decades.

The NDA plans to process approximately 400 cans of plutonium into stable waste for eventual disposal in a future Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) at Sellafield.

David Peattie, NDA Group CEO, said: “Tackling the UK’s plutonium challenge will remain a top priority for the NDA group for decades and with the support of the government’s significant investment in this mission, we’re proud to be leading the way in making the UK safer for generations to come.”

Packaged plutonium

Plutonium at Sellafield was originally retained for potential reuse as nuclear fuel. Earlier this year, however, the government confirmed that reuse would no longer be pursued, opting instead for permanent disposal.

Due to its radioactivity and chemical reactivity, the material is stored in specially engineered containers which are routinely monitored and maintained.

Disposal techniques

The government committed around £150m in August to to assess options for disposing of the UK’s plutonium stockpile. These include two immobilisation approaches: converting plutonium into mixed uranium–plutonium oxide (MOX) for disposal or using hot isostatic pressing to encapsulate the material in a stable, glass-like solid.

The NDA and Sellafield Ltd are working with the UK National Nuclear Laboratory on these disposal efforts, with the project expected to create around 100 jobs.