- Unique method for removal of spent fuel assemblies claddings of thermal or fast reactors by dissolution of the claddings in liquid metal has been developed.
- The proposed method can be used for removal fuel claddings made of special steels or zirconium alloys (VVER-1000, BREST and BN reactors).
- The proposed method makes processing of radioactive materials more efficient and technologically effective.
Advantages:
- Fuel can be separated from constructional materials of the assembly without its cutting that considerably simplifies the process and makes it cheaper.
- Fuel cans can be opened without losses as nitride as oxide fuels.
- Remainders of fuel assemblies can be compacted. This is important for both the organization of reprocessing and the provision of conditions for disposal and storage of wastes.
