Transmutation of transuranium waste with high energy proton induced spallation reaction

Transmutation of radioactive nuclear waste using a proton accelerator-driven transmutation (TRU) target system has been studied as a possible way to convert long-lived wastes into shorter-lived substances. The recent advances made in accelerator technology during the past decade and other considerations related to reactors and radioactive waste make it timely to reexamine this subject. Accelerators can now be provided with higher efficiency (using higher beam intensity capability, high beam loading and high efficiency RF power) and improved beam handling techniques. The proposed transmutation system and requirements to the accelerator system is described. (R.P.) 5 refs.; 5 figs.; 2 tabs