Characterization of selected low-level radioactive waste generated by four light water reactors located in New York State

An investigation was made of the radionuclide makeup of light water nuclear reactors radioactive wastes presently being consigned to shallow land burial. The understanding of the specific properties of these wastes is essential to the development of criteria and standards for the ultimate disposal of these wastes, and to an assessment of the potential environmental impact of shallow land disposal practices. The studies were contracted through the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority and consisted of radiochemical analyses of spent ion exchange resins, evaporator concentrates and filter sludges for specific radionuclides. In addition, analyses of waste samples were made to determine gross alpha, beta and gamma activities. Ten waste samples were obtained from four reactors'. The reactors' characteristics are summarized along with comparisons of the radionuclide constituents. Based on an interpretation of the analyses and comparisons, conclusions were drawn dealing with the significance of the data including their comparability, reliability, applicability and validity