Preparation and analysis of solid radioactive waste HEPA filters from the operation of nuclear plant in Indonesia

HEPA filters are made of randomly arranged fibers that resemble mats. Fibers used HEPA filters usually consist of fiberglass and has a diameter between 0.5 and 2.0 micrometers. A key factor affecting the performance of HEPA is a function of fiber diameter, filter thickness, and face velocity. HEPA Air Filters can filter out almost 99.97 % of particles 0.3 micrometers in size, and is more effective for larger particles. But not effective against particles smaller than 0.3 micrometers. In general, nuclear installations using a HEPA filter to capture particles contaminated with radioactive possible. Radioactive waste HEPA filters of various agencies BATAN been managed well until the stage of collecting, grouping and temporary storage. Preparation and analysis has been done HEPA filter waste from nuclear establishments, among others PTLR, PRSG and PPR. The process of preparation is done in a closed room is equipped with a VAC Off Gas system and the entire surface of the floor covered with plastic sheets to avoid contamination. The amount of waste that is prepared is 129 pieces with a size of 60 x 60 x 30 cm and 60 x 30 x 30 cm, was prepared in a cardboard Waste size 50 x 30 x 20 cm to 126 pieces. The results of the analysis of individual exposures - each box after preparation between 0.09 μSv/h up to 0.28 μSv/h and can be done processing the incineration process. Of the preparation process still poses a HEPA filter that is pretty much secondary waste form aluminum foil stored in 100 liter drums and need to be processed further. (author)