Fuel cycle with pyro-process from the perspective of resisting proliferation

The pyrometallurgical process produces low decontamination material with minor actinides and some amount of rare earths, which is reusable fast reactor fuel. This paper describes expected composition of the product through the treatment of oxide by the pyrometallurgy, and proliferation resistance is discussed and safeguard measures are proposed. The high heat generation and lethal radiation dose of the material contributes to a strong resistance to proliferation, which, also, predicts its inadequacy as a weapon material. From the viewpoint of safeguards, a new management concept has to be devised. Due to high radiotoxicity and strong radiation, the process and material is operated and handled in an alpha tight enclosure with shielding. The hot cell complex is divided into three mass balance areas, with key measurement points, KMP. All entries and outlets are subjected to C and S measures. (author)