Technology development for future thorp reprocessing

The Thorp reprocessing plant in the United Kingdom received its full Operating Licence in 1997. As commissioning demands diminished the opportunity was taken to consolidate reprocessing and related programmes of work in order ensure they remain focused on business priorities which will improve plant performance and meet customers current and future needs. The scope of work, technical objectives and organisational effectiveness have been systematically reviewed. Necessary changes have been implemented to improve the effectiveness of resource management and maintain clarity of business focus of the Technology Development Portfolio. Improvements to development techniques resulting from the years of process development and project commissioning support at Sellafield, culminating in Thorp's operation, are now being applied to the enhancement of Thorp's capabilities and performance and to other projects. These techniques have demonstrated significant reduction in research project capital investment and increased flexibility to meet operational demands. (author)