Optimizing approaches to spent nuclear fuel transport

The security risk associated with transport of HEU spent nuclear fuel is, among other factors, proportional to the duration of the transport process. Many other factors such as distance, access to airports, railheads, and docks also impact options available for transport. Economic also play a large role in the selection of transport mode. For the past ten years the approach for spent nuclear fuel transport in Europe and Asia has been modified based upon changes in technology and careful exploration of options. This paper will summarize the historical evolution of transport mechanisms utilized for the Russian Research Reactor Fuel Return Program. It will also explore the factors utilized in determining the appropriate approach to fuel transport for particular situations and provide a basis for comparison in support of future transport projects. (author)