Explosive techniques for the dismantling of radioactive concrete structures

The decommissioning of nuclear facilities calls for the controlled removal of activated and/or contaminated materials from the insides of biological shielding heavy reinforced or prestressed concrete structures whilst relying on the outer layers of non-activated or non-contaminated material to contain the activity. This paper describes development work being carried out on the controlled use of explosives to cut and remove activated parts of nuclear facilities without impairing the overall structural integrity. The paper discusses the results obtained and concludes that the controlled usage of explosives offers a safe and favourable dismantling technique for the decommissioning of nuclear facilities. (author)