The core technologies for Tritium removal processes (I)

In case of operating both Wolsung Nuclear Units 1 and 2 without operating tritium removal facilities, it is estimated that tritium in 2013 would be accumulated up to about 30 million Ci that would result in about 2,300 man-rem of tritium exposure to operators. The basic technologies for cryogenic distillation for tritium removal are mainly cryogenics, chemical equilibration of hydrogen isotope molecule, ortho-para hydrogen conversion, purification of hydrogen gas, electrolysis of water, recombination of water, and storage of tritium. Among them, the cryogenics, ortho-para hydrogen conversion and equilibration are the core technologies for development of tritium removal process. Establishment of these technologies through R and D in this field will contribute to localization of a tritium removal facility for Wolsung nuclear safety. (Author)