High integrity containers: a demonstrated disposal alternative to solidification of radioactive wastes

The EPICOR and Waste Research and Disposition Program at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory developed, tested, and is using a High Integrity Container (HIC) for commercial disposal of EPICOR-II prefilter liners from the cleanup of Unit 2 of the Three Mile Island Nuclear Power Station. The HIC permits disposal of EPICOR-II liners as Class C low-level radioactive wastes without prior solidification of resins therein. Design rationale for and testing of the HIC are discussed, and costs of using the container for disposal of EPICOR-II liners are compared with costs of solidification. It is concluded that the HIC is a cost competitive alternative to solidification for disposal of unusual types and quantities of low-level radioactive wastes. 4 references, 10 figures