Low-level radioactive waste modeling needs from the USNRC perspective

The NRC is developing a low-level waste regulation to be issued for public comment by April 30, 1981. Publication of the final rule and final EIS is expected in 1982. This regulation, 10 CFR Part 61 will apply only to near surface disposal. Two basic approaches have been considered in developing specific regulations: a prescriptive approach and a performance objective approach. To accomplish the licensing and regulation of low-level waste disposal facilities, the information that will be needed and the methodologies to be used to assess performances are being established. Regulatory guides will cover site selection and characterization, facility design and operations, waste classification, waste form performance, site closure, post-operational surveillance, funding and monitoring. In developing licensing review procedures, initial efforts are to establish analytical modeling capabilities. We are establishing our modeling needs, determining models availability, obtaining potentially useful models and adopting those that meet our needs. As a test case, the Barnwell facility will be modeled and its performance assessed. Our analyses will then be compared with those of our contractor, ORNL and the Licensee