The new storage center for very low-level radioactive wastes (TFA)

The storage center for very low-level radioactive wastes is due to open in mid summer 2003. This site situated in the Aube department covers an area of 45 hectares and is made up of a series of clay compartments that will house the wastes. This center is dimensioned to receive a total volume of 650000 m3 of wastes at a rate of 25000 tons a year for 30 years. The investment represents 40 million euros and the cost for waste producers will be 250 euros a ton. 80% of the wastes will come from the dismantlement of nuclear facilities and 20% from fertilizer manufacturers. This article shows a section of an equipped clay compartment. (A.C.)