Volume reduction, treatment and recycling of radioactive waste

Both solid and liquid wastes are generated in a nuclear power plant. Liquid wastes are better treated on site owing to the large quantities generated. For solid wastes off-site treatment in central facilities makes better sence. The largest volume reduction factors are obtained for solid, combustible wastes through incineration and subsequent supercompaction. Contaminated metal components, such as used heat exchangers, vessels, tanks, valves, etc. are recycled; that is, they are remelted and then manufactured into new components for use in nuclear facilities. Evaporation of liquid radwaste provides initial volume reduction, which is followed by drying to reduce the waste to a dry, solid product. (orig.)