Scenario Analysis of Radioactively Contaminated Waste Management Options: Towards Final Disposal Outside Fukushima Prefecture

Abstract

The final disposal of radioactively contaminated waste generated during the decontamination process following TEPCO’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident is a critical objective set to be accomplished by 2045. Among the various types of waste targeted for disposal, the thermal treated fly ash from the temporary treatment facility poses a significant challenge due to its high radioactivity resulting from the concentration of cesium. In order to establish an effective disposal and treatment system for this highly radioactively contaminated waste, we have been investigating the relationship between technology options and the feasibility of final disposal facilities, with a focus on intermediate treatment technologies such as recycling and volume reduction. This study aims to examine reasonable treatment and disposal methods by setting up volume reduction scenarios specifically for the thermal treated fly ash. The study evaluates the impact of different combinations of volume reduction technologies to estimate the effects of these options. The results reveal that the introduction of volume reduction technology significantly reduces the amount of waste that requires disposal. However, the study also highlights the importance of addressing challenges related to the proper disposal of secondary waste generated during the volume reduction process. This study examines the relationship between technology selection and the feasibility of final disposal facilities for radioactive waste. It emphasizes the need for effective treatment methods, particularly volume reduction, while acknowledging the challenges associated with managing secondary waste. The findings contribute to ongoing efforts in determining appropriate approaches for the safe disposal of radioactive waste from the Fukushima disaster.