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Discussion on Deep Borehole Disposal of Spent Nuclear Fuel

Deep borehole disposal (DBD) of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and/or high-level radioactive waste (HLW) is, at the moment, a much-debated topic. Some experts think that DBD is a potentially workable solution for the disposal of SNF and/or HLW, especially for small programs, and some think that it is insufficiently researched and technologically unfeasible concept for which disposal containers have yet to be designed and technology tested in life-size. Although the research process for this concept lasts for more than 50 years and has intensified recently, confirmation that the concept is feasible has not yet been achieved. The original DBD concept is not new, however, it is still one of the least developed and researched concepts. Although, the petroleum industry has an abundance of experience in theoretically similar technology, disposal of SNF and HLW is a much different problem than drilling and production of oil and gas. Thus, it is inappropriate to draw a direct parallel between the technology of drilling the wells for oil and gas production with the technology of making boreholes for SNF and HLW disposal. The main reason for favoring this concept is the idea of disposal at depths of more than three kilometers, with minimal rock destruction and without creating underground facilities resembling mines. Several problems are still not solved: achieving the appropriate borehole diameter at the required depth ; preventing canister jams, canister design, canister installation and borehole-closing technology.

deep borehole disposal, spent nuclear fuel, high level waste, concept, repository

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