ADVERTORIAL FEATURE | VEOLIA NUCLEAR SOLUTIONS (VNS)
transforming radioactive waste management
The heat is on: How thermal processing is
As global leaders seek innovative solutions to radioactive waste processing, thermal techniques are emerging as a cost-effective and environmentally
friendly alternative. Our exploration of the commercial successes of this technology highlights valuable lessons and possibilities for the future of waste treatment.
By Dr. Gareth Peel, Director of Waste Management, Veolia Nuclear Solutions
INTEREST IN THERMAL TECHNIQUES FOR processing radioactive materials is growing, with programmes exploring this technology progressing in the UK, the US and France. While challenges remain in adopting this technology, such as operational efficiency, integration with existing infrastructure and, in certain applications, nuclear safety, the potential to significantly reduce long-term costs and environmental impacts is substantial. Thermal processing of radioactive wastes is now a
commercial reality, offering valuable lessons for the industry. This article aims to highlight these lessons and demonstrate how today’s thermal technology is more relevant than ever for your waste needs.
Commercial Operations Many waste owners worldwide have faced the challenge of not having an existing plant capable of processing their waste, preventing them from making a Best Available Technique or equivalent safety or environmental assessment.
Fortunately, this barrier is being overcome. For example,
Veolia Nuclear Solutions’ GeoMelt plant began commercial operations in 2022 at a facility in Andrews, Texas, USA. This facility processes and disposes sodium contaminated radioactive wastes for the U.S. Department of Energy. Operated at the Waste Control Specialists (WCS) site, the wastes are processed and disposed of in one operation, with the wastes consigned to adjacent licensed landfill cells on the site. With this facility in operation, waste owners can now
undertake processing optioneering assessments including thermal options with confidence, knowing that a plant physically exists for the processing of their wastes.
Lessons learned A proven, robust and versatile process Thermal treatment can process a wide range of wastes, reducing the need for absolute segregation and lowering pre-processing costs. This versatility makes the process ideal for complex and mixed waste forms, ultimately
Above: The Veolia GeoMelt facility at the WCS site in Andrews, Texas 24 | July 2024 |
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