LIFE CYCLE MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS PACKAGING

The objective of life cycle management of radioactive materials packaging is to ensure the safety functions (i.e., containment of radioactivity, protection against radiation, and criticality safety for fissile contents) during the entire life cycle of the packaging in storage, transportation, and disposal. A framework has been developed for life cycle management regarding Type B radioactive and fissile materials packaging, drawing upon current U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) storage standards and examples from interim storage of Pu-bearing materials in Model 9975 transportation packagings. Key issues highlighted during long-term storage of Pu-bearing materials included gas generation and stability of PuO2+x; other operation safety issues highlighted for interim storage of Model 9975 transportation packagings included the need to consider a facility design-basis fire event and the long-term behavior of packaging components such as Celotex and elastomeric O-ring seals. The principles of aging management are described, and the key attributes and examples of effective aging management programs are provided based on the guidance documents for license renewal of nuclear power plants. The Packaging Certification Program of DOE Environmental Management, Office of Safety Management and Operations, plans to expand its mission into packaging certification for storage and aging management, as well as application of advanced technology, such as radiofrequency identification, for life cycle management of radioactive materials packagings.