Analysis of disposition alternatives for radioactively contaminated scrap metal

Millions of tons of slightly radioactive scrap iron and steel, stainless steel, and copper are likely to become available as nuclear and other facilities and equipment ar e withdrawn from service. Disposition of this material is an international policy issue under consideration currently. The major alternatives for managing this material are either to develop a regulatory process for decontamination and recycling that will safeguard human health or to dispose of the soap and replace the metal stocks. To evaluate the alternatives, we estimate quantities of scrap arising from nuclear power. plant decommissioning, evaluate potential pr ice impacts of recycling on regional markers, and assess the health and environmental impacts of the management alternatives. We conclude that decontaminating and recycling the scrap is the superior alternative. (C) 1998 The Franklin Institute. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.