Advances in conditioning of low- and intermediate-level nuclear waste

Radioactive waste with widely varying characteristics is generated from the operation and maintenance of nuclear reactors, nuclear fuel cycle facilities, research facilities and medical facilities and the through the use of radioisotopes in industrial applications. The waste needs to be treated and conditioned appropriately to provide wasteforms acceptable for safe storage and disposal. Conditioning of radioactive waste is an important step to prepare waste for long-term storage or disposal and includes the following processes: ▪ Immobilization which may or may not also provide volume reduction, including Low temperature processes andThermal processes;▪ Containerization for Transport,Storage, andDisposal;▪ Overpacking of primary containers Prior to disposal andIn a disposal facility as part of disposal process.