The initiative focuses on removing non-fissile components from the used fuel pools, which contain intermediate-level radioactive waste. The process involves cutting components and sorting waste into two categories: short-lived low- and intermediate-level waste (CAT-A) and long-lived low- and intermediate-level waste (CAT-B). CAT-B waste is placed in high-integrity containers, immobilized, and sent to Belgoprocess, the company responsible for safely processing radioactive waste in Belgium. CAT-A waste, meanwhile, is stored in 400-liter drums and transferred unconditioned to the Water and Waste Treatment Building at Doel and the Solid Waste Treatment Building at Tihange nuclear power plant.
Tractebel, a Belgian engineering firm, is collaborating with plant operator Engie Electrabel to manage this project. Tractebel’s engineers conduct radiological characterization studies to accurately classify the waste from the used fuel pools. They also oversee technical aspects, including documentation review and the fabrication of high-integrity containers, ensuring compliance with standards set by ONDRAF/NIRAS, Belgium’s radioactive waste management organization. Electrabel will transfer ownership of the filled containers to ONDRAF/NIRAS upon completion.
This project marks Tractebel’s first effort to characterize used fuel pool components classified as CAT-B waste. The company is applying its extensive experience with fuel and CAT-A containers to design the CAT-B containers, integrating these efforts into qualification files required by ONDRAF/NIRAS. The collaboration between Tractebel and Electrabel has been instrumental in achieving this milestone.
Deborah Van Den Brande, Group Manager DECOM Doel Projects at Tractebel, highlighted the significance of the achievement: “The project represents a significant achievement for Tractebel and Electrabel. The innovative approach to radiologically characterising and managing the spent fuel pool’s radioactive waste sets a new standard in nuclear decommissioning. The expertise of our engineers, who have worked in integrated teams with Electrabel, has been crucial in ensuring the project’s success.”
As the first Belgian nuclear power plant to enter decommissioning, Doel 3 sets a precedent for waste management practices. The project’s innovative methods and rigorous oversight underscore Belgium’s commitment to safe and efficient nuclear decommissioning, paving the way for future efforts in the sector.
