Management of Depleted Uranium Used as Shielding in Disused Radiation Devices

INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY

IAEA Nuclear Energy Series No. NW-T-1.30

English STI/PUB/2020 ¦ 978-92-0-129122-6

145 pages ¦ 218 figures ¦ € 48.00 ¦ Date published: 2023

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Description

In the context of the safe management of disused sealed radioactive sources, an important and emerging issue of immediate concern is the management of depleted uranium (DU) contained in radiation shielding materials, as potential radioactive waste. This publication presents relevant information on technical issues and factors, as well as specific Member State experiences leading to the identification of potential options for the management of DU shields. Various options for safe, secure and cost-effective solutions have been explored, ranging from returning to manufacturer, including reuse, recycling, storage and disposal in licensed facilities.

More Information on reusing IAEA copyright material.

Keywords

IAEA Nuclear Energy, Management, Depleted Uranium, DU, Shielding, Disused Radiation Devices, Safety Measures, Radioactive Waste Disposal, Methods, Hazards, Safe Handling, National Experiences, Radioactive Devices, Characteristics of Uranium, Uses of DU, Device Labelling Information, Documentation, Safeguards Considerations, Shielded Devices, Responsibilities, Radiological Safety, Safety and Security, Inventory Information, Steps Forward, General Aspects, Case Study, Shielding Control, Specific Regulatory Requirements, Shielding Materials, Technical Issues, Secure and Cost-Effective Solutions, Reuse, Recycling, Storage, Licensed Facilities, Member States, Countries, Review