How does Cornell manage low-level radioactive waste now?
Low level radioactive wate is handled based on two primary attributes: the rate of decay (or half-life) of the radioactive material present and the physical form (liquid or solid) of the waste. Organic solvent-based liquids that contain low-level radioactivity are a special category. Regardless of half-life, these liquids are sent offsite for processing in permitted facilities in Florida and Tennessee. Low-level Radioactive Waste with Half-Life Less than 90 Days This material is stored on-site until it decays for a period of time that is equivalent to at least 10 half-lives, as required by New York State Department of Health. The material is then monitored to confirm that the appropriate decay has occurred and then disposed in one of three ways: liquid wastes are discharged into the sanitary sewer in accordance with appropriate regulations; solid waste is disposed as trash with other refuse at a solid waste landfill; and animal carcasses are incinerated in the campus incinerator. Low-l
