How is high-level radioactive waste managed?
All used nuclear fuel in Canada is currently held on site in interim storage facilities, which are safe, secure and environmentally sound. Interim storage of used nuclear fuel at a nuclear facility typically consists of two phases known as wet storage and dry storage. Initially, used nuclear fuel bundles are stored under water in bays or pools after they have been removed from the reactors. These reinforced, leak-proof facilities enable the fuel to cool off in a shielded and secure facility. After 6 to 10 years in wet storage, the used nuclear fuel can be safely transferred to dry storage in concrete canisters, containers or silos. At present, there are currently no operating long-term management facilities for used nuclear fuel anywhere in the world, although some are under development. Finding solutions for the long-term management of used nuclear fuel is the responsibility of the NWMO. Back to top 4) Uranium mine and mill waste Uranium mine waste rock and mill tailings are specific
