Why is depleted uranium considered a Class A low-level radioactive waste?
The regulations at 10 CFR 61.55, “Waste Classification,” specify classes of low-level radioactive waste for near-surface disposal considering the longevity of the radionuclides contained in the waste. Disposal of Class A waste streams must meet minimum requirements while Classes B and C waste must meet more rigorous requirements to ensure stability of the waste and protect against inadvertent intrusion. Radioactive waste requiring disposal methods more stringent than those for Class C is not generally suited for near-surface disposal. Depleted uranium is a source material as defined by Section 11(z) of the Atomic Energy Act, and if treated as a waste would fall under the definition of Class A low-level radioactive waste under 10 CFR 61.55(a). However, the Commission recognizes that the assessment supporting 10 CFR 61.55 did not address the disposal of significant quantities of depleted uranium. The Commission tasked the staff to evaluate the issue and provide recommendations to the Com
