The use of an integral solution will provide high flexibility, automation, and reduced dose uptake through remote operation with minimal deployment and operational effort.
By bringing together a laser cutting head, radiation detector, and laser surface profiler, the plan is to reduce waste conditioning, packaging, and handling by using optimised cut pieces and size, which will allow for a higher packing density and more efficient handling. This combined cutting head, radiation detector and laser surface profiler would be independent of a manipulation system and weigh less than 5kg.
The integral system will accurately map the surface activities of structures to allow efficient waste characterisation, which in turn will allow contaminated areas to be cut out and stored according to waste category.
It is hoped that this integral system will deliver an advanced and more efficient waste management process to site licence companies, while also ensuring a safer method of decommissioning nuclear waste at a lower cost.
Integral is a UK collaborative project, funded under the competition ‘Energy Game Changer’ by Innovate UK
Consortium Partners:
TWI Ltd: Development of the laser cutting head and laser size reduction procedures for relevant structures
Imitec: Project Coordination, technology integration and demonstration
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