Storage of radioactive waste

High level waste

• High level waste includes products of fission from used nuclear fuel.
• Vitrification: the conversion of liquid radioactive and chemical waste into a solid, stable glass
• In sealed stainless steel containers surrounded by concrete cooled with air

Intermediate level waste

• Intermediate level waste includes used fuel containers and filters from reprocessing
• It is stored in cement or steel drums

Low level waste

• Low level waste includes general equipment and clothing
• It is stored in:
  • Sealed polythene bags
  • Steel drums
  • Steel truck containers
  • Concrete-lined landfill sites