Technical Challenges for Dry Storage of Used Fuel From Research Reactors in Canada

Abstract

Research reactors have been operated in Canada to support nuclear R&D programs and medical isotope production. Used nuclear fuel discharged from these research reactors is currently being dry stored at the storage facilities at Chalk River site. The research reactor used fuels are significantly less corrosion-resistant than the Zircaloy-clad power-reactor fuels during storage and are subject to unique hazards associated with their chemical and physical characteristics. This paper discusses the technical and safety issues related to the dry storage of these fuels, and presents the key safety considerations required in the design and operation of new dry fuel storage facilities at CRL.