Cost-Benefit Analysis of Close-Out Options for a Uranium Mill Tailings Area

Abstract

Decommissioning alternatives for the completed Rabbit Lake tailings area were investigated. Conceptual designs and preliminary cost estimates were prepared for decommissioning the tailings in situ and relocating them to the Rabbit Lake pit. Preliminary pathways analysis was carried out to determine the public dose resulting from each scenario. Based on a comparison using the ICRP 37 method, the preferred scenario was in situ reclamation with a simple cover.