Alternatives for Disposition of Nuclear Facilities in the United States

Abstract

This paper discusses factors involved in considering alternatives for disposition of nuclear facilities in the United States. Alternatives include immediate dismantlement, delayed dismantlement or safe storage on site, and entombment. Factors considered include the particular radionuclides involved, options for confinement, long term environmental and monetary costs, worker risks, and public acceptability. Balanced consideration of these factors can lead to choosing the optimum alternative. The paper also discusses how these factors could be related to decommissioned Russian nuclear submarines. Views expressed are those of the author and do not represent those of agencies of the United States.