Analysis of dismantling process and disposal cost of waste RVCH

Abstract

During the operation of a nuclear power plant (NPP), the waste reactor vessel closure head (RVCH) that is replaced owing to design or manufacturing defects is buried in a designated area or temporarily stored in a radiation shielding facility within the NPP. In such cases, storing it for extended periods proves a challenge owing to space constraints in the power plant and a safety risk associated with radiation exposure; therefore, dismantling it quickly and safely is crucial. However, not much research has been done on the dismantling of the RVCH in an operational power plant. This study proposes a dismantling process based on the radioactive contamination level measured for the Kori #1 RVCH, which is currently being discarded and stored, and examines the decontamination and cutting according to this process. In addition, the amount of secondary waste and dismantling cost are evaluated, and the dismantling effect of the reactor closure head is analyzed.