Publisher's Synopsis
The "Radioactive Waste Management Handbook" provides a comprehensive, systematic treatment of nuclear waste management. "Near-Surface Land Disposal", the first volume, is intended as a primary and secondary reference for the technical community. To those unfamiliar with the field, it provides a bridge to technical information, presenting the technology associated with the near-surface disposal of low or intermediate level wastes. Coverage ranges from incipient planning to site closure and subsequent monitoring. The book discusses the importance of a systems approach during the design of new disposal facilities so that performance objectives can be achieved; gives an overview of the radioactive wastes consigned to near-surface disposal; addresses procedures for screening and selecting sites; and empasizes the importance of characterizing sites and obtaining reliable geologic and hydrologic data.;The planning essential to the development of particular sites (land acquisition, access, layout, surface water management, capital costs) is considered, and site operations (waste receiving, inspection, emplacement, closure, stabilization) are reviewed. In addition the book presents concepts for improved confinement of waste, important aspects of establishing a monitoring program at the disposal facility, and corrective actions available after closure to minimize release. Two analytical techniques for evaluating alternative technologies are presented. Nontechnical issues surrounding disposal, including the difficulties of public acceptance are discussed. A glossary of technical terms is included.
