Grouting operations resume at UK LLW repository site

The containers of low-level waste (LLW) - which could include a wide range of materials, predominantly from the decommissioning of nuclear facilities - will be encapsulated in a cement-based grout to form a monolithic block, ensuring the waste is managed safely and in line with environmental regulations.

This latest programme of grout infilling, sealing and securing containers will take over five months to complete, NWS said.

Following this work, containers will be ready for final disposal and will be placed in engineered concrete vaults at the Low Level Waste Repository (LLWR) where they will remain.

NWS - a division of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority - has carried out a programme of refurbishments at the grouting facility on the LLWR site, including replacing old equipment, introducing new technology and improving the building's infrastructure. 

"Moving forward with this work takes the waste to its final disposal destination, helping us to achieve our goals of making the waste permanently safe, sooner," said LLWR Operations Manager Russell Beckwith. "The UK has been producing and managing radioactive waste for many decades and will continue to do so for many more. Our goal is to ensure that waste is disposed of both safely and securely and in a way that is sustainable and protects people and the environment.

"The improvements and refurbishments at the facility will enable us to complete this work to the highest standard and with maximum efficiency."

The LLWR site has operated safely since 1959. Its role is to ensure that LLW generated in the UK is disposed of in a way that protects people and the environment. The repository site receives low-level solid waste from a range of customers, such as the nuclear industry, the Ministry of Defence, non-nuclear industries, educational, medical and research establishments.