75% of Air and Rain Samples Contain Monsanto’s RoundUp
http://www.globalresearch.ca/75-of-air-and-rain-samples-contain-monsantos-roundup/5434013
Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire - Major Energy and Environmental News and Commentary affecting the Nuclear Industry. Nuclear Activities
Saturday, February 28, 2015
75% of Air and Rain Samples Contain Monsanto’s RoundUp
http://www.globalresearch.ca/75-of-air-and-rain-samples-contain-monsantos-roundup/5434013
Why electricity from Russian nuclear power plants is cheaper?
Why electricity from Russian nuclear power plants is cheaper?
February 27, 2015
Compare 3.5 rupees against 6 per kWh. Experts say that the
difference in the price of electricity coming from Russian and American
nuclear power plants – is due to different construction strategy.
http://in.rbth.com/economics/2015/02/27/why_electricity_from_russian_nuclear_power_plants_is_cheaper_41689.html
Energy and Water Subcommittee Hearing on FY2016 Request for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Energy and Water Subcommittee Hearing on FY2016 Request for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (Lamar Alexander, Chairman)
Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2016 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building
Witnesses:
Stephen G. Burns
Chairman
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Kristine L. Svinicki
Commissioner
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
William C. Ostendorff
Commissioner
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Jeff Baran
Commissioner
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Subcommittees:
Energy and Water Development
Date:
Wednesday, March 4, 2015 - 2:30pm
THE WEEK AHEAD: BUDGET HEARINGS ON AGENDA, INCLUDING TESTIMONY FROM TOP ADMINISTRATION OFFICIALS
THE WEEK AHEAD: BUDGET HEARINGS ON AGENDA, INCLUDING TESTIMONY FROM TOP ADMINISTRATION OFFICIALS
http://www.bna.com/week-ahead-budget-b17179923502/Feds Allow Lawsuit To Shut Down Diablo Canyon To Proceed
Feds Allow Lawsuit To Shut Down Diablo Canyon To Proceed
https://www.indybay.org/newsitems/2015/02/27/18769260.php
https://www.indybay.org/newsitems/2015/02/27/18769260.php
Proponents of Nuclear Energy need to stop Demonizing Fossil Fuels
Proponents of Nuclear Energy need to stop Demonizing Fossil Fuels
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/proponents-nuclear-energy-need-stop-demonizing-fossil-jon-morrow
Yes Vermont Yankee The Local Grid: Pictures at the Edge
Yes Vermont Yankee
The Local Grid: Pictures at the Edge
On
a recent cold morning, the New England grid had 243 MW excess capacity
with 20,000 MW projected demand. (A 1% safety margin!)) In this post,
Meredith Angwin shares screen shots from the grid operator website.
These are "Pictures at the Edge (of reliability)." Oh yeah, prices also
soared past $230 MWh.
The “Pause” in Global Warming Is Finally Explained
The “Pause” in Global Warming Is Finally Explained
http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/2015/02/26/the-pause-in-global-warming-is-finally-explained/"Surprise! CO2 Directly Linked To Global Warming "
Surprise! CO2 Directly Linked To Global Warming http://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesconca/2015/02/27/surprise-co2-directly-linked-to-global-warming/
Japan’s largest nuclear power station moves to center of reactor restart efforts
Japan’s largest nuclear power station moves to center of reactor restart efforts
- TEPCO calls for rate increase if it cannot restart of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa
- KANSAI gets preliminary approval to restart Takahama 3 & 4
- MIT’s Richard Lester offers TEPCO and Japan advice on reducing greenhouse gasses by investing in nuclear energy
http://neutronbytes.com/2015/02/22/japans-largest-nuclear-power-station-moves-to-center-of-reactor-restart-efforts/
The Real Subject of Netanyahu's Congressional Spectacle (It Isn't Nukes)
http://nationalinterest.org/
Benjamin Netanyahu will talk next week, as he has innumerable
times before, about how an Iranian nuclear weapon is supposedly an
extremely grave and imminent (he has been saying for years that it is
just around the corner) threat to world peace and to his nation. There
has been genuine concern in Israel about this subject, but Netanyahu's
own behavior and posture indicate this is not the concern that is
driving his conduct and in particular his diplomacy-wrecking efforts. He
is acting out of other motives, ones that—quite unlike the objective of
avoiding an Iranian nuclear weapon—are not shared with the United
States and instead directly conflict with U.S. interests.
There have been plenty of reasons to doubt all along Netanyahu's alarmist rhetoric. There has been his history of wolf-crying on the subject, against the background of an Iran that has not even decided to build a nuclear weapon. There is the further background of Israel's overwhelming military superiority in the region, at not only the conventional level but also at the level about which Netanyahu is raising such alarm [4]. And there are the repeated indications that his alarmism goes beyond what even his own security services believe [5].
http://nationalinterest.org/blog/paul-pillar/the-real-subject-netanyahus-congressional-spectacle-it-isnt-12337?page=show
The Real Subject of Netanyahu's Congressional Spectacle (It Isn't Nukes)
There have been plenty of reasons to doubt all along Netanyahu's alarmist rhetoric. There has been his history of wolf-crying on the subject, against the background of an Iran that has not even decided to build a nuclear weapon. There is the further background of Israel's overwhelming military superiority in the region, at not only the conventional level but also at the level about which Netanyahu is raising such alarm [4]. And there are the repeated indications that his alarmism goes beyond what even his own security services believe [5].
http://nationalinterest.org/blog/paul-pillar/the-real-subject-netanyahus-congressional-spectacle-it-isnt-12337?page=show
Three takeaways from Babcock & Wilcox’s latest earnings
Three takeaways from Babcock & Wilcox’s latest earnings
Can Obama's Iran Deal Outlive His Presidency?
Senior Fellow John Isaacs quoted in Bloomberg View On Iran
Can Obama's Iran Deal Outlive His Presidency?
http://armscontrolcenter.org/press/hits/John_Isaacs_in_BloombergView_on_Iran/
Center Board Member Col. Klass Publishes Iran End Game Article in Roll Call
Center Board Member Col. Klass Publishes Iran End Game Article in Roll Call
http://armscontrolcenter.org/press/hits/Roll_Call_Blog_Klass_Iran_02272015/
Diseconomy of scale – world’s largest canned-motor reactor coolant pump
Diseconomy of scale – world’s largest canned-motor reactor coolant pump
On February 16, 2015, an AP article by Ray Henry titled Nuclear plants delayed in China, watched closely by US firms
contained a short paragraph that has contributed to a number of
sleepless nights. I’m pretty sure there are plenty of other people
affected in the same manner who have far more at stake than I do. Here
are the worry-simulating words.
Officials at China’s State Nuclear Power Technology Corp. blame the delays on the late delivery of equipment from the United States. Westinghouse Electric Co. and project manufacturers are working to redesign a coolant pump for the plant.
(Emphasis added.)
http://atomicinsights.com/diseconomy-of-scale-worlds-largest-canned-motor-reactor-coolant-pump/
Atomic Show #233 – Innovators discuss advanced reactor development in US
Atomic Show #233 – Innovators discuss advanced reactor development in US
There are a growing number of innovative small companies and a few
divisions of larger companies that have recognized that nuclear energy
offers solutions to a number of important human challenges. Despite the
proclamations by opponents, the Nuclear Renaissance is not any more dead
in 2015 than the original Renaissance was dead in 1315.
http://atomicinsights.com/atomic-show-233-innovators-discuss-advanced-reactor-development-in-us/
Friday, February 27, 2015
As Antarctica Melts Away, Seas Could Rise Ten Feet Within 100 Years
As Antarctica Melts Away, Seas Could Rise Ten Feet Within 100 Years
Based on rapid thawing, continent has become 'ground zero of global climate change without a doubt,' says geophysicist
http://www.commondreams.org/news/2015/02/27/antarctica-melts-away-seas-could-rise-ten-feet-within-100-years
Climate scientist says rational threat assessment needed for nuclear power
Climate scientist says rational threat assessment needed for nuclear power http://globalnews.ca/news/1854499/climate-scientist-says-rational-threat-assessment-needed-for-nuclear-power/
The Ultimate Nightmare: Are the U.S. and China Destined for War?
The Ultimate Nightmare: Are the U.S. and China Destined for War?
http://nationalinterest.org/feature/the-ultimate-nightmare-are-the-us-china-destined-war-12331
China’s Space Weapons Threaten U.S. Satellites
China’s Space Weapons Threaten U.S. Satellites
Stratcom worried by antisatellite missiles, satellite weapons, lasers
http://freebeacon.com/national-security/chinas-space-weapons-threaten-us-satellites/
Is Obama’s Vision of Nuclear Zero Leading to Nowhere?
A Dangerous Rivalry Renewed
Is Obama’s Vision of Nuclear Zero Leading to Nowhere?
Islamabad.
http://www.counterpunch.org/2015/02/27/is-obamas-vision-of-nuclear-zero-leading-to-nowhere/
Nuclear power: Energy for the future or relic of the past?
Nuclear power: Energy for the future or relic of the past?
http://www.bbc.com/news/business-30919045
Climate of Incivility Climate McCarthyism is Wrong Whether Democratic or Republican
Climate of Incivility
Climate McCarthyism is Wrong Whether Democratic or Republican
https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=247854211242866212#editor/src=dashboardhttp://thebreakthrough.org/index.php/voices/michael-shellenberger-and-ted-nordhaus/climate-incivility
European Commission May Axe Hungary-Russia Nuclear Plant Deal
European Commission May Axe Hungary-Russia Nuclear Plant Deal
Moscow, Russia (SPX) Feb 24, 2015 - The European Commission (EC) is looking into the legality of Hungary's contract with Russia to construct new units of the Paks nuclear power plant in central Hungary, the Financial Times reported Monday. On December 9, 2014, Moscow and Budapest signed a contract for the construction of two new 1,200-megawatt power generating units for Paks. Last week, Russia's nuclear agency Rosatom ... morehttp://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/European_Commission_May_Axe_Hungary_Russia_Nuclear_Plant_Deal_999.html
Moscow, Russia (SPX) Feb 24, 2015 - The European Commission (EC) is looking into the legality of Hungary's contract with Russia to construct new units of the Paks nuclear power plant in central Hungary, the Financial Times reported Monday. On December 9, 2014, Moscow and Budapest signed a contract for the construction of two new 1,200-megawatt power generating units for Paks. Last week, Russia's nuclear agency Rosatom ... morehttp://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/European_Commission_May_Axe_Hungary_Russia_Nuclear_Plant_Deal_999.html
Fukushima operator concealed radioactive leak for nearly a year
Fukushima operator concealed radioactive leak for nearly a year
Tokyo, Japan (Sputnik) Feb 27, 2015 - Tokyo Electric Power Co., TEPCO, has been slammed by fishermen, for knowingly allowing radioactive substances to flow freely into the sea for ten months. Operators of the tsunami-stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant admitted that a drainage ditch allowed highly-contaminated water to flow into the sea, and that the leak was first detected back in May 2014. Fishermen were shocked to hear ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Busted!_Fukushima_Operator_Concealed_Radioactive_Leak_for_Nearly_a_Year_999.html
Tokyo, Japan (Sputnik) Feb 27, 2015 - Tokyo Electric Power Co., TEPCO, has been slammed by fishermen, for knowingly allowing radioactive substances to flow freely into the sea for ten months. Operators of the tsunami-stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant admitted that a drainage ditch allowed highly-contaminated water to flow into the sea, and that the leak was first detected back in May 2014. Fishermen were shocked to hear ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Busted!_Fukushima_Operator_Concealed_Radioactive_Leak_for_Nearly_a_Year_999.html
Lulu Li: Modeling the Maelstrom inside a Reactor
Lulu Li: Modeling the Maelstrom inside a Reactor
Reactor
physicist Lulu Li wants to make reactors safer by studying the "kinetic
choreography" of the rapidly moving neutrons inside of them.
http://mitei.mit.edu/news/lulu-li-modeling-maelstrom-inside-reactor?utm_source=MIT+Energy+Initiative&utm_campaign=ef89743b2a-eNewsletter_Test10_16_2012&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_eb3c6d9c51-ef89743b2a-70117141
Ernest Moniz and Ratan Tata Talk Energy Innovation at ARPA-E Summit
Ernest Moniz and Ratan Tata Talk Energy Innovation at ARPA-E Summit
“The time is now for countries to use new technologies to solve old problems.”
http://mitei.mit.edu/news/ernest-moniz-and-ratan-tata-talk-energy-innovation-arpa-e-summit?utm_source=MIT+Energy+Initiative&utm_campaign=ef89743b2a-eNewsletter_Test10_16_2012&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_eb3c6d9c51-ef89743b2a-70117141
Bridging the Fuel Gap to the Future
Bridging the Fuel Gap to the Future
At
one of the ten panels open to the public at the upcoming MIT Energy
Club Conference, MIT energy economist Christopher Knittel will explore
the future of shale gas with fellow experts in the field.
http://mitei.mit.edu/news/bridging-fuel-gap-future?utm_source=MIT+Energy+Initiative&utm_campaign=ef89743b2a-eNewsletter_Test10_16_2012&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_eb3c6d9c51-ef89743b2a-70117141
BOOK REVIEW: Game Changers: Energy on the Move
BOOK REVIEW: Game Changers: Energy on the Move
Foreign
Affairs reviews former Secretary of State George P. Shultz and MITEI
Director Robert C. Armstrong's book on the future of energy innovation.
http://mitei.mit.edu/news/book-review-game-changers-energy-move?utm_source=MIT+Energy+Initiative&utm_campaign=ef89743b2a-eNewsletter_Test10_16_2012&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_eb3c6d9c51-ef89743b2a-70117141
Fukushima Update 2/26/15 – Sunday’s short-lived radiation alarm has touched off a news media feeding frenzy… Area radiation levels in Kawamata have been cut in half… and more.
Fukushima Update 2/26/15 – Sunday’s short-lived radiation alarm has touched off a news media feeding frenzy… Area radiation levels in Kawamata have been cut in half… and more.
Fukushima Accident Updates (Blog) hiroshimasyndrome.com
The internet's top source of Fukushima news.
Many call it the Fukushima nuclear disaster. The Fukushima accident is a
major topic around the world.http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.com/fukushima-accident-updates.html
India: Damage claim for nuclear accident only under liability law, says Government
India: Damage claim for nuclear accident only under liability law, says Government
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/damage-claim-for-nuclear-accident-only-under-liability-law-says-government/articleshow/46379229.cms
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/damage-claim-for-nuclear-accident-only-under-liability-law-says-government/articleshow/46379229.cms
NEI: FERC Has Key Role in Meeting EPA Emission Goals
NEI: FERC Has Key Role in Meeting EPA Emission Goals
http://www.nei.org/News-Media/News/News-Archives/NEI-FERC-Has-Key-Role-in-Meeting-EPA-Emission-Goal
What would happen if an 800-kiloton nuclear warhead detonated above midtown Manhattan?
What would happen if an 800-kiloton nuclear warhead detonated above midtown Manhattan?
Steven Starr, Lynn Eden, Theodore A. Postol http://thebulletin.org/what-would-happen-if-800-kiloton-nuclear-warhead-detonated-above-midtown-manhattan8023Energy Startup Series: Gridium
Energy Startup Series: Gridium
By Breaking Energy
Adam
Stein (left) and Tom Arnold (right) became friends at the Wharton
School of the University of Pennsylvania and together co-founded
TerraPass, a pioneering greenhouse gas management company. This business
partnership continues today at Gridium, where Adam is President and VP
of Product, and Tom is CEO. Buildings use Gridium software to operate
more efficiently,
Another US Nuclear Plant Shuts Down
Another US Nuclear Plant Shuts Down
By EEnergy Informer
Low
demand, depressed wholesale prices & low cost shale gas are to
blame In late December 2014, Entergy Corp. announced that Yankee
nuclear power plant would cease operation after 42 years of service
during which it generated 171 billion kWhrs of carbon-free electricity –
more than 70% of Vermont’s electricity total demand since 1972. Bill
Aussie Wave Energy Deployment Makes Splash, but Next Project Will Be Real Test
Aussie Wave Energy Deployment Makes Splash, but Next Project Will Be Real Test
By Pete Danko
It’s
been a long, hard winter for wave energy, with reports of failure and
retrenchment streaming out of Europe. But, hey, it’s still summer Down
Under, and Australia has delivered a rare sunny wave story. The question
is whether the Carnegie Wave Energy system near Perth – it officially
began piping energy to the grid
Thursday, February 26, 2015
How NAFTA Could Spoil a Keystone XL Rejection
How NAFTA Could Spoil a Keystone XL Rejection
TransCanada could harness trade deal's Investor-State Dispute Settlement, and U.S. taxpayers could foot the bill.
http://www.commondreams.org/news/2015/02/26/how-nafta-could-spoil-keystone-xl-rejection
Solar Energy Delivers Too Little Bang For Billions Invested
Solar Energy Delivers Too Little Bang For Billions Invested
http://www.forbes.com/sites/realspin/2015/02/25/solar-energy-delivers-too-little-bang-for-billions-invested/
YUCCA MOUNTAIN: DOE, Pentagon considering new uses for Nev. site -- lawmakers
YUCCA MOUNTAIN:
DOE, Pentagon considering new uses for Nev. site -- lawmakers
http://www.eenews.net/stories/1060014115
Proposed drone rules could revolutionize grid monitoring
Proposed drone rules could revolutionize grid monitoring
http://www.utilitydive.com/news/proposed-drone-rules-could-revolutionize-grid-monitoring/367721/
Sea level spiked for 2 years along northeastern North America
Sea level spiked for 2 years along northeastern North America
Tucson AZ (SPX) Feb 26, 2015 - Sea levels from New York to Newfoundland jumped up about four inches in 2009 and 2010 because ocean circulation changed, a University of Arizona-led team reports in an upcoming issue of Nature Communications. The team was the first to document that the extreme increase in sea level lasted two years, not just a few months. "The thing that stands out is the time extent of this event as well ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Sea_level_spiked_for_2_years_along_northeastern_North_America_999.html
Tucson AZ (SPX) Feb 26, 2015 - Sea levels from New York to Newfoundland jumped up about four inches in 2009 and 2010 because ocean circulation changed, a University of Arizona-led team reports in an upcoming issue of Nature Communications. The team was the first to document that the extreme increase in sea level lasted two years, not just a few months. "The thing that stands out is the time extent of this event as well ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Sea_level_spiked_for_2_years_along_northeastern_North_America_999.html
Potential first direct observation of CO2 effect at the Earth's surface
Potential first direct observation of CO2 effect at the Earth's surface
Berkeley CA (SPX) Feb 26, 2015 - Scientists have observed an increase in carbon dioxide's greenhouse effect at the Earth's surface for the first time. The researchers, led by scientists from the US Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab), measured atmospheric carbon dioxide's increasing capacity to absorb thermal radiation emitted from the Earth's surface over an eleven-year period at two loc ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/First_direct_observation_of_carbon_dioxides_increasing_greenhouse_effect_at_the_Earths_surface_999.html
Berkeley CA (SPX) Feb 26, 2015 - Scientists have observed an increase in carbon dioxide's greenhouse effect at the Earth's surface for the first time. The researchers, led by scientists from the US Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab), measured atmospheric carbon dioxide's increasing capacity to absorb thermal radiation emitted from the Earth's surface over an eleven-year period at two loc ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/First_direct_observation_of_carbon_dioxides_increasing_greenhouse_effect_at_the_Earths_surface_999.html
A Stock to Play China’s Nuclear Boom
A Stock to Play China’s Nuclear Boom
A fall in CGN Power shares since its IPO offers an entry for those keen to profit from Beijing’s clean energy push.
http://online.barrons.com/news/articles/SB51367578116875004693704580483322090723774
Russia to train Indian nuclear specialists
Russia to train Indian nuclear specialists
http://in.rbth.com/news/2015/02/26/russia_to_train_indian_nuclear_specialists_41631.html
Washington Has Destroyed Trust Between Nuclear Powers, Thus Raising The Specter Of Nuclear War
Washington Has Destroyed Trust Between Nuclear Powers, Thus Raising The Specter Of Nuclear War
http://www.globalresearch.ca/washington-has-destroyed-trust-between-nuclear-powers-thus-raising-the-specter-of-war/5433578
S. Korea, Czech Republic upgrade ties to strategic partnership
S. Korea, Czech Republic upgrade ties to strategic partnership
http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20150226000641
UPDATE 1-S.Korea's nuclear watchdog approves restart of second-oldest reactor
UPDATE 1-S.Korea's nuclear watchdog approves restart of second-oldest reactor
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/02/26/southkorea-nuclear-idUKL4N0W058D20150226
Electric Power Convention April 21-13
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NRC Science 101 – About Spent Nuclear Fuel Part II
NRC Science 101 – About Spent Nuclear Fuel Part II
Posted by on February 26, 2015
Greg Casto
Branch Chief
Division of Reactor Safety Systems
Our last post
talked about the fuel that powers nuclear reactors. Today, we’ll talk
about what happens to that fuel when it’s removed from a reactor.
You’ll recall that fuel becomes very hot and very radioactive as it is used in the reactor core to heat water. After about five years, the fuel is no longer useful and is removed. Reactor operators have to manage the heat and radioactivity that remains in the “spent fuel” after it’s taken out of the reactor. In the U.S., every reactor has at least one pool on the plant site where spent fuel is placed for storage. Plant personnel move the spent fuel underwater from the reactor to the pool. Over time, as the spent fuel is stored in the pool, it becomes cooler as the radioactivity decays away.
These pools contain an enormous quantity of water—enough to cover the fuel by about 20 feet. The water serves two purposes: it cools the fuel and shields workers at the plant from radioactivity. Having 20 feet of water above the fuel means there is a lot more water than is needed for cooling and shielding the workers. Also, because of the extra water and the simple design of the pool, there is a lot of time for plant personnel to add water to the pool if needed for any reason.
The
pools are built to meet strict NRC safety requirements. They have very
thick, steel-reinforced concrete walls and stainless-steel liners, and
are protected by security personnel. There are no drains that would
allow the water level to drop or the pool to become empty. The plants
have a variety of extra water sources and equipment to replenish water
that evaporates over time, or in case there is a leak. Plant personnel
are also trained and prepared to quickly respond to a problem. They keep
their skills sharp by routinely practicing their emergency plans and
procedures.
When the plants were designed, the pools were intended to provide temporary onsite storage. The idea was for the spent fuel to sit in the pool for a few years to cool before it would be shipped offsite to be “reprocessed,” or separated so usable portions could be recycled into new fuel. But reprocessing didn’t end up being an option for nuclear power plants and the pools began to fill up.
In the early 1980s, nuclear plants began to look for ways to increase the amount of spent fuel they could store at the plant site. One way was to replace spent fuel storage racks in the pools with racks containing a special material that allowed spent fuel to be packed closer together. Another way was to place older, cooler and less radioactive fuel in dry storage casks that could be stored in specially built facilities at the plant site. We’ll talk more about dry spent fuel storage in future blog posts.
Most plants today use both re-designed storage racks and dry storage facilities to store spent fuel. All storage methods must be reviewed in detail and approved by the NRC before a plant is allowed to change storage methods.
Branch Chief
Division of Reactor Safety Systems
Our last post
talked about the fuel that powers nuclear reactors. Today, we’ll talk
about what happens to that fuel when it’s removed from a reactor.You’ll recall that fuel becomes very hot and very radioactive as it is used in the reactor core to heat water. After about five years, the fuel is no longer useful and is removed. Reactor operators have to manage the heat and radioactivity that remains in the “spent fuel” after it’s taken out of the reactor. In the U.S., every reactor has at least one pool on the plant site where spent fuel is placed for storage. Plant personnel move the spent fuel underwater from the reactor to the pool. Over time, as the spent fuel is stored in the pool, it becomes cooler as the radioactivity decays away.
These pools contain an enormous quantity of water—enough to cover the fuel by about 20 feet. The water serves two purposes: it cools the fuel and shields workers at the plant from radioactivity. Having 20 feet of water above the fuel means there is a lot more water than is needed for cooling and shielding the workers. Also, because of the extra water and the simple design of the pool, there is a lot of time for plant personnel to add water to the pool if needed for any reason.
The
pools are built to meet strict NRC safety requirements. They have very
thick, steel-reinforced concrete walls and stainless-steel liners, and
are protected by security personnel. There are no drains that would
allow the water level to drop or the pool to become empty. The plants
have a variety of extra water sources and equipment to replenish water
that evaporates over time, or in case there is a leak. Plant personnel
are also trained and prepared to quickly respond to a problem. They keep
their skills sharp by routinely practicing their emergency plans and
procedures.When the plants were designed, the pools were intended to provide temporary onsite storage. The idea was for the spent fuel to sit in the pool for a few years to cool before it would be shipped offsite to be “reprocessed,” or separated so usable portions could be recycled into new fuel. But reprocessing didn’t end up being an option for nuclear power plants and the pools began to fill up.
In the early 1980s, nuclear plants began to look for ways to increase the amount of spent fuel they could store at the plant site. One way was to replace spent fuel storage racks in the pools with racks containing a special material that allowed spent fuel to be packed closer together. Another way was to place older, cooler and less radioactive fuel in dry storage casks that could be stored in specially built facilities at the plant site. We’ll talk more about dry spent fuel storage in future blog posts.
Most plants today use both re-designed storage racks and dry storage facilities to store spent fuel. All storage methods must be reviewed in detail and approved by the NRC before a plant is allowed to change storage methods.
Fukushima Update 2/26/15
Fukushima Update 2/26/15 –
Sunday’s short-lived radiation alarm has touched off a news media feeding frenzy… Area radiation levels in Kawamata have been cut in half… Tepco may stop requiring full face-masks for some F. Daiichi decommissioning work… The antinuclear base-camp in Tokyo is ordered to be taken down… No accident Plutonium has been found in the Pacific Ocean seabed… Naoto Kan preaches his antinuclear gospel in Paris… Fukushima’s governor has approved the movement of rural radioactive wastes… Die-hard antinukes in Tokyo refuse to believe the worst of the nuke accident has passed.
http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.
Sunday’s short-lived radiation alarm has touched off a news media feeding frenzy… Area radiation levels in Kawamata have been cut in half… Tepco may stop requiring full face-masks for some F. Daiichi decommissioning work… The antinuclear base-camp in Tokyo is ordered to be taken down… No accident Plutonium has been found in the Pacific Ocean seabed… Naoto Kan preaches his antinuclear gospel in Paris… Fukushima’s governor has approved the movement of rural radioactive wastes… Die-hard antinukes in Tokyo refuse to believe the worst of the nuke accident has passed.
http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.
Reducing French nuclear share not most important issue of new energy law-minister
Reducing French nuclear share not most important issue of new energy law-minister
http://af.reuters.com/article/commoditiesNews/idAFL5N0VX2OB20150223Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Llewellyn King: Those Were The Days – The Life and Times of Former AEC Commissioner Wm. Doub By Llewellyn King
Llewellyn King: Those Were The Days – The Life and Times of Former AEC Commissioner Wm. Doub
By Llewellyn King
http://www.nucleartownhall.com/blog/llewellyn-king-those-were-the-days-the-life-and-times-of-former-aec-commissioner-wm-doub/
Obama's Keystone Veto Message: "If You've Got a Business, You Can't Build That Infrastructure Project"
Posted: 24 Feb 2015 08:59 PM PST
President
Barack Obama has vetoed a bipartisan Congressional piece of legislation
that aims to finally approve the Keystone XL pipeline project at the
Federal level. Why does the President continue to block and delay this
energy project’s permit decision?read morehttp://theenergycollective.com/jemillerep/2198146/president-obama-s-keystone-xl-pipeline-veto-message-if-you-ve-got-business-you-ca
Preventing Sea Level Rise in New York City While Cleaning the Air in India and China
Posted: 25 Feb 2015 05:00 AM PST
The
New York City Panel on Climate Change predicted a hot and stormy future
for the city. They are spending $20 billion to help ensure it can adapt
to a more difficult future, but if the panel's prediction of two feet
of sea level rise comes to pass, we will need many multiples of $20
billion to protect New York.read morehttp://theenergycollective.com/stevenacohen/2197861/preventing-sea-level-rise-new-york-city-while-cleaning-air-india-and-china
What Snowmageddon 2015 Is Showing Boston About Building Efficiency
Posted: 25 Feb 2015 09:00 AM PST
The
Boston area is locked in one of the snowiest winters on record, and
nearly every home, condominium and apartment building in the Northeast
is adorned with icicles, which are hugely troubling from an
environmental perspective. Ice on roofs speaks volumes about how easily
heat is escaping from buildings.read morehttp://theenergycollective.com/matt-conway/2197876/what-snowmageddon-2015-showing-boston-about-building-efficiency
Hungarian Nuclear Power Plant Joins EPRI's Nuclear Research Program
Hungarian
Nuclear Power Plant Joins EPRI's Nuclear Research Program - See more
at:
http://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2015/02/25/709767/10121922/en/Hungarian-Nuclear-Power-Plant-Joins-EPRI-s-Nuclear-Research-Program.html#sthash.stPx0NYT.dpuf
http://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2015/02/25/709767/10121922/en/Hungarian-Nuclear-Power-Plant-Joins-EPRI-s-Nuclear-Research-Program.html
Pennsylvania nuclear power plant in 'Hot Shutdown' over valve closure
Pennsylvania nuclear power plant in 'Hot Shutdown' over valve closure
http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/breaking-news/index.ssf/2015/02/pennsylvania_nuclear_power_pla.html
ANS Update: Belgian Doel 3 and Tihange 2 Back in the News
Belgian Doel 3 and Tihange 2 Back in the NewsBy ansnuclearcafe on Feb 25, 2015 11:00 amThe years-long saga surrounding the reactor pressure vessels at the Doel NPP Unit 3 and Tihange NPP Unit 2 has taken another turn, pushing these units back into the broader Continue Reading → Read in browser »   |
Fukushima Commentary 2/25/25 – Japan’s latest source of radiophobia – Rainwater!
Fukushima Commentary 2/25/25 –
Japan’s latest source of radiophobia – Rainwater!
Fear of radiation in Japan has reached a new low. Now, it’s small, biologically-harmless amounts of radioactive material being flushed away by rainwater. It seems that every time it rains in Fukushima, Tepco will be forced to warn everyone that an ensuing, harmless-but-detectible release of rainwater run-off is possible. Now, Japan’s radiophobic demographic has a new source of nuclear angst…rainwater.
http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.
Japan’s latest source of radiophobia – Rainwater!
Fear of radiation in Japan has reached a new low. Now, it’s small, biologically-harmless amounts of radioactive material being flushed away by rainwater. It seems that every time it rains in Fukushima, Tepco will be forced to warn everyone that an ensuing, harmless-but-detectible release of rainwater run-off is possible. Now, Japan’s radiophobic demographic has a new source of nuclear angst…rainwater.
http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.
AEM-Technologies meets milestone for Rostov 4
AEM-Technologies meets milestone for Rostov 4
The Volgodonsk branch of AEM-Technologies has completed a "key stage" in the manufacture of a steam generator for unit 4 of the Rostov nuclear power plant, packing the 11,000 stainless steel heat exchange pipes.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-AEM-Technology-meets-milestone-for-Rostov-4-2502201501.html
The Volgodonsk branch of AEM-Technologies has completed a "key stage" in the manufacture of a steam generator for unit 4 of the Rostov nuclear power plant, packing the 11,000 stainless steel heat exchange pipes.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-AEM-Technology-meets-milestone-for-Rostov-4-2502201501.html
Funding for waste-handling robotics development
Funding for waste-handling robotics development
A project to develop new robotic techniques for use in the autonomous handling of radioactive wastes is among those recently selected for funding by the European Commission.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-Funding-for-waste-handling-robotics-development-2502154.html
A project to develop new robotic techniques for use in the autonomous handling of radioactive wastes is among those recently selected for funding by the European Commission.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-Funding-for-waste-handling-robotics-development-2502154.html
Europe launches its Energy Union
Europe launches its Energy Union
The 28 member states of the European Union are to integrate their markets and increase security of supply under a policy set known as the Energy Union. Investments of €200 billion per year are expected over the nest decade.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-Europe-launches-its-Energy-Union-2502151.html
The 28 member states of the European Union are to integrate their markets and increase security of supply under a policy set known as the Energy Union. Investments of €200 billion per year are expected over the nest decade.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-Europe-launches-its-Energy-Union-2502151.html
Toyota unveils fuel-cell car assembly line
Toyota unveils fuel-cell car assembly line
Toyota, Japan (AFP) Feb 24, 2015 - Toyota President Akio Toyoda on Tuesday unveiled the assembly line that is making the first mass market fuel-cell car. The world's biggest carmaker plans to produce 700 units of the four-door Mirai sedan - powered by hydrogen and emitting nothing but water vapour from its tailpipe - by the end of December. Production of the car whose name means "future" in Japanese is scheduled to expa ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Toyota_unveils_fuel-cell_car_assembly_line_999.html
Toyota, Japan (AFP) Feb 24, 2015 - Toyota President Akio Toyoda on Tuesday unveiled the assembly line that is making the first mass market fuel-cell car. The world's biggest carmaker plans to produce 700 units of the four-door Mirai sedan - powered by hydrogen and emitting nothing but water vapour from its tailpipe - by the end of December. Production of the car whose name means "future" in Japanese is scheduled to expa ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Toyota_unveils_fuel-cell_car_assembly_line_999.html
Building a New Reactor: Part II—More on Cintichem
Building a New Reactor: Part II—More on Cintichem
http://nuclearstreet.com/pro_nuclear_power_blogs/b/science-history-nuclear/archive/2015/02/24/building-a-new-reactor-part-ii.aspx
Nuclear Advocate Pushes For Modular Reactor Presence In Washington State
Nuclear Advocate Pushes For Modular Reactor Presence In Washington State
http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2015/02/25/nuclear-advocate-pushes-for-modular-reactor-presence-in-washington-state-022502.aspx#.VO4wFC5mrmd
NRC Inspectors Looking Into V.C. Summer "Inadvertent" Rebar Cut
NRC Inspectors Looking Into V.C. Summer "Inadvertent" Rebar Cut
http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2015/02/24/nrc-inspectors-looking-into-v.c.-summer-_2200_inadvertent_2200_-rebar-cut-022402.aspx#.VO4v6S5mrmd
Taipower launches overseas reprocessing tender
Taipower launches overseas reprocessing tender
http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/WR-Taipower-launches-overseas-reprocessing-tender-1902155.html#.VO0jBd1YMok.linkedin
Final Nuclear Deal And Iran-China Relations – OpEd
Final Nuclear Deal And Iran-China Relations – OpEd
http://www.eurasiareview.com/24022015-final-nuclear-deal-and-iran-china-relations-oped/
China calls for confidence over Iran nuclear issue
China calls for confidence over Iran nuclear issue
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2015-02/25/c_134017582.htm
China’s take on the Iranian Nuclear Talks
http://www.turkishweekly.net/news/180807/china-s-take-on-the-iranian-nuclear-talks.html
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2015-02/25/c_134017582.htm
China’s take on the Iranian Nuclear Talks
http://www.turkishweekly.net/news/180807/china-s-take-on-the-iranian-nuclear-talks.html
From Health Care to Energy: Majority of Americans Pay More, Get Less Under Obama | Commentary By Rep. John Shimkus
From Health Care to Energy: Majority of Americans Pay More, Get Less Under Obama | Commentary
By Rep. John Shimkus
http://www.rollcall.com/news/from_health_care_to_energy_majority_of_americans_pay_more_get_less_under-240289-1.html
State wants decades of records on LANL’s handling of nuke waste
State wants decades of records on LANL’s handling of nuke waste
http://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/state-demands-decade-of-records-on-lanl-s-nuke-waste/article_e13b277a-a910-5587-b103-72a3bda9b7c8.html
Southern Co. CEO bullish on new nuclear plants, despite recent delays
Southern Co. CEO bullish on new nuclear plants, despite recent delays
http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/blog/energy/2015/02/southern-co-ceo-bullish-on-new-nuclear-plants.html
Does Obama’s Keystone Veto Matter?
Does Obama’s Keystone Veto Matter?
The Keystone XL pipeline is a distraction from what’s really needed to solve climate change.
http://www.technologyreview.com/view/535416/does-obamas-keystone-veto-matter/?utm_campaign=newsletters&utm_source=newsletter-daily-all&utm_medium=email&utm_content=20150225
Energy Quote of the Day: Oil Sands Industry Must Cut Costs or Face ‘Death Spiral’
Energy Quote of the Day: Oil Sands Industry Must Cut Costs or Face ‘Death Spiral’
By Edward Dodge
The
President of one of Canada’s biggest oil and gas producers warned the
oil sands industry that they must cut costs or face a “death spiral”.
The drop in oil prices is an “opportunity” for every part of the
industry to cut costs and eliminate inefficiencies that crept into the
system during years of high
Reducing French nuclear share not most important issue of new energy law-minister
Reducing French nuclear share not most important issue of new energy law-minister
http://af.reuters.com/article/commoditiesNews/idAFL5N0VX2OB20150223
The Wide-Ranging Benefits Of American Energy
The Wide-Ranging Benefits Of American Energy
By Energy Tomorrow Blog
Natural
Gas Inventory Exceeds Five-Year Average for First Time Since Nov. 2013
EIA Today in Energy: Working natural gas in storage has surpassed
five-year average levels for the first time in more than a year. At
2,157 billion cubic feet (Bcf) as of February 13, stocks are 58 Bcf
greater than the five-year average. Recent
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Atomic Show #233 – Innovators discuss advanced reactor development in US
Atomic Show #233 – Innovators discuss advanced reactor development in US
http://atomicinsights.com/atomic-show-233-innovators-discuss-advanced-reactor-development-in-us/Alone in the Zone
Alone in the Zone
Watch the new documentary Alone in the Zone, produced by VICE Japan for
their YouTube channel.
Text by Tomo Kosuga
Interview and photos by Ivan Kovac and Jeffrey Jousan
Article translated from the Japanese by Luke Baker
Today marks the second anniversary of the earthquake that devastated
Japan and caused one of the most serious nuclear disasters in world
history, when the Fukushima ...
Show More
http://www.vice.com/video/radioactive-man
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