Multi-stage Supercompaction of Large Low-level Waste Components

This paper demonstrates that multi-stage compaction (supercompaction) (high-force compaction) has an important role to play in treating metallic LLW. A specialized shear/compactor can produce significant labor and burial cost savings, as well as better operational safety and environmental protection. A case study is the supercompaction facility presently nearing completion at the DOE East Tennessee Technology Park--ETTP--(formerly, the K-25 Gaseous Diffusion Plant) in Oak Ridge. The facility will initially process some 63,000 tons of mainly metallic materials arising from the D&D clean-up project presently being undertaken by BNFL Inc. for the DOE. These materials cannot be economically recycled and prior to burial disposal will be supercompacted with up to 7:1 volume reduction. The paper will confirm progress toward facility handover to production in October 2000.