Power/Energy: Bugs in the nuclear fuel cycle: Stalled in its ¿back end¿ because of economic and safeguarding uncertainties, the cycle hinges on disposal of high-level nuclear waste

摘要

Unless prompt and effective actions are taken for the safeguarding and handling of nuclear fuels, the use of nuclear fission energy will be limited. Whereas risks associated with nuclear reactors have been quantified and put in perspective, questions remain about risks associated with the safeguarding and handling of the nuclear fuels themselves. As a result, little progress is being made in the `back end' of the fuel cycle-that which includes temporary storage of spent fuel, reprocessing of spent fuel, and waste storage and/or disposal.