Characterization and Classification
Accurate and systematic actions are crucial in radioactive waste management to ensure correct and reliable results. The initial step for any successful waste management project is proper characterization, NRC classification, and DOT classification. At WMG, we pride ourselves as the industry leader in providing defensible characterization and classification results.
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Characterization aims to determine waste weight, volume, and activity for each radionuclide present in the radioactive material. NRC and DOT classification is then determined based on extensive rules and laws governing radioactive waste transportation and disposal.
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Proper characterization and classification results are essential for successful project planning, including shielding and packaging of radioactive material. At WMG, we specialize in non-routine waste characterization generated by commercial and decommissioning power plants for the past 40 years. Our expertise in characterizing routine waste streams also allows us to provide unparalleled services for any radioactive material.
Routine Radioactive Material
Since the introduction of 10 CFR 61, WMG has been simplifying the characterization and classification process for commercial nuclear utilities' routine plant wastes. We stay actively engaged in the development and enhancement of regulations governing these activities to ensure that utility perspectives are appropriately considered and represented in both NRC and DOT regulatory processes.
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In addition, we are pleased to provide characterization and classification analysis for routine projects. Perhaps the customer lacks the resources or simply prefers to have the industry-leading experts perform this service.
Non-Routine Radioactive Material
At WMG, non-routine projects refer to unique scenarios such as large or rare components, unusual waste streams, or legacy waste where the desired data may not have been collected or retained. These projects typically require innovative solutions for characterization, shielding, and packaging.
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We take great pride in providing services for non-routine projects, as they allow us to exercise our creativity and apply our expertise in radioactive waste management to unique and challenging scenarios.
Irradiated Components
Our expert analysts are industry leaders in irradiated components and are committed to providing accurate and reliable results. Metals exposed to neutron flux should generally be classified as irradiated components, and assessing the activation concentrations levels necessitates collaboration across multiple engineering disciplines, including mechanical and nuclear engineering. Our team is renowned for their expertise in this field and strives to maintain industry leadership in providing this service. Common examples of irradiated components include BWR Control Rod Blades, Reactor Vessels & Internals, as well as Nuclear Instrumentation from both BWRs and PWRs, such as LPRMs, excore detectors, and Reactor Vessel and Internals.