Session: 02-01 Dismantling & Waste Segregation

Paper Number: 110069

110069 - Decommissioning of the Br3 Biological Shield: The Use of Diamond Wire Cutting and Robot Drilling Aiming for Clearance of the Concrete 

The BR3 pilot PWR has reached the latest stages of its decommissioning, which includes the removal of the activated concrete of the biological shield. An extensive characterization through in-situ measurements, sampling combined with ex-situ measurements and 3D modelling supported the strategy aiming for release of the entire volume of concrete following the Belgian regulatory framework in terms of generic and specific clearance. The on-going dismantling mainly uses two types of mechanical segmentation techniques, namely robot drilling and diamond wire cutting. Aspects of stability, safety and radiological protection have been taken into account during planning and implementation of the subsequent phases. Works are on-going as scheduled, with one out of three walls already removed and the completion of the dismantling of the outer biological shield during 2023. Return on experience and results in terms of efficiency and waste types and volumes will be explained and demonstrated visually.

SCK CEN has a proven track record in (reactor) decommissioning, with experience gained on different aspects that has been used for large industrial projects. The on-going activities on the biological shield show the efficient, safe and sustainable approach in terms of material removal, which no doubt also will be an inspiration for further use.

Presenting Author: Kurt Van Den Dungen SCK CEN

Presenting Author Biography: Kurt Van den Dungen obtained a Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering, and joined the Belgian Nuclear Research Center in 2005 to become actively involved in the field of decommissioning, more specifically with a focus on decontamination and dismantling.

He is currently in projects on chemical decontamination, management of radioactive effluents and liquid metals, and will present the latest update on the status of the BR3 bioshield decommissioning.