Final repository for reactor waste

 Waste generated during the running of the power plant and during annual outages is called reactor waste. This is further divided into low-level and intermediate-level waste.

Low-level waste is miscellaneous waste contaminated with radioactive material, such as fireproof fabrics, the protective plastic sheeting and protective clothing used in maintenance work, and equipment parts and pipes removed from the power plant. Low-level waste is packed into 200-litre drums and compressed to half of its original volume in a hydraulic press.

Intermediate-level waste consists of the ion exchange resins used to clean the process water. They are dried, mixed with bitumen and cast into 200-litre drums.

Low-level and intermediate-level waste is stored in the final repository or VLJ cave at the power plant site. The waste, packed in concrete boxes, is transported to the cave by vehicle and placed in separate silos for both types of waste, excavated in the bedrock 60 to 100 m below ground level.