Subseabed radioactive waste disposal feasibility program: ocean engineering challenges for the 80's

Abstract

The objective of the Subseabed Disposal Program is to assess the feasibility of disposing of high-level radioactive wastes or spent fuel in suitable geologic formations beneath the deep ocean floor. The program is entering a phase which will address engineering feasibility. While• the current phase of the program to determin~ the scientific and environmental feasibility of the concept is not yet complete, activities to assess the engineering aspects are being initiuted in parallel Lo fa~ilitate the development of the concept on a time scale commensurate with related programs both in the United States and abroad. It is anticipated that engineering aspects will.become the central focus of the program during the early 80's and will continue so through the establishment of a pilot-plant level activity which could occur by the mid-90's.