Defense Waste and Transportation Management (DWTM) Primer, DOE/DP-0058
Washington, DC: United States Department of Energy, 1988. Presumed first edition/first printing. Wraps. [2], [2], 44 p. Includes: illustrations, diagrams. Glossary. From an EPA website: "Transuranic (TRU) waste materials have been generated in the U.S. since the 1940's. Most of this waste originates from nuclear weapons production facilities for defense programs. "Transuranic" refers to atoms of man-made elements that are heavier (higher in atomic number) than uranium. The most prominent element in most TRU waste is plutonium. Some TRU waste consists of items such as rags, tools, and laboratory equipment contaminated with radioactive materials. Other forms of TRU waste include organic and inorganic residues or even entire enclosed contaminated cases in which radioactive materials were handled. Some TRU waste emits high levels of penetrating radiation; this type requires protective shielding. However, most TRU waste does not emit high levels of penetrating radiation but poses a danger when small particles of it are inhaled or ingested. The radiation from the particles is damaging to lung tissue and internal organs. As long as this type of TRU waste remains enclosed and contained, it can be handled safely. Another problem with TRU waste is that most of its radioactive elements are long-lived. That is, they stay radioactive for a long time. For example, half of the original amount of plutonium-239 in the waste will remain harmful after 24, 000 years. Disposal must be carefully planned so that the waste poses no undue threat to public health or the environment for years to come." This document was prepared by Management Systems Laboratories of VIrginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Condition: Very good. No dust jacket. Cover has slight wear and soling.
Keywords: Defense Nuclear Waste; Transuranics; Environmental Restoration; Waste Disposal; Waste Treatment; Waste Storage; Hazardous Material Transportation; Waste Packaging.
[Book #68581]
Price: $45.00