The expected condition of spent LWR (light-water reactor) fuel on delivery to a repository

The inventory of spent light-water reactor (LWR) fuel that is currently destined for disposal in a repository is steadily increasing. In the US, LWRs include boiling water reactors (BWRs) and pressurized water reactors (PWRs). A fuel assembly is normally comprised of fuel rods containing uranium oxide fuel pellets in Zircaloy cladding and nonfuel-bearing components, including spacer grids, end fittings, and water tubes in BWR fuel assemblies or control rod guide tubes in PWR fuel assemblies. The fuel cladding is the primary barrier preventing release of particulates of radioactive fuel and fission gases. Hence, integrity of fuel cladding is an important consideration in various stages of planning for spent fuel storage/transportation/disposal. Another consideration is the integrity of nonfuel-bearing components as failure of, or damage to, the components may complicate handling/storing/transporting/disposing of fuel assemblies. Regulation of spent fuel storage at US commercial LWRs and away-from-reactor facilities is addressed under 10 CFR 50{sup b} and 10 CFR 72, respectively. 21 refs., 1 fig.