Potential for British research into the transmutation of radioactive wastes and problematic nuclear materials

Issues concerning the management of the UK's official radioactive wastes and associated surplus radioactive materials are summarised. The potential for partitioning and transmutation (P&T) of these materials is considered and associated potential developments discussed. The paper recommends international P&T research as part of a move to reduce the volume of nuclear waste. This reduction would be beneficial in addressing security and environmental concerns, as well as improving public acceptance of the back-end of the nuclear fuel cycle.