Spent (irradiated) fuel elements (cartridges) of nuclear reactors

cpc code 33720 covers the industry responsible for the management and disposal of spent (irradiated) fuel elements from nuclear reactors. This industry plays a critical role in the nuclear power sector, ensuring the safe and responsible handling of radioactive waste materials that are a byproduct of nuclear energy generation. The proper management of these spent fuel elements is essential for maintaining the sustainability and environmental safety of nuclear power as a key energy source within the broader economy.

The main production techniques involved in this industry include the removal of spent fuel elements from nuclear reactors, the temporary storage and cooling of these elements, and the eventual reprocessing or permanent disposal of the radioactive waste. Spent fuel elements are typically stored in specially designed pools or dry cask storage facilities to allow for the decay of radioactivity before being transported to reprocessing plants or geological disposal sites.

The key inputs required for this industry include the spent fuel elements themselves, which are generated by 26200 Nuclear power plants, as well as specialized storage and transportation equipment, such as casks, containers, and handling machinery. Additionally, this industry relies on advanced technologies and expertise in nuclear engineering, radiation protection, and waste management to ensure the safe and efficient handling of these radioactive materials.

The primary output of this industry is the safe and responsible disposal or storage of spent nuclear fuel elements, which are no longer suitable for use in nuclear reactors. The spent fuel elements may be reprocessed to extract and recycle usable materials, or they may be permanently disposed of in deep geological repositories. The outputs of this industry are essential for supporting the continued operation of 26200 Nuclear power plants and the broader nuclear power sector.