METHODOLOGY FOR EVALUATING CRITICALITY POTENTIAL OF FISSIONABLE MATERIAL EMPLACED IN THE PROPOSED REPOSITORY AT YUCCA MOUNTAIN

摘要

A risk-informed methodology is presented for performing postclosure criticality analyses forrnspent nuclear fuel and high-level waste in the proposed repository at Yucca Mountain, Nevada.rnThe methodology provides a systematic approach for evaluating a combined system of a wasternform, waste package, engineered barrier, and repository. Design criteria are presented forrnassuring that design options are properly implemented for minimizing the potential for, andrnconsequences of criticality following permanent closure of the repository. This methodology isrnto be used during the licensing process to demonstrate that the risks from a potential criticalityrnare minimized and that public health and safety are protected against postclosure criticality. Thernneutronic models contained in the methodology are described and the validation process forrnassuring the adequacy of these models is also illustrated.