Background Information for the Development of a Low-Level Waste Performance Assessment Methodology: Selection and Integration of Models.

摘要

The document describes the identification, evaluation, and selection of models (as opposed to computer codes) required to assess the effects of radionuclide releases from low-level waste facilities. The document also demonstrates how these models can be integrated into a performance assessment methodology for use by the NRC in evaluating license applications for disposal of low-level waste. The first step in the model-selection process is to identify the mechanisms that govern release and transport of radionuclides from a low-level waste facility. The next step is to review existing models that account for the appropriate mechanisms, and based on the review and evaluation, the most appropriate models are selected. The models considered include source-term release, air transport, surface-water transport, ground-water flow and transport, food-chain transport, and dosimetry. Models have been selected for each of these categories. Also, areas where models are considered inadequate for a performance assessment have been identified.