The decommissioning of nuclear sites represents a major global challenge. There is an urgent and ongoing need to reduce the significant expense of decommissioning, whilst ensuring safe practice and public confidence. Effective decommissioning relies on a variety of reliable traceable measurement techniques from a whole range of disciplines, including:
NPL has invested in building strategic national capability and undertaken collaborative research and development to create a wide range of measurement and consulting services that can support effective and efficient nuclear decommissioning. These services can be accessed either as commercial contract or via a range of externally funded collaborations. Please contact us to discuss how NPL can support your nuclear decommissioning process.
NPL provides a wide range of traceable measurement techniques to support nuclear decommissioning. Understanding the status of the waste involves accurately measuring the radioactivity as well as monitoring the long-term monitoring of the storage containers and any degradation. Our services include:
Nuclear measurement - regularly and accurately measuring the ionising radiation of nuclear waste.
Corrosion measurements - ensuring that the containment is fit for purpose using NDT and corrosion data.
Moisture content - monitoring the moisture of the waste to understand the environment and ensure the waste is safe.
Thermal imaging and temperature measurements - measuring the temperature of the waste from a distance using non contact remote temperature measurements and thermal imaging.
Materials characterisation - understanding the microstructure of containment materials to ensure they maintain their properties and to develop new materials.
Underwater inspection - ensuring safe storage under water and monitoring the status of the containment materials.
Our research and measurement solutions support innovation and product development. We work with companies to deliver business advantage and commercial success.
Contact our Customer Services team on +44 20 8943 7070