Description of Radioactive Waste Disposal in JAPAN

Several types of disposal facilities have been designed according to the radioactivity levels of the wastes.

Near-surface Disposal (Trench Type)

Very low-level radioactive wastes are placed in shallow, unlined trenches and then covered with soil.

Near-surface Disposal (Concrete Pit Type)

After low-level radioactive wastes are placed in concrete pits, mortar is poured into the spaces between the wastes. The pits are enclosed with low water permeability soil in order to prevent groundwater from flowing into the pits.

Sub-surface Disposal

Relatively high-level radioactive wastes are disposed of at a depth of 50–100 meters below the surface of the ground, while maintaining enough distance from general underground use.

Geological Disposal

High-level radioactive wastes are disposed of in concrete constructs at least 300 m below the surface of the ground.

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