Myths vs Realities (part 2)

This is continuation from previous post, Myths vs Realities (part 1).

Myth: Even if put into a geological repository, the waste might emerge and threaten future generations.

Reality: Radiation scientists, geologists and engineers have produced detailed plans for safe underground storage of nuclear waste and some are now operating. Geological repositories are designed to ensure that harmful radiation would not reach the surface even with severe earthquakes or the passage of time.

Myth: Man-made radiation differs from natural radiation.

Reality: Radiation emitted from manmade radionuclides is exactly the same form as radiation emitted from naturally-occurring radioactive materials (namely alpha, beta or gamma radiation).

Myth: Nobody knows the true costs of waste management. The costs are so high that nuclear power can never be economic.

Reality: The costs are dependent on the waste level management. It is true the cost is high, but the revenue is higher than the waste produced, which makes nuclear power economic.

Myth: The waste should be disposed of into space.

Reality: This option is high in cost and also there is concern on safety aspects associated with the risk of launch failure.

Myth: Nuclear waste should be transmuted into harmless materials.

Reality: Transmutation is not feasible for all of the wastes produced in the past or to be produced. Transmutation may be able to reduce waste quantities but it will do it only to a certain extent and therefore not eliminate the need for disposal.

The End :)

Resources: Radioactive Wastes - Myths and Realities