NEWS
ICRP Recommendations - 2007
User’s Edition
This lower-cost version includes the full text of the actual Recommendations
(pp. 1 – 135) but not the scientific Annexes with background data (pp. 137 – 332); it can be ordered at: http://intl.elsevierhealth.com/catalogue/
Bulk orders and/or sponsored copies
Significant discounts are available if you wish to purchase a number of copies, e.g., for your employees, or regulators may wish to distribute copies to licensees. It is also possible if desired to discuss overprinting the cover with your logo on a print run (however, ICRP reserves the right to edit or reject specific proposals). For more information about these options, please contact Sarah Cahill at our publisher’s, at: s.cahill@elsevier.com
Special discount options and translations
Developing countries
In about 100 countries, the reports of ICRP (and many other scientific publications) are available at little or no cost through the ‘HINARI’ programme. In order to investigate whether you qualify for this programme, and to register, please visit: http://www.who.int/hinari/en/
IRPA Associated Societies
If your IRPA Associated Society has made the appropriate deal with our publishers and ICRP, there is a discount for members. For more information, please see: http://www.icrp.org/freepubl.asp
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Split personality of CPM – Nuclear Deal
On and off on the record, the Communist Party of India (CPM) has been supporting and opposing the Indo-US nuclear deal. As the first stage of operationalizing the deal, India has started negotiating with the IAEA, the safeguards aspects of the deal. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is also playing its own game by asking the Prime Minister to intervene during the on-going debate on the deal at the Rajya Sabha. One of the so-called specialists, is cautioning the government about the possibility of the restrictive clauses of Hyde Act and the 123 Agreement in the safeguards pact.
As per the results of the opinion poll of a leading news paper in India, the Indian “janata” wants the deal to come through so that the environmentally clean nuclear power sector can contribute significantly to the Indian power mix in the future. At the same time, let the Thorium Fuel Cycle take a leading role in nuclear power programs being envisaged by the country.
As per the results of the opinion poll of a leading news paper in India, the Indian “janata” wants the deal to come through so that the environmentally clean nuclear power sector can contribute significantly to the Indian power mix in the future. At the same time, let the Thorium Fuel Cycle take a leading role in nuclear power programs being envisaged by the country.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Why India should go for Thorium fuel Cycle?
Developed countries in the west are not blessed with large thorium deposits while uranium could be procured easily from the mines of Canada, South Africa and Australia for the Light-Water Reactors (LWR). That seems to be main reason why the thorium fuel cycle was not pursued with vigor in the west and uranium fuel cycle served the purpose of power generation and for producing plutonium for nuclear weapons. It is definitely low-risk development of choice with inherent safety. However, the generation of large amounts of high-level waste, including trans-plutonics and their ultimate disposal became an emotive subject worldwide.
India is one of the very few blessed countries with large deposits of thorium right on the beaches of the States Kerala and Orissa. But somehow, the high technology required for thorium fuel cycle didn’t take off earlier probably due to the “sanctions” post 1974. Besides, uranium was available from the Jaduguda mines, and a number of PHWRs were built for nuclear power generation. Simultaneously, however, thorium utilization was at the top in the agenda for the long term core objective of the “third stage” of the nuclear power program.
At present, it is reported that BARC is engaged in developing 300 MWe Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR) to gain expertise for thorium utilization and for demonstrating advanced safety concepts. Mixed Thoria-Urania and Thoria-Plutonia are the candidate fuels for the AHWR. Accelerator Driven Sub-Critical Systems (ADS) is the latest addition to the Indian Nuclear program for large scale utilization of thorium. It is expected to provide the strong technology base for its ambitious program of incineration of the long-lived actinides and fission products, thereby reducing the high level waste inventory. India’s long term nuclear power program is reported to be based on the thorium fuel cycle.
The much publicized Indo-US nuclear deal, if works out satisfactorily, would have augmented the short-term nuclear power contribution from the PHWRs. Natural uranium is used as the fuel, which India seems to have short supply.
India is one of the very few blessed countries with large deposits of thorium right on the beaches of the States Kerala and Orissa. But somehow, the high technology required for thorium fuel cycle didn’t take off earlier probably due to the “sanctions” post 1974. Besides, uranium was available from the Jaduguda mines, and a number of PHWRs were built for nuclear power generation. Simultaneously, however, thorium utilization was at the top in the agenda for the long term core objective of the “third stage” of the nuclear power program.
At present, it is reported that BARC is engaged in developing 300 MWe Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR) to gain expertise for thorium utilization and for demonstrating advanced safety concepts. Mixed Thoria-Urania and Thoria-Plutonia are the candidate fuels for the AHWR. Accelerator Driven Sub-Critical Systems (ADS) is the latest addition to the Indian Nuclear program for large scale utilization of thorium. It is expected to provide the strong technology base for its ambitious program of incineration of the long-lived actinides and fission products, thereby reducing the high level waste inventory. India’s long term nuclear power program is reported to be based on the thorium fuel cycle.
The much publicized Indo-US nuclear deal, if works out satisfactorily, would have augmented the short-term nuclear power contribution from the PHWRs. Natural uranium is used as the fuel, which India seems to have short supply.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
What the IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei said at the The Indian Fifth Annual Hindustan Times Leadership Summit, New Delhi
The Summit, held on 12 October, 2007, featured talks by several important political figures in India, including Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Ms. Sonia Gandhi and the IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei, who talked on - Global security: The need for a new beginning.
Some of the challenges humanity is facing today, as listed by him are:
• Poverty and the persistent inequity in the global distribution of wealth. A study by the United Nations University found that, as of the year 2000, the richest one percent of the world's population owned 40 percent of the world's assets. By contrast, the poorest half of humanity owned barely one percent of global wealth.
• Religious intolerance and the lack of political freedom to systematic oppression and torture and human right abuses, lack of good governance
• Uneven approach to the sanctity of human life
• Global insecurities and threats of nuclear and radiological terrorism.
He said that India has never joined the NPT, and therefore has not made the same legal commitments, it shares responsibility in terms of the urgent need for leadership on nuclear disarmament. In fact, he quoted that next month, it would be 50 years since Prime Minister Nehru made an impassioned appeal, here in New Delhi, for a worldwide end to nuclear testing and the elimination of all nuclear weapons arsenals, in order to "save humanity from the ultimate disaster".
He appreciated the sustained economic growth of recent years has given hope that the political freedoms enjoyed by the Indian people can be coupled with economic prosperity for all. He said democracy is an evolutionary process; however, it must begin from within, and it must be nurtured and supported, regardless of whether the particular leader is a political friend or foe, and regardless of the outcome of a given election. Investments should be in more advanced science and technology to meet development needs - seeking to do more than create more wealth for the wealthy
He appealed to the international community to deal with symptoms of insecurity at the national level, including nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction. On the nuclear front he said, the security of existing stocks of nuclear and radiological material should be strengthened, and controls over sensitive nuclear operations that produce such material should be tightened.
Dr. ElBaradei emphasized the need to engage in the sustained diplomacy necessary to resolve longstanding conflicts and to alleviate problems of poverty and hunger to generate momentum for good governance. He called for investments on innovation to address problems of hunger and disease.
Some of the challenges humanity is facing today, as listed by him are:
• Poverty and the persistent inequity in the global distribution of wealth. A study by the United Nations University found that, as of the year 2000, the richest one percent of the world's population owned 40 percent of the world's assets. By contrast, the poorest half of humanity owned barely one percent of global wealth.
• Religious intolerance and the lack of political freedom to systematic oppression and torture and human right abuses, lack of good governance
• Uneven approach to the sanctity of human life
• Global insecurities and threats of nuclear and radiological terrorism.
He said that India has never joined the NPT, and therefore has not made the same legal commitments, it shares responsibility in terms of the urgent need for leadership on nuclear disarmament. In fact, he quoted that next month, it would be 50 years since Prime Minister Nehru made an impassioned appeal, here in New Delhi, for a worldwide end to nuclear testing and the elimination of all nuclear weapons arsenals, in order to "save humanity from the ultimate disaster".
He appreciated the sustained economic growth of recent years has given hope that the political freedoms enjoyed by the Indian people can be coupled with economic prosperity for all. He said democracy is an evolutionary process; however, it must begin from within, and it must be nurtured and supported, regardless of whether the particular leader is a political friend or foe, and regardless of the outcome of a given election. Investments should be in more advanced science and technology to meet development needs - seeking to do more than create more wealth for the wealthy
He appealed to the international community to deal with symptoms of insecurity at the national level, including nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction. On the nuclear front he said, the security of existing stocks of nuclear and radiological material should be strengthened, and controls over sensitive nuclear operations that produce such material should be tightened.
Dr. ElBaradei emphasized the need to engage in the sustained diplomacy necessary to resolve longstanding conflicts and to alleviate problems of poverty and hunger to generate momentum for good governance. He called for investments on innovation to address problems of hunger and disease.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
INDO - US NUCLEAR AGREEMENT
Two long years of hard negotiations and diplomacy is coming to nought if India fails to forge the Indo-US civil nuclear agreement by not taking steps to operationalize the deal. The Left parties of the coalition government are insisting on withdrawal of the Government from the deal, unexpectedly at the last minute. By doing so, the nuclear power scenario in India is going to take a beating. The country may not be able to contribute even the 2-3% of the total electricity generated. The Indian community in US seems to be very unhappy with this development. According to them, the deal is more beneficial to India than to US, which of course is debatable. It is more of a business deal for US. The deal is of billions of dollars worth to US, in terms of selling reactors, reactor components, nuclear fuel and other high tech equipments.
It is extremely difficult for India to prosper in nuclear ventures being isolated from other resourceful countries. Power from thorium fuel cycle is still a few years away. The country should go all out for mining uranium from the newly found deposits in the north eastern state of Meghalaya, to fuel its PHWRs. What about utilization of depleted uranium stock? Fissile material percentage in depleted uranium need to be compensated by addition of other fissile actinide materials.
Meanwhile, why not try to negotiate with other interested countries for similar agreement without compromising on the reprocessing rights and the right to test nuclear devises. Why US alone? There are 44 other friendly countries such as France, Russia, and Australia to negotiate in the 45 nation Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
It is extremely difficult for India to prosper in nuclear ventures being isolated from other resourceful countries. Power from thorium fuel cycle is still a few years away. The country should go all out for mining uranium from the newly found deposits in the north eastern state of Meghalaya, to fuel its PHWRs. What about utilization of depleted uranium stock? Fissile material percentage in depleted uranium need to be compensated by addition of other fissile actinide materials.
Meanwhile, why not try to negotiate with other interested countries for similar agreement without compromising on the reprocessing rights and the right to test nuclear devises. Why US alone? There are 44 other friendly countries such as France, Russia, and Australia to negotiate in the 45 nation Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
Monday, October 15, 2007
Unkept promises by the governments – the nuclear deal
It is reported that the Democratic Front coalition government (Congress and NCP) at Maharashtra State has a record of 8984 unkept promises or assurances given to the people who voted them to power on issues raised on the floor of the state legislature during the period 2005 to date. Out of the total 13,025 only 4041 assurances were implemented. There seems to be no difference between the false promises made in front of the hired crowd during election rally and the august floor of the legislature. Nobody is taking stock of the situation!
Situation seems to be no better at the national level, governed by Congress and Left Front. The much discussed Indo-US Nuclear Deal is kept on hold just because the government wants to be in power for the remaining 12 to 14 months of the term in the Office. The members of the Parliament are not in favour of early elections because they may not get elected. The top leaders make inconsistent statements. The earlier bold statements made in the so-called “national interest” suddenly seem to have forgotten and the Front is now only clinging to power. For operationalize the nuclear agreement, the necessary step of approaching the IAEA for the Safeguards Agreement is kept in the backburner. It will be a big setback to the Indian Nuclear Power Programme and the nuclear power scenario in the country.
The people of India are still guessing on whose interest the Left parties are opposing the deal, at the last moment? Definitely not in the country’s interest I suppose.
Situation seems to be no better at the national level, governed by Congress and Left Front. The much discussed Indo-US Nuclear Deal is kept on hold just because the government wants to be in power for the remaining 12 to 14 months of the term in the Office. The members of the Parliament are not in favour of early elections because they may not get elected. The top leaders make inconsistent statements. The earlier bold statements made in the so-called “national interest” suddenly seem to have forgotten and the Front is now only clinging to power. For operationalize the nuclear agreement, the necessary step of approaching the IAEA for the Safeguards Agreement is kept in the backburner. It will be a big setback to the Indian Nuclear Power Programme and the nuclear power scenario in the country.
The people of India are still guessing on whose interest the Left parties are opposing the deal, at the last moment? Definitely not in the country’s interest I suppose.
Monday, September 17, 2007
INDO-US NUCLEAR DEAL
The Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and US President George Bush announced the Indo-US civilian nuclear cooperation agreement in Washington on July, 2005. Apparently, the deal has created a lot of discussions, apprehensions and concerns among the public in general and people connected with Indian nuclear establishments, in particular. There has been considerable media coverage for the deal. Here, the typical titles appeared in news papers are given to show the progress, date-wise, for the benefit of everybody. The titles are self explanatory and hence details are not given.
1. India, US to start make or break N-talks – as American poll nears, officials say current session is last attempt, 16/7/2007
2. India, US likely to seal nuclear deal today, 20/7/2007
3. All (Nu) clear – India, US break logjam to finalize the nuke deal after 2 yrs of talks, 22/7/2007
4. Indian Cabinet clears N-deal – But Left is yet to say the landmark nuclear accord with the US is right, 26/7/2007
5. Congressmen oppose N-concessions to India, Pakistan tests N-capable missile: Australia moves closer to selling uranium to India, 27/7/2007.
6. BJP okay with nuclear deal : But seeks clarity on India retaining its right to test – BJP delegation meeting with the PM, 27/7/2007
7. Nuke deal is done – The Indo-US nuclear cooperation deal will allow India access to US nuclear fuel and equipment for the first time in 30 years, 28/7/2007
8. Three nuclear questions – Why it might be too early to celebrate the Indo-US nuclear deal, 28/7/2007
9. N-deal better than expected, says Narayanan
10. N-deal (operating agreement) a historic milestone, to work on safeguards agreement, says Rice
11. 123 pact silent on N-test fallout – Pranab, Rice announce deal completion, fuel supply assurances worked out to India’s satisfaction, 29/7/2007
12. Between the lines of N-deal (123 agreement): No more tests, but India guaranteed fuel supply?, 29/7/2007
13. Aussies offer to back N-deal, sell uranium – Canberra decision on exporting nuclear fuel soon, 01/8/2007
14. US & India ride on – nuclear deal is a platform for a vibrant partnership.
15. US plans special NSG (45 members) meet to push India deal; BJP seeks House panel into nuclear deal. India’s status as a weapon state? 05/8/2007.
16. Left waves red flag at Indo-US 123 N-pact; Govt. ready for N-debate, 08/8/2007
17. N-deal is right, PM tells Left. The PM says the 123 agreement has been approved by the cabinet and there is no question of going back on it, 09/8/2007.
18. US hangs on to defense bar. India can’t acquire civilian items with military uses despite nuclear deal.
19. China had nothing to do with N-deal opposition – CPM (Communist Party of India) clarifies, 08/9/2007
20. Left Units divided on withdrawing support. Reluctance to risk a midterm Lok Sabha poll at this stage.
21. Let history be the judge, says PM, 14/8/2007
22. N-deal will be off if India tests: US, 16/8/2007
23. No bar on N-test, US tacitly admits, 18/8/2007
24. Honeymoon’s up, marriage limps on. Left front set to endorse CPI’s tough stand. N-deal will be PM’s swansong: Chinese media, 18/8/2007
25. George calls PM a traitor for signing the Indo-US nuclear deal,18/8/2007
26. Indo-US deal does not prohibit N-tests, says Kakodkar, Chairman, AEC, 18/8/2007
27. Left puts Govt on notice, polls loom,19/8/2007.
28. N-deal failure may hit Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Ratan Tata, Chairman, Tata Sons.
29. Left, UPA pause for breadth, Govt to set up panel to study Hyde Act, Calling off deal will isolate India, 20/8/2007.
30. No world for India if nuke deal is dumped. Diplomacy, strategy, economy: The nation stands to lose, 20/8/2007
31. Sino-Pak N-talks to counter India, 20/8/2007
32. CPM threat to withdraw support to UPA government to get nod from the Party’s Central Committee. Red bastions upset with Left on N-deal, 23/8/2007.
33. China undecided about policy on India’s NSG entry, 24/8/2007.
34. CPM’s suddenly soft on the PM, 24/8/2007.
35. Govt. won’t float a Hyde Act in India, 27/8/2007
36. Government refuses to put IAEA talks on hold, 28/8/2007.
37. Experts back PM’s conviction on pact. BARC scientists issue appeal for support; 123 debate likely to be delayed further; Government quotes energy study push nuke deal, 29/8/2007.
38. 123 –pause, govt blinks, Indo-US nuke deal put on hold till a committee formed to go into the left’s objections submits its findings, 31/8/2007.
39. No safeguards talks at IAEA meet: CPM leader Yechury, 03/9/2007
40. Parliamentary debate on nuke deal looks unlikely, 05/9/2007.
41. Cabinet mulls N-act changes. Move to strengthen regulatory & safety measures in reprocessing; Govt. advances N-deal debate, House debate nuke deal today, 06/9/2007.
42. N-Panel device to save govt.; Foreign Minister defends the UPA-Left panel.
43. China had nothing to do with N-deal opposition, CPM clarifies stance in weekly meeting against slander, 08/9/2007.
44. Left digs in its heels on N-deal, 11/9/2007.
45. Govt hints at polls ahead of schedule, Left submits note on N-pact to govt, 15/9/2007.
India could sustain its nuclear program so far without any major setback using uranium fuel cycle. In fact, the country is the achiever in the hi-tech thorium fuel cycle, on its own. So, with or without N-deal there is a bright future for the nuclear power in Indian power mix.
1. India, US to start make or break N-talks – as American poll nears, officials say current session is last attempt, 16/7/2007
2. India, US likely to seal nuclear deal today, 20/7/2007
3. All (Nu) clear – India, US break logjam to finalize the nuke deal after 2 yrs of talks, 22/7/2007
4. Indian Cabinet clears N-deal – But Left is yet to say the landmark nuclear accord with the US is right, 26/7/2007
5. Congressmen oppose N-concessions to India, Pakistan tests N-capable missile: Australia moves closer to selling uranium to India, 27/7/2007.
6. BJP okay with nuclear deal : But seeks clarity on India retaining its right to test – BJP delegation meeting with the PM, 27/7/2007
7. Nuke deal is done – The Indo-US nuclear cooperation deal will allow India access to US nuclear fuel and equipment for the first time in 30 years, 28/7/2007
8. Three nuclear questions – Why it might be too early to celebrate the Indo-US nuclear deal, 28/7/2007
9. N-deal better than expected, says Narayanan
10. N-deal (operating agreement) a historic milestone, to work on safeguards agreement, says Rice
11. 123 pact silent on N-test fallout – Pranab, Rice announce deal completion, fuel supply assurances worked out to India’s satisfaction, 29/7/2007
12. Between the lines of N-deal (123 agreement): No more tests, but India guaranteed fuel supply?, 29/7/2007
13. Aussies offer to back N-deal, sell uranium – Canberra decision on exporting nuclear fuel soon, 01/8/2007
14. US & India ride on – nuclear deal is a platform for a vibrant partnership.
15. US plans special NSG (45 members) meet to push India deal; BJP seeks House panel into nuclear deal. India’s status as a weapon state? 05/8/2007.
16. Left waves red flag at Indo-US 123 N-pact; Govt. ready for N-debate, 08/8/2007
17. N-deal is right, PM tells Left. The PM says the 123 agreement has been approved by the cabinet and there is no question of going back on it, 09/8/2007.
18. US hangs on to defense bar. India can’t acquire civilian items with military uses despite nuclear deal.
19. China had nothing to do with N-deal opposition – CPM (Communist Party of India) clarifies, 08/9/2007
20. Left Units divided on withdrawing support. Reluctance to risk a midterm Lok Sabha poll at this stage.
21. Let history be the judge, says PM, 14/8/2007
22. N-deal will be off if India tests: US, 16/8/2007
23. No bar on N-test, US tacitly admits, 18/8/2007
24. Honeymoon’s up, marriage limps on. Left front set to endorse CPI’s tough stand. N-deal will be PM’s swansong: Chinese media, 18/8/2007
25. George calls PM a traitor for signing the Indo-US nuclear deal,18/8/2007
26. Indo-US deal does not prohibit N-tests, says Kakodkar, Chairman, AEC, 18/8/2007
27. Left puts Govt on notice, polls loom,19/8/2007.
28. N-deal failure may hit Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Ratan Tata, Chairman, Tata Sons.
29. Left, UPA pause for breadth, Govt to set up panel to study Hyde Act, Calling off deal will isolate India, 20/8/2007.
30. No world for India if nuke deal is dumped. Diplomacy, strategy, economy: The nation stands to lose, 20/8/2007
31. Sino-Pak N-talks to counter India, 20/8/2007
32. CPM threat to withdraw support to UPA government to get nod from the Party’s Central Committee. Red bastions upset with Left on N-deal, 23/8/2007.
33. China undecided about policy on India’s NSG entry, 24/8/2007.
34. CPM’s suddenly soft on the PM, 24/8/2007.
35. Govt. won’t float a Hyde Act in India, 27/8/2007
36. Government refuses to put IAEA talks on hold, 28/8/2007.
37. Experts back PM’s conviction on pact. BARC scientists issue appeal for support; 123 debate likely to be delayed further; Government quotes energy study push nuke deal, 29/8/2007.
38. 123 –pause, govt blinks, Indo-US nuke deal put on hold till a committee formed to go into the left’s objections submits its findings, 31/8/2007.
39. No safeguards talks at IAEA meet: CPM leader Yechury, 03/9/2007
40. Parliamentary debate on nuke deal looks unlikely, 05/9/2007.
41. Cabinet mulls N-act changes. Move to strengthen regulatory & safety measures in reprocessing; Govt. advances N-deal debate, House debate nuke deal today, 06/9/2007.
42. N-Panel device to save govt.; Foreign Minister defends the UPA-Left panel.
43. China had nothing to do with N-deal opposition, CPM clarifies stance in weekly meeting against slander, 08/9/2007.
44. Left digs in its heels on N-deal, 11/9/2007.
45. Govt hints at polls ahead of schedule, Left submits note on N-pact to govt, 15/9/2007.
India could sustain its nuclear program so far without any major setback using uranium fuel cycle. In fact, the country is the achiever in the hi-tech thorium fuel cycle, on its own. So, with or without N-deal there is a bright future for the nuclear power in Indian power mix.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Plant (Japan)–Damage due to earthquake on 16th July, 2007
Earthquake damage to the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power station (largest in the world, run by the Tokyo Electric Power Company , Japan) on 16th July 2007 appears to be limited and less than expected, according to an IAEA expert report on the incident. The design of the plant was not qualified to withstand earthquake of 6.8 magnitude that occurred.
In particular, the reactors, Units 3, 4 and 7, which were at full power, were shut down automatically probably due to the conservatisms introduced at different stages of the design process (design safety margins). Safety related structures, systems and components of the plant seem to be in a general apparently good condition, much better than might be expected for such a strong earthquake, and there is no visible significant damage, the report stated.
While the plant's nuclear components appear to be in a satisfactory state, non-safety related structures, systems and components were affected by significant damage such as soil and anchorage failures and oil leakages. There were two minor releases of radioactive material occurred after the quake. The first one was a release of radioactive material from the main turbine condenser through the main stack and the other was some leakage of contaminated water from the spent fuel pool to a non-controlled area, which was later pumped to sea. It was noted that there was some delay in reporting the releases to the authorities.
Some of the suggestions made in the report are: i) a re-evaluation of the seismic safety the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa NPP using updated criteria and methods and addressing the issue of the potential existence of active faults underneath the site, ii) the potential interaction between large seismic events and accelerated ageing to be considered in future inspection programmes and iii) communication of the investigation findings and lessons learned to other nuclear operators, regulators and technical support organizations.
In particular, the reactors, Units 3, 4 and 7, which were at full power, were shut down automatically probably due to the conservatisms introduced at different stages of the design process (design safety margins). Safety related structures, systems and components of the plant seem to be in a general apparently good condition, much better than might be expected for such a strong earthquake, and there is no visible significant damage, the report stated.
While the plant's nuclear components appear to be in a satisfactory state, non-safety related structures, systems and components were affected by significant damage such as soil and anchorage failures and oil leakages. There were two minor releases of radioactive material occurred after the quake. The first one was a release of radioactive material from the main turbine condenser through the main stack and the other was some leakage of contaminated water from the spent fuel pool to a non-controlled area, which was later pumped to sea. It was noted that there was some delay in reporting the releases to the authorities.
Some of the suggestions made in the report are: i) a re-evaluation of the seismic safety the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa NPP using updated criteria and methods and addressing the issue of the potential existence of active faults underneath the site, ii) the potential interaction between large seismic events and accelerated ageing to be considered in future inspection programmes and iii) communication of the investigation findings and lessons learned to other nuclear operators, regulators and technical support organizations.
Friday, August 10, 2007
IN A NUTSHELL, THE INDO-US NUCLEAR DEAL MEANS:
• The 123 agreement (as per the Section 123 of Atomic Energy Act of 1954) allows US to sell nuclear fuel and nuclear technology to India for civilian purposes. The agreement, approved now by the Indian Cabinet, is reported to be in consonant with the Hyde Act passed in 2006.
• India will get nuclear fuel from America to run the nuclear power reactors (PHWRs), at full capacity. This is in spite of the fact that India is not a signatory to Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
• India is required to separate nuclear facilities for civilian and military use.
• India can continue to reprocess spent nuclear fuel from its civilian reactors. However, the spent fuel from the safeguarded reactors will be reprocessed in a separate reprocessing facility under international safeguards.
• In the event of India testing any nuclear weapons, the supply of nuclear fuel / technology will be terminated by the US. The supplied fuel may have to be returned. Not sure of the political consequences of the test. US may assist to procure fuel from some other countries of the 35 member Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) for continued operation of the civilian reactors producing commercial power.
• Finally, the deal could open-up the presently dormant nuclear power related American business to the tune of US$100billion.
• India gets much needed nuclear power, which is environmental friendly.
• India will get nuclear fuel from America to run the nuclear power reactors (PHWRs), at full capacity. This is in spite of the fact that India is not a signatory to Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
• India is required to separate nuclear facilities for civilian and military use.
• India can continue to reprocess spent nuclear fuel from its civilian reactors. However, the spent fuel from the safeguarded reactors will be reprocessed in a separate reprocessing facility under international safeguards.
• In the event of India testing any nuclear weapons, the supply of nuclear fuel / technology will be terminated by the US. The supplied fuel may have to be returned. Not sure of the political consequences of the test. US may assist to procure fuel from some other countries of the 35 member Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) for continued operation of the civilian reactors producing commercial power.
• Finally, the deal could open-up the presently dormant nuclear power related American business to the tune of US$100billion.
• India gets much needed nuclear power, which is environmental friendly.
Monday, July 23, 2007
BLOGGER’S OPINION POLL: DO YOU AGREE FOR USE OF RADIATION FOR BENEFICIAL APPLICATIONS?
Before giving your valued opinion you are requested to go through the facts given below. The poll results will be published appropriately after one month and you will also be notified through Email. This poll is unbiased and independent.
FACTS ABOUT RADIATION
1. All of us are exposed to natural background radiation, which is quite
significant in some areas and countries, China and India included.
2. Health effects of radiation exposure at the above background levels are not
known.
3. Radiation is used for the treatment of cancer.
4. Nuclear power plants do not emit greenhouse gases responsible for global
warming.
5. There is a small probability that radiation can cause cancer.
6. X-rays are used by doctors to diagnose diseases such as Tuberculosis.
7. Public is unaware of the beneficial effects of radiation.
8. Radiation is used in food processing to prevent the food items from spoiling.
9. Radiation exposures at higher levels (orders of magnitude higher than the
background radiation levels) can be biologically harmful.
10. Almost all the applications involving radiation and radioactivity are
generally regulated by independent government agencies (Regulatory Body)
worldwide.
OPINION POLL
Do you agree for the use of radiation in:
A) Medical applications Yes/ No/May be
B) Defense applications Yes/ No/May be
C) For Nuclear Power Yes/ No/May be
D) For all possible applications Yes/ No/May be
E) Not to be used for any applications Yes/ No/May be
F) Comments, if any
FACTS ABOUT RADIATION
1. All of us are exposed to natural background radiation, which is quite
significant in some areas and countries, China and India included.
2. Health effects of radiation exposure at the above background levels are not
known.
3. Radiation is used for the treatment of cancer.
4. Nuclear power plants do not emit greenhouse gases responsible for global
warming.
5. There is a small probability that radiation can cause cancer.
6. X-rays are used by doctors to diagnose diseases such as Tuberculosis.
7. Public is unaware of the beneficial effects of radiation.
8. Radiation is used in food processing to prevent the food items from spoiling.
9. Radiation exposures at higher levels (orders of magnitude higher than the
background radiation levels) can be biologically harmful.
10. Almost all the applications involving radiation and radioactivity are
generally regulated by independent government agencies (Regulatory Body)
worldwide.
OPINION POLL
Do you agree for the use of radiation in:
A) Medical applications Yes/ No/May be
B) Defense applications Yes/ No/May be
C) For Nuclear Power Yes/ No/May be
D) For all possible applications Yes/ No/May be
E) Not to be used for any applications Yes/ No/May be
F) Comments, if any
Monday, July 16, 2007
INDO-US NUCLEAR TALKS
The eagerness with which US pursuing the INDO-US Civilian Nuclear Agreement signed on July 18, 2005 to take for culmination into reality shows the US and its allies are going to be benefited more by implementation of the agreement rather than India. India may have to procure the nuclear fuel and other reactor components from the very countries to build the reactors with minimum gestation period to meet the immediate power requirement in the country. Western countries are going to gain more by India’s ambitious nuclear power programs.
Fortunately, Indian side is standing its ground with respect to its requirement of continuing with the nuclear tests as and when necessary, and also reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel for separation of useful fuel plutonium (Pu) and cesium (Cs) which can be used as gamma radiation source for industrial and medical applications. In view of the developments taking place in the India’s neighborhood and for its own defense requirement of introducing nuclear-capable Agni ballistic missile systems, nuclear tests are un-avoidable. Let India not bow down to pressures from the vested interests and compromise on the stand rightly taken by the nuclear establishment in the issue.
Fortunately, Indian side is standing its ground with respect to its requirement of continuing with the nuclear tests as and when necessary, and also reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel for separation of useful fuel plutonium (Pu) and cesium (Cs) which can be used as gamma radiation source for industrial and medical applications. In view of the developments taking place in the India’s neighborhood and for its own defense requirement of introducing nuclear-capable Agni ballistic missile systems, nuclear tests are un-avoidable. Let India not bow down to pressures from the vested interests and compromise on the stand rightly taken by the nuclear establishment in the issue.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
POWER SECTOR – GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Power Sector is the single biggest contributor to greenhouse gas inventory (GHGI), which is primarily responsible for Global Warming. Total contribution to GHGI from each of the electricity generating technology - emissions from the production of raw materials (like steel, aluminum, etc) to the various process stages of generation of electricity, including management of waste and transmission of the power, need to be taken into account to get the Full Energy Chain Greenhouse Gas Emission Factor (FENCH-GHG) in the units of carbon dioxide equivalent per kilowatt hour electric, for the purpose of comparison. The results of one such Japanese study is given below:
More effective (than CO2) GHG methane emitted from the decaying water-submerged vegetation is not taken into account in the above calculations for hydropower sector. Hence, probably the factor is low. As could be seen nuclear power is the environmentally cleaner power option. Then what is stopping?
More effective (than CO2) GHG methane emitted from the decaying water-submerged vegetation is not taken into account in the above calculations for hydropower sector. Hence, probably the factor is low. As could be seen nuclear power is the environmentally cleaner power option. Then what is stopping?
GREENHOUSE EMISSION FACTORS FOR SOME MATERIALS
For Full-Energy-Chain (FENCH) analysis is required for comparison of different energy options in power sector with respect to greenhouse gas emissions to facilitate energy planning and taking policy decisions. The greenhouse gas emission factors (GHEFs) of the raw materials flowing into the different energy sources at different stages such as construction (steel &cement) and selection of materials for the equipments (steel, aluminum, copper), are also important to calculate the overall greenhouse gas emissions, including non-CO2 emissions such as CF4, N2O, etc). The GHEFs (IAEA data) in the units of gm CO2 equivalent per gm of some of the greenhouse gas intensive materials are given here:
Cement : 0.76
Concrete : 1.95
Steel : 2.2
Aluminum : 34.2
Copper : 3.5
Silicon : 181
Glass : 1.2
Nitric acid : 1.4
Plastics : 7.9
As could be seen, silicon and glass (used in solar energy system) are highly GHG intensive material. Similarly, aluminum is extensively used in nuclear energy. GHG emissions control should start right from Cradle to Grave, i.e., Full Energy Chain.
Cement : 0.76
Concrete : 1.95
Steel : 2.2
Aluminum : 34.2
Copper : 3.5
Silicon : 181
Glass : 1.2
Nitric acid : 1.4
Plastics : 7.9
As could be seen, silicon and glass (used in solar energy system) are highly GHG intensive material. Similarly, aluminum is extensively used in nuclear energy. GHG emissions control should start right from Cradle to Grave, i.e., Full Energy Chain.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
INDIA - US BILATERAL NUCLEAR AGREEMENT
The so called 123 Deal is yet to be closed to the satisfaction of India. As one can see, there will not be any deal without India retaining the reprocessing rights of the spent fuel. Definitely, the nuclear fuel supplies from US and other Nuclear Fuel Supplier’ Group countries will help India in running the half-starved nuclear power reactors in full steam. But this is only a short-term benefit. And, too many unreasonable conditions put forth by the Nuclear Fuel Suppliers Group such as signing of NPT, end to nuclear tests, acceptance of technical “benchmarks”, etc will break the very backbone of the country’s ambitious nuclear power program, and compromise its security requirements.
It is high time that India should pursue its thorium fuel cycle programs with zeal and be the lead country in the world, and ensure availability of the nuclear power for decades without any unpleasant deals. Nature has bestowed plenty of thorium which can sustain the program, and elevate Indian technological superiority in the nuclear field.
It is high time that India should pursue its thorium fuel cycle programs with zeal and be the lead country in the world, and ensure availability of the nuclear power for decades without any unpleasant deals. Nature has bestowed plenty of thorium which can sustain the program, and elevate Indian technological superiority in the nuclear field.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
RISING WATERS AND SAFETY OF NUCLEAR SITES
Media has been continuously reporting about the possible outcome of the global warming scenarios such as:
· Sea to gulp more land by 2020
· Melting glaciers could lead to a flood of troubles
· Calamity countdown
· Act now or face the heat
· World has just 8 years to tackle global warming
It is high time (may be rather late) that International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and National Regulatory Authorities prepare a master plan for the safe management of the possible disastrous consequences of rising waters due to global warming in nuclear installations including the power plants, fuel processing plants, spent fuel reprocessing plants and radioactive waste disposal sites. From cooling water and low level liquid waste disposal considerations, generally radiation installation sites, particularly for nuclear power plants are located close to sea or virtually on the seashore. Often, the consequences may cross national boundaries, particularly in Europe.
The IAEA can act as a nodal agency to ensure existence of the disaster management plans in all the member states, review the plans for their adequacy, and advice the states on the immediate safety measures to be undertaken to prevent flooding of the nuclear sites.
· Sea to gulp more land by 2020
· Melting glaciers could lead to a flood of troubles
· Calamity countdown
· Act now or face the heat
· World has just 8 years to tackle global warming
It is high time (may be rather late) that International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and National Regulatory Authorities prepare a master plan for the safe management of the possible disastrous consequences of rising waters due to global warming in nuclear installations including the power plants, fuel processing plants, spent fuel reprocessing plants and radioactive waste disposal sites. From cooling water and low level liquid waste disposal considerations, generally radiation installation sites, particularly for nuclear power plants are located close to sea or virtually on the seashore. Often, the consequences may cross national boundaries, particularly in Europe.
The IAEA can act as a nodal agency to ensure existence of the disaster management plans in all the member states, review the plans for their adequacy, and advice the states on the immediate safety measures to be undertaken to prevent flooding of the nuclear sites.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
URANIUM FUEL FOR INDIA
The article "Uranium Thorn" published in the Editorial Opinion page of the Times of India dated 20th April, 2007 made an interesting reading. Dr. Rory Medcalf has brought out very well the dilemma of Australia in responding to India's request for uranium fuel for PHWR reactors. It seems to be real. Australia has everything to gain by supporting India in the time of need than waiting for India to sign the one-sided imperfect instrument such as Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which is unlikely. The author's suggestion to Australia of keeping its options open and keep the dialogue with India going will be a well thought out strategy. Who wants to miss out the goodwill of a future democratic superpower with strong economy and a huge reservoir of talented manpower?
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
ARM-TWISTING IN INDO-US NUCLEAR DEAL
Negotiations are going tough for the Indian side on the 123 agreement for civil nuclear cooperation. It is true that we need nuclear fuel to meet our committed nuclear power projected for the future. But at the same time, India should not at any cost compromise on their right for reprocessing their own spent fuel from the PHWR Reactors.
World today, recognizes India as a nuclear super power in view of the fact that India has considerable expertise in the entire nuclear fuel cycle operations, starting from mining, fuel fabrication, reactor operations, reprocessing, waste management and recycle of the plutonium obtained from the spent fuel reprocessing back in the fast breeder reactors. We are able to produce enough heavy water required for its own use and even the country is able to export the same to the so-called developed countries. In the field of radioisotopes applications, the country is doing exceptionally well, particularly the usage in the medical and industrial applications. Indian mangos will soon reach US homes after irradiation to treat weevils and fruit fly as per the US Standard.
Now:
1. If India can do so well in almost all nuclear related fields, why anybody should feel that India is not responsible enough to be accepted as a full-fledged Nuclear Power?
2. India on its own has developed the reprocessing technology over the years and one can be sure that it does not need anybody’s help in the field. Why there should be restrictions on the reprocessing when India needs the plutonium obtained from the reprocessing operations for its future nuclear power programs? This is the larger picture that everybody should see.
3. The proposed ban on tests is not very relevant at this juncture. Tests need to be carried out to keep in tune with the newer developments taking place in the neighboring countries. National security can not be negotiated on a tabletop.
World today, recognizes India as a nuclear super power in view of the fact that India has considerable expertise in the entire nuclear fuel cycle operations, starting from mining, fuel fabrication, reactor operations, reprocessing, waste management and recycle of the plutonium obtained from the spent fuel reprocessing back in the fast breeder reactors. We are able to produce enough heavy water required for its own use and even the country is able to export the same to the so-called developed countries. In the field of radioisotopes applications, the country is doing exceptionally well, particularly the usage in the medical and industrial applications. Indian mangos will soon reach US homes after irradiation to treat weevils and fruit fly as per the US Standard.
Now:
1. If India can do so well in almost all nuclear related fields, why anybody should feel that India is not responsible enough to be accepted as a full-fledged Nuclear Power?
2. India on its own has developed the reprocessing technology over the years and one can be sure that it does not need anybody’s help in the field. Why there should be restrictions on the reprocessing when India needs the plutonium obtained from the reprocessing operations for its future nuclear power programs? This is the larger picture that everybody should see.
3. The proposed ban on tests is not very relevant at this juncture. Tests need to be carried out to keep in tune with the newer developments taking place in the neighboring countries. National security can not be negotiated on a tabletop.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Nuclear risk
It is good news that India and Pakistan have decided to ink a pact to reduce risk of nuclear attack in situations of “false alarm”, “accident” or any “unexplained incident” occurring in the countries. The pact becomes more relevant in view of any deliberate attempt by terrorist group by using “dirty bombs”. Use of so called dirty bomb may only spread radioactive contamination without resulting in any fatalities. However, detection of radioactive contamination in public places is enough to create a real panic situation by the media and members of the public bringing undue pressure on the governments for use of nuclear weapons. Use of nuclear weapons must be prevented at any cost.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
RADIOACTIVE WASTE MANAGEMENT - PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE
Radioactive elements are present in all materials. They contain either naturally occurring radioactive materials or traces of man-made radioactive substances produced from human activities. The latter is called radioactive waste. The radio-nuclides present in radioactive waste have different half lives. Most of the have shorter half lives and a few have longer half lives.
The main goal we pursue is the protection of public health, safety and the environment in which we live. This means we should be in a position to manage safely all types of the wastes generated, and at same time clarify the “complex” picture of the radioactive waste management to enable better public understanding.
The major part of the radioactive waste generated is of low level. This only means that the radioactivity content is very low and such a waste can be safely disposed off into the environment in a controlled manner. Stringent regulations apply for such disposals. The amount of so called “high level waste” is very low. This waste is allowed to dispose off into the environment. As of today, the high level waste is stored in well designed storage facilities with continuous surveillance. An emergency plan is in place to take care of any abnormal situations, such as leakages.
Now comes the disposal part of this high level waste. The technology to immobilize (i.e., convert into glass form and made insoluble in water) this waste is available, proved and the plants are operating worldwide. India is one of the very few countries who have mastered this technique. International cooperation and consensus on the approaches on disposal strategies for high level waste are pursued very seriously by the International, non-governmental agencies such as International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Disposal plans for this immobilized high level waste is facing difficulties mainly due to lack of public acceptance of the disposal concept. There is no doubt in the technology, which is available and proven. A good safety record has been established in the field. But still the fears about safety persist in the minds of the public.
May be one should consider other options, such as use of the radio-nuclides present in the waste by separating them and use them as radioactive sources for other beneficial applications in industry. This way one can reduce further the quantity of the long-lived high level waste.
The immobilized high level waste package, which is well designed to withstand all abnormal conditions underground, can be permanently and safely disposed off in well identified stable geological formations, such as ancient salt domes or granite tunnels several hundred meters below surface. There is no possibility of radioactivity from these packages getting into the biosphere for thousands of years. The multiple natural and engineered barriers ensure long-term confinement and would protect against any human intrusion in the future. Further, continuous surveillance should be provided for these disposal sites for extended time periods. Some degree of explicit provisions may be planned in the design for retrievability of the waste disposed in the geological formations. These actions and assurance of safety of future generations by the government will build-up public confidence and gain acceptance.
The main goal we pursue is the protection of public health, safety and the environment in which we live. This means we should be in a position to manage safely all types of the wastes generated, and at same time clarify the “complex” picture of the radioactive waste management to enable better public understanding.
The major part of the radioactive waste generated is of low level. This only means that the radioactivity content is very low and such a waste can be safely disposed off into the environment in a controlled manner. Stringent regulations apply for such disposals. The amount of so called “high level waste” is very low. This waste is allowed to dispose off into the environment. As of today, the high level waste is stored in well designed storage facilities with continuous surveillance. An emergency plan is in place to take care of any abnormal situations, such as leakages.
Now comes the disposal part of this high level waste. The technology to immobilize (i.e., convert into glass form and made insoluble in water) this waste is available, proved and the plants are operating worldwide. India is one of the very few countries who have mastered this technique. International cooperation and consensus on the approaches on disposal strategies for high level waste are pursued very seriously by the International, non-governmental agencies such as International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Disposal plans for this immobilized high level waste is facing difficulties mainly due to lack of public acceptance of the disposal concept. There is no doubt in the technology, which is available and proven. A good safety record has been established in the field. But still the fears about safety persist in the minds of the public.
May be one should consider other options, such as use of the radio-nuclides present in the waste by separating them and use them as radioactive sources for other beneficial applications in industry. This way one can reduce further the quantity of the long-lived high level waste.
The immobilized high level waste package, which is well designed to withstand all abnormal conditions underground, can be permanently and safely disposed off in well identified stable geological formations, such as ancient salt domes or granite tunnels several hundred meters below surface. There is no possibility of radioactivity from these packages getting into the biosphere for thousands of years. The multiple natural and engineered barriers ensure long-term confinement and would protect against any human intrusion in the future. Further, continuous surveillance should be provided for these disposal sites for extended time periods. Some degree of explicit provisions may be planned in the design for retrievability of the waste disposed in the geological formations. These actions and assurance of safety of future generations by the government will build-up public confidence and gain acceptance.
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
BEST OPTION – NUCLEAR POWER
Technically speaking, nuclear power is one of the strong options for electricity generation in the future. Definitely, considering the present growth rate, the future requirement of electricity is so great that no single option will be able to provide for the requirement. Environmentally safe power mix, such as hydro, nuclear, solar and wind should be seriously considered, without any bias, for sustaining the projected growth. May be, initially, to tide over the crisis, more of thermal power (gas or coal based), with less gestation period and less investment need to be considered.
If finally the INDO-US nuclear deal is forthcoming, India can multiply fast the number of PHWR reactors, in public as well as private sectors, such as NTPC and Reliance Energy. Private participation will go a long way to realize the projected growth in the nuclear power sector. However, the radiological safety should be ensured jointly in collaboration with the Government.
If finally the INDO-US nuclear deal is forthcoming, India can multiply fast the number of PHWR reactors, in public as well as private sectors, such as NTPC and Reliance Energy. Private participation will go a long way to realize the projected growth in the nuclear power sector. However, the radiological safety should be ensured jointly in collaboration with the Government.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)