Types of Radioactive Waste
- Low-level waste (LLW): This type of waste includes items that have come into contact with radioactive material, such as clothing and tools used in nuclear facilities.
- Intermediate-level waste (ILW): This type of waste includes items that have a higher level of radioactivity than LLW, such as spent fuel rods from nuclear reactors.
- High-level waste (HLW): This type of waste includes highly radioactive materials, such as the spent fuel from nuclear power plants.
- Transuranic waste (TRU): This type of waste includes materials that have been contaminated with elements heavier than uranium, such as plutonium.
- Uranium mill Tailings: These are the by-product of the milling of uranium ore and contain radioactive materials such as radium and thorium.
- Decommissioning waste: This type of waste is generated during the process of decommissioning a nuclear facility, including contaminated materials, debris, and equipment.
Radioactive Waste and Pollution
Pollution refers to the presence or introduction into the environment of a substance or thing that has harmful or poisonous effects. Pollution can take many forms and can have a wide range of negative impacts on the environment, human health, and the economy. Some of the most common types of pollution include: