FTMC Advanced Laser Technologies for Radioactive Waste Decontamination

Scientists from the Department of Nuclear Research of the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), a member of the LITEK™ cluster, have developed a unique laser-based technology for radioactive waste decontamination and successfully tested it under real conditions at the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant. During the trials, the laser system was applied to clean metal surfaces contaminated with radionuclides, with the aim of evaluating the technology’s efficiency and applicability in nuclear energy facilities.

Laser cleaning allows for the precise removal of contaminated surface layers without damaging the underlying material structure. This method significantly reduces the volume of radioactive waste, limits the generation of secondary waste, and ensures improved contamination control compared to conventional mechanical or chemical cleaning methods.

In order to objectively assess the efficiency of the laser technology during testing, samples from the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant made of various metal types, with different geometries and levels of radioactivity, were examined. The obtained results provide a foundation for further development and implementation of the technology. Moreover, these trials open new opportunities not only for the radioactive waste decontamination process at the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant, but also for Lithuanian laser technology companies.

Department of Nuclear Research of FTMC conducts both fundamental and applied research in the fields of nuclear safety, radioactive waste management, and advanced decontamination methods. The high level of expertise among the division’s researchers enables the effective integration of scientific knowledge with practical engineering solutions. The laser technologies developed at FTMC contribute to the implementation of sustainable and innovative radioactive waste management solutions, supporting the safe decommissioning of nuclear energy facilities and the achievement of environmental protection objectives.

More information: https://ftmc.lt/news/laser-based-radioactive-waste-cleaning-technology-tested-for-the-first-time-at-the-ignalina-nuclear-power-plant/

Laser system and Dr. Arūnas Plukis. Photos: FTMC.