§ 10. Mr. Maxwell-Hyslopasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science what progress the Atomic Energy Authority has made in the conversion of radioactive wastes into glass for easier and safer disposal.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethI am advised by the Atomic Energy Authority that its work on the fixation of highly radioactive wastes in solid glass-like materials is progressing satisfactorily. A pilot scale plant for the further development of the process is being constructed.
§ Mr. Maxwell-HyslopWould my hon. Friend indicate where it is proposed to dispose of this glass-like waste when the process has been completed?
§ Mr. FreethThe Atomic Energy Authority aims to bury the glass cylinders in concrete pits to eliminate any risk of contaminating local surface water. It will also be necessary for the storage caverns to be equipped with cooling devices to remove the heat caused by radioactive decay during the first years of storage.