The nuclear fuel cycle associated with the operation of nuclear power plants

Abstract

Electric power generation in Ghana is presently achieved through hydro and fossil fuel energy sources. However, recent energy crisis due to sporadic rainfall patterns has mandated the search for alternate and more secure electricity generating technologies. The nuclear power option has been mentioned as an alternative for Ghana but the issue of waste management worries both policy makers and the public. In this paper, the nuclear fuel cycle associated with the operation of nuclear power plants (NPPs) for electric power generation has been extensively reviewed. Different methods or schemes for dealing with the management of spent fuel arisings from the operation of these power plants have also been analyzed. Particular attention has been paid to providing answers to vital questions often asked by the public regarding the front- (nuclear fuel supply) and back- (spent fuel disposal) ends of the nuclear fuel cycle. Different strategies of the fuel cycle have been mentioned. The wet and dry storage methods of spent fuel management required for temporal storage of spent fuel at-reactor (AR) and away-from-reactor (AFR) sites have also been reviewed. Some recommendations have been made for the adoption of a nuclear power program in Ghana by concentrating on management and disposal of nuclear waste.

JOURNAL OF THE GHANA SCIENCE ASSOCIATION Volume 2 No. 2 (2000) pp. 121-128