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Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal

In Japan, low-level radioactive waste (LLW) is classified into four categories (L1, L2, L3 and TRU waste) according to nuclides contained and its origin. Radioactive waste disposal is performed in phases by entities responsible for each category of waste.

JNFL accepts L2 type of LLW that is generated through operating domestic nuclear power plants, which are owned by electric utility companies, containing small amounts of mostly short-lived radioactivity, such as cobalt-60 (Half-life is about 5 years). Each category of LLW has a different disposal concept (See Diagram 1) . L2 type waste is disposed of in a concrete pit at the depth of ten meters or more at the JNFL site (See Diagram 2).

JNFL has been approved the operation of the disposal facilities with a total capacity of 124,672 m³ (623,360 of 200-liter waste drums).


Disposal Concept for radioactive waste in Japan

Disposal Concept


Concept for pit disposal at Rokkasho Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Center

Disposal Flow

Operational Status at
Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Center

As of February 29, 2024

Topics

Current Status

Up to now, total of 356,835 low-level waste drums has been received.

Low-level radioactive waste receiving

graph of low-level radioactive waste receiving