About Low-Level Radioactive 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 radioactive isotope, 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 six meters or more at the JNFL site (See Diagram 2).

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

Diagram 1: Disposal Concept for radioactive waste in Japan

Overview of Disposal facilities

Diagram 2: Concept for pit disposal at Rokkasho Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Center

Disposal Flow