METHOD FOR PROLONGED STORAGE OF SPENT NUCLEAR FUEL Russian patent published in 2015 - IPC G21F5/00 

FIELD: physics, atomic power.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to a method for prolonged storage of spent nuclear fuel of a nuclear reactor. The disclosed method includes, before placing a spent fuel assembly in a steel case and sealing the case with a cover, placing lead in the steel case, said lead being chemically inert with respect to the material of the fuel element jacket of the spent fuel assemblies, the material of the case, air and water. The steel case is placed in a heating device. The steel case is heated with the lead inside until it turns liquid. A spent fuel assembly from a nuclear reactor is then placed in the steel case. The fuel part of the fuel element of the spent fuel assemblies must be lower than the level of the liquid material in the steel case. Further, the spent fuel assembly is fixed in said position and the case is sealed with a cover. The sealed steel case is removed from the heating device and placed in a storage cooled with atmospheric air.

EFFECT: enabling prolonged safe storage of spent fuel assemblies, as well as transportation of spent fuel assemblies to the factory for processing while ensuring high safety.

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