Nuclear Reactor Wastes
Despite safety regulations, some people fear radiation exposure associated from a nuclear power plant’s waste products. Because the nuclear fission process releases harmful radiation, containment structures are built around the nuclear reactor core to protect the environment from harmful radiation. However, when the equipment from a nuclear plant is no longer functional, it still contains some residual, or leftover, radiation. It is considered a hazardous material. Once the fuel rods have been used up, they emit radiation. Spent fuel rods also fall in the category of hazardous waste. Wastes from nuclear power operations fall into one of three types. Roll your pointer over each level of the pyramid to learn more.
After about 30 years of service, a nuclear power plant is decommissioned because its metal parts wear out because of exposure to radiation. All the equipment from the worn out plant, as well as the spent fuel rods, have to be isolated from the environment to keep people and wildlife safe from radiation exposure.
