Nuclear Energy: Consequences of Explosion of Hanford's Single-Shell Tanks Are Understated
RCED-91-34
Published: Oct 10, 1990. Publicly Released: Oct 10, 1990.
Skip to Highlights
Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO evaluated the potential for ferrocyanide explosions in underground tanks containing high-level waste at the Department of Energy's (DOE) Hanford site.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Energy | The Secretary of Energy should direct the DOE Richland Operations Office to implement the recommendations made by the DOE Ad Hoc Task Force on September 20, 1990. |
Closed – Implemented
DOE/Westinghouse Hanford have completed the studies recommended by the Ad Hoc Task Force. Analyses have shown that ferrocyanide reactions are difficult to initiate, are prevented by the presence of a small amount of water, and will not propagate unless sufficient fuel is present. Experiments have also established that ferrocyanide waste ages to form less energetic products under waste tank conditions. According to the analyses, the necessary conditions for a ferrocyanide explosion do not exist and, therefore, a ferrocyanide explosion is considered improbable.
|
Full Report
Office of Public Affairs
Topics
Environmental impact statementsExplosivesHazardous substancesHealth hazardsNuclear waste storageRadiation exposure hazardsRadioactive waste disposalRadioactive wastesTanks (containers)Waste management