Purpose and Scope - std3028

DOE-STD-3028-2000

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

This Standard establishes the criteria for the packaging and safe storage of separated 233U-

bearing materials. Materials conforming to these criteria should be capable of being contained

and stored safely for a nominal 50 years (pending disposition). It aims to obviate subsequent

repackaging during their continuing storage until their respective dispositions are identified.

Periodic inspections of 233U packages shall be conducted in order to confirm the storage

objectives covered by this Standard. This Standard does not apply to 233U-bearing liquids,

wastes, spent fuels, irradiated targets, in-process materials, or small quantities (= 15 g) involved

in research and development studies. Furthermore, this Standard only applies to uranium-

bearing materials in which 233U (and associated 232U) has the greatest radiological significance.

Major particulars for the safe storage of separated 233U are preventing nuclear criticality,

containing the radioactive materials, protecting personnel from undue exposure to penetrating

radiation, and safeguarding this SNM. The storage facility plays a primary role in addressing all

of these safety elements except containment. The facility plays a principal backup role (i.e.,

defense in depth) in confining radioactive contaminants during upset conditions. Material

stabilization, consolidation, access limitation, low maintenance storage, and reliability in

verification of the inventory are the Department's present goals for the 233U-bearing materials.

This Standard delineates the criteria for assuring that 233U-bearing materials will be packaged in

configurations (combinations of material form and packaging) promoting safe, long-term

storage. The packages should require regular surveillance for safety under anticipated handling

and storage conditions until their final disposition. Material control and accountability (MC&A)

surveillances may occur simultaneously.

EQUIVALENCY AND EXCEPTIONS

This Standard provides criteria for 233U-bearing materials that are to be newly packaged and

materials that require repackaging for long-term safe storage. Currently stored material should

be compared to the criteria in this Standard and repackaged as necessary. This standard

allows using systems, methods, material forms, or devices that are functionally equivalent or

superior in the place of those prescribed herein if demonstrated by technical documentation.

Waivers and exemptions to this Standard shall be obtained in accordance with DOE TSPP-9.