
high-level waste
High-Level Waste (HLW) refers to the highly radioactive byproducts generated from the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel and from certain types of nuclear reactors. This waste is extremely hazardous and requires special handling, storage, and disposal due to its long-lasting radiation. HLW is typically stored in secure facilities where it can be monitored and managed. Over time, it must be permanently disposed of in deep geological repositories designed to isolate it from the environment and human populations for thousands of years until its radioactivity decreases to safe levels.
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High-level waste (HLW) refers to highly radioactive materials, primarily from nuclear reactors and the reprocessing of nuclear fuel. This waste generates significant heat and radiation, necessitating careful handling and long-term storage solutions. HLW includes spent fuel rods, which contain isotopes that remain hazardous for thousands of years. It is crucial to isolate high-level waste from the environment to protect public health and safety. Storage methods typically involve deep geological repositories designed to contain the waste securely for thousands of years until its radioactivity decreases to safe levels.