spent fuel pool

A spent fuel pool is a specially designed, secure basin filled with cooling water where used nuclear fuel from a reactor is stored after it has been used to produce energy. The water cools the hot, radioactive fuel, reducing its temperature and radiation risk. The pool provides shielding from radiation and helps prevent the release of radioactive materials into the environment. This storage method is temporary until the fuel is either reprocessed or moved to a more permanent disposal site. Proper maintenance and cooling are essential to ensure safety and prevent accidents.