This publication presents a systematic approach to establishing and operating a national nuclear security support centre (NSSC) as a means to strengthen the sustainability of nuclear security in a State. It provides specific practical guidance to States, detailing a straightforward decision making and project management process drawn from good practices in establishing and operating an NSSC that were identified through the experience and lessons learned from States within the NSSC Network. The publication, which is a revision of TECDOC-1734, is intended for use by the IAEA and the NSSC Network as the primary reference for activities to support States with the establishment and operation of an NSSC.

This publication addresses costs arising during individual phases of an environmental remediation project, how they can be calculated, and how they can be structured and documented. It provides the methodology of cost estimation and includes examples of cost estimate models, development plans, cost elements and work breakdown structures. The guide also contains an overview of potentially suitable remediation technologies, which may help the reader to structure the options study.

This publication is intended to support regulatory bodies, policy makers and others with responsibilities relating to the management of exposures where radionuclides are, or could be, present in food, but it excluding nuclear or radiological emergencies. It has been developed in collaboration with and is jointly sponsored by the FAO and WHO. Its focus is therefore on technical considerations for the implementation of Requirement 51 of Radiation Protection and Safety of Radiation Sources: International Basic Safety Standards, IAEA Safety Standards Series no. GSR Part 3, in the area of food safety. In particular this publication provides a proposed approach for the management of radionuclides in food for consideration in implementing Requirement 51 in GSR Part 3. The publication will be of practical value to all those with roles in food safety or radiation protection.

As an integral part of the International Project on Innovative Nuclear Reactors and Fuel Cycles (INPRO), several collaborative projects were established by its members. The IAEA/INPRO Collaborative Project on Environmental Impact Benchmarking Applicable for Nuclear Energy Systems under Normal Operation (ENV) was one of them. This publication is the outcome of the ENV summarising results developed under this project by the groups of national experts. It presents a set of examples of different approaches for estimating environmental impact from nuclear power plants (NPPs) under normal operation conditions in different countries based on participants' experience and considering the IAEA Safety Standard on a generic framework for consideration of radiological environmental impact. It also contributes to the development of a common understanding in assessing releases from new NPPs and associated activities in terms of the radiation dose to members of the public. This publication will contribute to further improvement of the INPRO methodology and can help Member States applying it to perform a nuclear energy system assessment in the area of environmental impact of stressors.

To assure the safe, technically optimal and cost effective management of spent fuel and radioactive waste, appropriate policies and strategies are required. This publication clarifies the differences between a policy and a strategy, and provides principal advice to Member States on the typical composition, mutual links and the process of compilation of such documents. It also offers options for and indicates approaches to the management of spent fuel and radioactive waste, thus enabling an effective spent fuel and radioactive waste management infrastructure to be developed.

The reactor core is the central part of a nuclear reactor where nuclear fission occurs. It consists of four basic systems and components: the fuel (including fuel rods and the fuel assembly structure), the coolant, the moderator and the control rods, as well as additional structures such as reactor pressure vessel internals, core support plates, and the lower and upper internal structure in light water reactors. This Safety Guide provides recommendations on meeting the safety requirements established in SSR-2/1 (Rev. 1) applied to the design of the reactor core for nuclear power plants. The publication addresses the safety aspects of the core design and includes neutronic, thermohydraulic, thermomechanical, and structural mechanical aspects. Other aspects considered are those relating to reactor core control, shutdown and monitoring, and core management.

In recent years there has been an evolution in numerical models used to compute tsunami propagation and run-up. Many models currently available offer a wide array of choices to the users. In parallel with the development of such numerical models, it is important that the user only applies the verified and validated numerical models that have undergone a benchmark analysis. This publication provides information and benchmark problems to enable engineers and regulators to select the most appropriate tsunami analysis software and modelling for the evaluation of tsunami hazards for nuclear installations to ensure their safety against those events. In addition, the benchmark problems will enable such users to become familiar with the limitations of the tsunami analysis modelling available in research and commercial software.

This publication addresses the basics of the application of a graded approach in the regulatory oversight of nuclear installations, describes the approaches currently implemented by several regulatory bodies around the world and, based on these examples, proposes a generic methodology for application of a graded approach to regulation of nuclear installations. The publication provides practical examples and information on developing and implementing strategies and processes for all regulatory functions.

This publication presents the outcomes of an IAEA coordinated research project on assessing the national economic effects of nuclear programmes in participating Member States. It provides a short description of the extended input–output model for sustainable power generation (EMPOWER), developed by the IAEA, and presents concise summaries of its applications. It further includes the results produced by the contributing research teams and summarizes general insights drawn from the national studies. The publication illustrates the state of the art of assessing macroeconomic impacts of nuclear energy programmes. It is expected to support further applications of advanced models to improve the understanding of macroeconomic and sectoral impacts of building and operating nuclear power plants

The assessment approach described in this publication provides a comprehensive means to determine the status of the infrastructure conditions relevant to all issues detailed in IAEA Nuclear Energy Series No. NP-T-5.1, Specific Considerations and Milestones for a Research Reactor Project. This approach can be used by any interested Member State for self-assessment to identify weaknesses and to determine the additional work needed to develop its national nuclear infrastructure for research reactor programme to an appropriate level. Member States planning to embark on both a research reactor programme and a nuclear power programme, may refer to this publication to ensure that the approach and methodology for the implementation of both programmes is harmonized, efficient and effective.

This publication presents a review of technical solutions providing both corrective actions and preventive measures to reduce the ingress of radon indoors. A description of methods, design and implementation of measures to reduce ingress of radon into buildings, and of the materials and equipment used in these solutions are included. The publication also presents methods for measuring gamma radiation from radionuclides in building and construction materials and for methods of reducing exposure due to this gamma radiation. Aimed primarily at building and construction professionals designing and installing radon preventive and mitigation measures, this publication will also be a useful resource for national authorities responsible for the development of national building codes and implementation of national radon action plans.

This publication evaluates the different coolant options considered for nuclear applications with a fast neutron spectrum (i.e. fusion, fission and accelerators), compiles the latest information in the field and identifies research needs. In this study, systems cooled by light and heavy liquid metals, molten salts, as well as gas and water choices are analysed and discussed. This TECDOC documents the present state of knowledge in the area of fusion, fission and accelerator applications, and the major progress in methods and approaches made in the past years based on observations, experimental findings and operational experience. Moreover, it identifies knowledge gaps and addresses near term research and development efforts required to overcome them.

This publication explains the concepts of quality assurance and quality control. It provides examples, illustrated by good practices, of their implementation within the processes of the management systems of nuclear facilities and describes how they are managed through interfaces with suppliers and subcontractors. The publication discusses the elements of a management system relevant for the quality assurance and quality control functions, such as the generation and retention of documented information. The information presented will help in ensuring the safe and economic operation of nuclear facilities and provide a neutral technical basis for dialogue between government bodies, regulators, plant operators and suppliers when dealing with management system, quality assurance and quality control issues.

This publication provides an update on the current status of nuclear power and prospects for its contribution, together with other low carbon energy sources, to ambitious mitigation strategies that will help the world limit global warming to 1.5 DegreesC in line with the 2016 Paris Agreement. Since 2000, the IAEA has issued such information and analysis regularly, in order to support those Member States that choose to include nuclear power in their energy system as well as those considering other strategies. The focus of the 2020 publication is on the significant potential of nuclear energy, integrated in a low carbon energy system, to contribute to the 1.5 DegreesC climate change mitigation target, and the challenges of realizing this potential. Energy system and market related factors affecting the transition to a low carbon energy system are reviewed. This edition also outlines developments needed to realize the large scale capacity increase required to rapidly decarbonize the global energy system in line with limiting global warming to 1.5 DegreesC.

There is renewed interest in Member States in the development and deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs). Specific technical characteristics of this reactor type introduce new deployment possibilities. This publication provides current information on considerations about environmental impact assessments (EIAs) related to SMRs. Under many regulatory regimes, the EIA report is a prerequisite for licensing and an important tool to confirm that the potential site is suitable for the future construction and operation of a reactor. Therefore, this publication which discusses approaches to address specific issues related to the EIA for SMRs will be of use to technology holders and licensing authorities.

New geochemical and mineralogical data from research conducted under the IAEA coordinated research project entitled Geochemical and Mineralogical Characterization of Uranium and Thorium Deposits has resulted in a better understanding of the genesis of uranium and thorium mineralization. This publication presents a summary of the research and selected papers from the project’s partners. The results are expected to enhance exploration programmes, resource evaluation and sustainable supply of uranium and thorium for peaceful purposes.

This publication addresses the sustainability of all aspects of a national nuclear security regime, including those relating to nuclear material and nuclear facilities, other radioactive material and associated facilities, and nuclear and other radioactive material out of regulatory control. The publication is relevant for States that have established a nuclear security regime as well as for States that are in the process of establishing one. It includes guidance on how to address challenges in sustaining a nuclear security regime over time. It also addresses the initial development and implementation of the regime, particularly where sustainability can be built into it as part of its design.

Experience shows that an assessment of the seismic capacity of an existing operating facility can be required for a number of reasons, for example identification of potential seismic vulnerabilities based on operating experience events or the periodic safety review programme. This publication covers the seismic safety evaluation programmes to be performed on existing nuclear installations in order to ensure that the required fundamental safety functions are available, with particular application to the safe shutdown of reactors. It includes lessons learned based on the IAEA Action Plan for Strengthening Nuclear Safety, following the Fukushima accident, and updated methodologies for seismic safety evaluation of nuclear installations.

This publication presents the proceedings of the IAEA International Conference on the Management of Spent Fuel from Nuclear Power Reactors, held in 2019, with the theme ‘Learning from the Past, Enabling the Future’. The purpose of the event was to provide a forum for the exchange of information on national spent fuel management strategies and on the ways in which a changing energy mix could influence these strategies and on how they support the achievement of national energy goals. The broad scope of the conference covered all stages of the management of spent fuel from the past, present and future technologies, and how it can be affected by the decisions taken in the rest of the nuclear fuel cycle. The event brought together experts from countries with decades of nuclear power operating experience and those from countries currently developing or considering a nuclear power programme. The importance of sharing data, operational experience, lessons learned and international collaboration in research and development (R&D) activities, and how its development and implementation can lead to attainable solutions was highlighted. Special attention was given to the young generation of professionals to support bridging the gap with the current ageing industry workforce.

For reactors currently operating, the types of wastes expected to be generated under normal operating regime are known and, aside from a few problematic wastes (such as graphite, tritium and radiocarbon) most of these wastes have clearly defined cradle-to-grave (end-to-end) pathways. However, for advanced and innovative reactors and their fuel cycles, some waste types may either have new or different properties or might be problematic for processing with the currently available technologies. One of the primary challenges for advanced and innovative reactors and their nuclear fuel cycles is that solutions must be identified for all eventually problematic wastes prior to initiating construction of these facilities. This publication sets the stage for considering the waste generation of advanced fuel fabrication, reactor operation and decommissioning, reprocessing of spent fuel and waste pathways early in the development of new reactors and their associated fuel cycles. It describes waste flows in broad chemical and physical terms and identifies possible processing, recycling and disposition pathways. The publication is intended to support the nuclear industry in taking an early and integrated approach to waste managemen

This handbook on ageing management for nuclear power plants (NPPs) has been developed in compliance with relevant IAEA safety standards and draws on lessons learned from ageing management practices worldwide. It provides an overview of the topic and guidance on proactive ageing management within NPPs. The publication also collates information on ageing mechanisms, effects on structures, systems and components, the regulatory framework as well as some details on innovative techniques and research and development in the area. The information is presented concisely with clear flow charts and with structured reference to the underlying principles. The handbook will support NPP staff, maintenance managers, vendors, personnel at research organizations and regulators in their work related to the ageing of structures, systems and components.

Computer security is increasingly recognized as a key component in nuclear security. As technology advances, it is anticipated that computer and computing systems will be used to an even greater degree in all aspects of plant operations including safety and security systems. A rigorous and comprehensive assessment process can assist in strengthening the effectiveness of the computer security programme. This publication outlines a methodology for conducting computer security assessments at nuclear facilities. The methodology can likewise be easily adapted to provide assessments at facilities with other radioactive materials.

The nuclear industry is in a state of flux. Proclamations of a nuclear renaissance have given way to predictions of the industry's ultimate decline, and now, in the face of new carbon emissions regulation, renewed optimism for the future. Yet, nuclear plants are currently at-risk due to electricity market design issues and competition with low priced natural gas. This book attempts to provide clarity to the potential outlook for the nuclear industry by examining the factors that influence it. It includes an analysis of recent trends affecting nuclear power generation while focusing on the specific potential impact of the EPA's proposed Clean Power Program on nuclear power.

The Fukushima nuclear power plant explosions and the Hiroshima/Nagasaki bombings are intimately connected events, bound together across time by a nuclear will to power that holds little regard for life. In Fukushima: Dispossession or Denuclearization? contributors document and explore diverse dispossession effects stemming from this nuclear will to power, including market distortions, radiation damage to personal property, wrecked livelihoods, and transgenerational mutations potentially eroding human health and happiness. Liberal democratic capitalism is itself disclosed as vulnerable to the corrupting influences of the nuclear will to power. Contributors contend that denuclearization stands as the only viable path forward capable of freeing humans from the catastrophic risks engineered into global nuclear networks. They conclude that the choice of dispossession or denuclearization through the pursuit of alternative technologies will determine human survival across the twenty-first century.

The magnitude 9.0 Great East Japan Earthquake occurred on March 11, 2011, claiming over 20,000 lives. It crippled the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, whose hydrogen-air explosions contaminated wide areas around Fukushima with radionuclides. The number of evacuees initially totaled 328,903, but has been reduced to 263,392 as of February 13, 2014. More than half of the evacuees (132,500) consist of Fukushima residents, and 67% of whom have experienced mental or physical disorders. Indeed, refugee life is so difficult that many Fukushima families have been affected by suicide, divorce, separation of family members, migration and settlement to other places, mental illness, etc. The difficulty is caused by the fear of low-dose radiation induced by the LNT model which claims that radiation cancer risk is linearly proportional to dose without any threshold. Careful scrutiny of the model, however, clearly indicates that the linearity is invalid; low dose radiation is not hazardous, but is even beneficial or hormetic because of the adaptive response to radiation. This book provides ample evidence to negate the LNT model. This book is primarily compiled to get rid of the spell of the LNT model and release Fukushima people from undue torture. The book would also be useful to the public in general who have CT scans and have concerns. In addition, the people who use radiation world-wide such as nuclear power plant workers, radiation researchers, radiologists, and X-ray operators would be relieved to learn from reading this book that the alleged risk of low-dose radiation is illusionary and that the low-dose radiation is even beneficial. Policy makers of nuclear energy and radiation who are working for governmental and/or regulatory agencies are also recommended to read this book. Severe guidelines from a safety standpoint sometimes entrap people into a fear-stricken situation rather than save them, as no one was killed by radiation directly, but more than 1,000 people have been killed by the fear of radiation secondarily in Fukushima. By the same token, this book is recommended to civil activists and journalists who emphasise dangers of low-dose radiation and raise fear of low-dose radiation. It is the time to shed new scientific light on the outdated LNT model.