ABSTRACT
The separation processes and technologies employed in the management of wastes from the uranium fuel cycle are very dependent on factors such as the waste types, its radiological classification, the origin of the waste and the national policy regarding waste treatment and disposal. The geographical area covered by this discussion, mainland Europe and the United Kingdom, represents a number of nations, all of which have their own plans and policies. The most prudent technique that is used in waste treatment per se is segregation, and this will have a significant impact on the selected separation process. This process involves the removal of items that may be troublesome in further treatment of the waste or are prescribed from the disposal route. The nuclear industry generates a substantial quantity of solid wastes that are generally only contaminated at their surface. Typical of these waste types are decommissioning wastes and redundant items of equipment.
