News On Japan

Fuel Debris Removal Restarts: How Dangerous Is It?

TOKYO, Sep 12 (News On Japan) - The removal of fuel debris, a crucial and highly challenging part of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant decommissioning process, has resumed. This process, regarded as the most difficult aspect of the decommissioning effort, focuses on extracting melted and solidified nuclear fuel, known as fuel debris, from the plant's reactors.

Professor Takashi Okamoto from the University of Tokyo explained the operation, which took place on September 10 at the No. 2 reactor. Due to the extreme radiation levels inside the containment vessel, the debris can only be removed using robots.

Fuel debris is extremely hazardous due to its high radiation levels, making it impossible for humans to access the area without severe risk. In this operation, robots were deployed alongside human workers, although even the areas where people were present had relatively high radiation levels, complicating the task. The total amount of fuel debris in reactors 1 to 3 is estimated to be about 880 tons, but only a small quantity -- less than 3 grams -- was removed during this phase due to the high radiation risks.

The operation has made significant progress, with the successful insertion of the equipment into the containment vessel marking a major step forward. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) considers this the first phase of the operation, an important milestone in the long and complex process of fuel debris removal. According to Professor Okamoto, the removal of debris is challenging because it must be done entirely by robots, given the hazardous nature of the material and the inability of humans to approach it.

There are no concerns about radioactive contamination or a potential recriticality during the operation, as the amount being removed is very small. Even if the process fails, there would be no environmental impact, and the task could be redone. The extracted fuel debris will be analyzed at a research facility in Ibaraki Prefecture to study its crystal structure, which will help develop future strategies for more extensive debris removal.

While there are 880 tons of fuel debris remaining, Professor Okamoto expressed cautious optimism that once they understand the condition of the material inside, it may be possible to remove the rest within a reasonable timeframe. The overall goal is to complete the decommissioning by 2051, with the removal and safe storage of the debris as the top priority.

Source: FNN

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries held an emergency meeting to address the rapid outbreak of avian influenza, urging prefectural governments to strengthen hygiene management measures.

Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.

A special lighting ceremony was held on November 20th at Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The event featured a unique lighting design created by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii.

A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.

Sales for the Year-End Jumbo Lottery, which offers a combined prize of 1 billion yen for the first prize and adjacent prizes, have officially begun.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Sci-Tech NEWS

A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.

Japan' Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Muto announced on November 19th that the government has decided to cease its support for APB, a company pioneering the development of the world's first all-resin battery.

デスクで効率的に作業するには、ただ座って作業を開始するだけでは不十分です。

Infections of lumpy skin disease have been confirmed among dairy cattle in Fukuoka Prefecture, western Japan, for the first time in the country. (NHK)

Hydrogen, anticipated as the next-generation automotive fuel, is seeing accelerated efforts for its real-world implementation. Toyota Motor Corporation unveiled its first hybrid vehicle that combines a hydrogen-powered engine and an electric motor, announcing plans to conduct on-road tests starting next spring.

Many people, especially children, dread injections. However, companies in the Kansai region are advancing the development of 'painless injections,' utilizing innovative technologies.

This year's 'Global Digital Competitiveness Ranking' was released, placing Japan at 31st among 67 countries and regions, up one position from last year.

Japan's largest comprehensive media exhibition has commenced, bringing together cutting-edge broadcasting equipment, including a camera capable of capturing clear images even in complete darkness.