Potential for British research into the transmutation of radioactive wastes and problematic nuclear materials

Issues concerning the management of the UK|s official radioactive wastes and associated surplus radioactive materials are summarised. The potential for partitioning and transmutation (P&T) of these materials is considered and associated potential developments discussed. The paper recommends international P&T research as part of a move to reduce the volume of nuclear waste. This reduction would be beneficial in addressing security and environmental concerns, as well as improving public acceptance of the back-end of the nuclear fuel cycle