Argonne-West Waste Characterization Area for mixed TRU waste

Argonne National Laboratory-West has developed characterize and repackage transuranic mixed waste, the Waste Characterization Area (WCA). This new facility is designed to current Department of Energy design criteria for radioactive waste handling facilities Characterization and repackaging of real waste within the WCA began in April 1994. Characterization operations include visual examination of solid waste and drum headspace and inner bag gas sample collection and analysis. Additions planned for the WCA in late 1994 include equipment for sludge waste core sample extraction, preparation, and analysis. This paper addresses general design strategy, facility features, and specialized equipment associated with the WCA.