Ceramics in nuclear waste management

Ceramics are of special interest for the containment of high-level radioactive wastes. After a brief review of the nuclear fuel cycle, the overall plans for the disposition of the wastes and the requirements these plans place on the properties of the ceramic in which the wastes are incorporated are described. The implementation of high-level waste handling plans in the U. S. and elsewhere and the ongoing R and D to develop improved technology for handling high-level waste are also described.