Zwischenlagerungsfahrten

Zwischenlagerung is a term used to describe temporary storage of materials, designed to bridge time between production and subsequent processing, transport, or disposal. In German-speaking contexts it commonly refers to temporary storage of hazardous or radioactive materials and is used across energy, chemical, and waste-management sectors.

In the nuclear industry, spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste are often kept in interim storage facilities after removal from reactors. These facilities may be located at reactor sites or in dedicated central facilities. Storage relies on containment and shielding to protect workers and the public, and on cooling systems to dissipate decay heat. The most common forms are pool storage (where fuel assemblies are submerged) and dry cask storage (sealed, shielded containers placed in a secure storage area).

Interim storage is governed by safety and environmental regulations and requires licensing, security, monitoring, and emergency planning. While it preserves safety and flexibility, it is not a final disposal solution; long-term plans typically involve reprocessing or final geological disposal. Capacity must be matched to waste generation and planned repositories, and aging infrastructure presents ongoing maintenance considerations.

Outside nuclear contexts, interim storage also refers to warehouses or facilities used to hold hazardous materials, chemicals, or industrial goods during production or shipping delays, or while awaiting processing or disposal. The central concept is temporary storage with controlled conditions and oversight.