säteilyaltaan

Säteilyaltaan, often translated as radiation pool or spent fuel pool, is a type of water-filled basin used in nuclear facilities for storing spent nuclear fuel. These pools are typically constructed from reinforced concrete and lined with stainless steel to ensure structural integrity and prevent leakage. The water serves multiple crucial purposes. Firstly, it acts as a coolant, absorbing the decay heat generated by the spent fuel rods, which continue to release heat even after they are removed from a reactor. Secondly, the water provides effective shielding against the intense gamma and neutron radiation emitted by the spent fuel, protecting personnel and the environment.

Spent fuel assemblies are usually stored vertically in racks within the pool. The depth of the water, often several meters, is sufficient to attenuate radiation to safe levels. The water is continuously circulated and purified to maintain its clarity and chemical properties, preventing corrosion of the fuel cladding and ensuring its cooling efficiency. Säteilyaltaan are a critical component of the safe handling and interim storage of radioactive materials in the nuclear fuel cycle. They allow spent fuel to cool down and its radioactivity to decay over a period of years before it can be considered for further processing, reprocessing, or permanent disposal. The design and operation of these pools are subject to stringent safety regulations and oversight by nuclear regulatory bodies.