The Department of Energy is seeking additional time to evaluate options for stabilizing the second waste storage tunnel at the Hanford Site’s PUREX plant. It is proposing convening a “best and brightest” panel of experts to consider the tunnel design, operating history, and waste inventory, which would inform a decision on how to deal with the tunnel.
The Washington state Department of Ecology had ordered DOE to submit a report by Tuesday regarding its plan for stabilizing both the first tunnel, which was discovered partially collapsed on May 9, and the second tunnel. The document it received Tuesday did not meet the requirement for a plan for Tunnel 2, Ecology said in a statement. Tunnel 1 was not an issue, after DOE and the state agreed before the Tuesday deadline that DOE should proceed with grouting as the means of stabilization.
The Energy Department has not said publicly now much more time it needs.
Although the state’s requirements were not met, the Department of Ecology indicated it would consider DOE’s proposal. “Their proposal to convene a panel of experts to analyze options to stabilize Tunnel 2 and the waste in it has merit, especially if it results in a robust solution that all agree will be adequately protective,” the Department of Ecology said in a statement. However, the agency is concerned that it might be difficult for DOE to meet the upcoming Oct. 2 deadline to submit a proposal for safe storage of the waste in both tunnels.
The Energy Department told the state it would ramp up surveillance and maintenance of Tunnel 2 until a decision is made on stabilization and work is completed. Options being considered for stabilizing Tunnel 2 include covering it, filling it with grout or another substance, conducting a controlled collapse, or digging up its waste. The tunnel holds 28 railcars loaded with old equipment that is highly contaminated with radioactive waste.
