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In the Okuma Analysis and Research Center, we are preparing the “Facility for Analysis and Research of Radioactive Materials” where we conduct analysis and research to clarify the characteristics of radioactive wastes and fuel debris generated by the accident of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (1F), Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. In addition, we are preparing to ask third parties to analyze treated water generated form the Advanced Liquid Processing System. Data obtained by the analysis and research are used towards the 1F decommissioning such as to take measures for safe treatments/disposal of radioactive wastes and to establish the basic technology on the safety of the measures.

The Facility for Analysis and Research of Radioactive Materials consists of three buildings. One is the Administration Building where staff etc. perform administration works, and the others two are Laboratory-1 and Laboratory-2 for analysis and research. At the Laboratory-1 where medium- and low-level radioactive wastes are analyzed, the comprehensive functional test at the end of construction is being conducted. For the Laboratory-2 where nuclear fuel debris etc. are analyzed, the detailed design is now being proceeded.

The 1F is the first nuclear power plant to cause the severe accident in Japan. In order to consider and formulate the technological measures for storage, treatments and disposal of radioactive wastes and nuclear fuel debris towards the decommissioning, we must consider that the nuclear fuel debris in the 1F are different from those in the nuclear reactors at the Three-Mile-Island, and Chernobyl. Therefore, it is essential to carefully analyze and clarify the characteristics of the fuel debris for the safe treatments.

Since this facility is unique in the world, the designing, construction, operation, and analysis/research are very challenging attempts. All the JAEA staff are working on such difficult tasks with the strong will that we want to contribute by all means to the safe and secure decommissioning of 1F. These experiences are very valuable as engineers, so we hope that not only in JAEA but also from outside of JAEA, young people and people with various experiences and careers will positively join our project. Thereby, we want to let this project led to the technological advancement and development in all Japan.

I would like to ask for your continued guidance and support for our activities in Okuma Analysis and Research Center.