Method of installing a vent in a nuclear waste storage system
US4756852A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 4, 1986 |
| Grant date | Jul 12, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 4, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S220/19
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Disclosed is a method of installing a reversibly porous, air-diffusible, water-restrictive, polymer plug in a port that extends through the wall of a nuclear waste storage container. The plug is inserted a predetermined distance, for example, with the aid of a screwdriver applied to a slot in the plug's outer face. When inserted, the plug prevents the loss of nuclear waste through the port while the air-diffusible nature of the material allows gases to pass through the material. The resultant venting action of the plug prevents the creation of pressure differences between the interior of the container and the environment. Thus, the likelihood of the container becoming overpressurized and leaking is minimized. In addition, the water-restrictive nature of the plug material restricts the ingress and egress of water from the container, reducing the likelihood of groundwater contamination during storage. After insertion, a portion of the plug left projecting from the container's surface is removed, protecting the plug from external forces and tampering.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.