INVITEDPotentialapplicationsofhigh-powerlasersin.docVIP

Potential applications of high-power lasers in nuclear decontamination and decommissioning JT Spencer*, PL Crouse** , L Li** *Nexia Solutions Ltd, Hinton House, Risley, Warrington, WA3 6AS, UK **Laser Processing Research Centre, School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, Sackville Street, Manchester, M60 1QD, UK E-mail of corresponding author: julian.spencer@ Abstract. Nexia Solutions Ltd (part of the BNFL group) has invested considerably in research and development of laser techniques for use in the nuclear industry. An overview of work completed and potential applications are given. Decontamination techniques discussed include: (a) Laser stripping of paints and other surface over-layers. (b) Scabbling of contaminated concrete surfaces where the top few millimetres of a concrete are heated quickly, but to relatively low temperatures, so that the compressive stresses in the surface material due dehydration and evaporation, along with thermally induced stresses, cause delamination. This technique is well-developed and in principle, concrete waste material removed is easily managed and contained. (c) Sealing of contaminated ceramic surfaces. Here surface over-layers of ceramics, cement and concrete are taken to their melting point, forming a vitreous, diffusion preventing barrier layer. Dismantling and cutting technologies include: (d) Deep-section concrete cutting which involves layer-by-layer laser milling with mechanical removal of the vitrified dross between passes. It is a new technique with a demonstrated capability for cutting to depths up to 500 mm not only of concrete, but also of ceramic and refractory materials. For this application fairly low power densities are required. The use of both high-power CO2 and diode lasers has been demonstrated. (e) Laser oxy-cutting of steel pipes and large diameter steel vessels. The lower unit costs of high-power lasers and compact size are making these techniques more attrac