Monday 10 February 2025

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL) has supported the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) in developing options to immobilise the UK’s inventory of civil separated plutonium at Sellafield as reflected in the recent Government policy decision.  

The decision to pursue immobilisation represents a significant step forward in addressing the long-term management of this material, putting it beyond reach and better mitigating safety and security risks. 

As the UK’s lead civil national laboratory for nuclear fission, UKNNL will play a crucial role in the research and development work to identify the optimal immobilisation technology, working alongside the NDA and partners to convert the material to a safer, more stable form suitable for final disposal in a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF). 

Wayne Muckley, Vice President Legacy Sites at UKNNL, said: 

“We are delighted to support this crucial programme, working hand-in-hand with the NDA to develop innovative capabilities that will help create plutonium waste forms suitable for geological disposal. 

“UKNNL brings decades of experience in plutonium science. We have extensive plutonium management capabilities at our Central Laboratory and continue to support the NDA and Sellafield Ltd in the safe management of the UK’s plutonium stockpile. Our expertise in fuel manufacturing and waste processing will be vital in developing the final disposition solution. 

“Importantly, this programme isn’t just about technology – it’s about people. We’ll be focusing on developing the critical skills and experience needed to build a workforce capable of operating a full-scale facility safely, securely and efficiently for years to come. This is a significant milestone for the UK’s nuclear sector, and we’re proud to play our part in delivering this key government priority.” 

UKNNL will work closely with the NDA and its operating companies including Sellafield Ltd and Nuclear Waste Services together with the wider supply chain to deliver this vital programme for the UK’s nuclear sector. 

Image credit: GOV.UK, Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, Sellafield LTD and Nuclear Waste Services