SwRI: The Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses resolves technical and regulatory issues for a potential geologic repository for spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste.

  image of CNWRA<sup>®</sup> scientist-built numerical simulations used to model the behavior of geologic repositories
 

CNWRA® scientists build numerical simulations to model the behavior of geologic repositories. This simulation shows the evolution of liquid water content near an emplacement tunnel for high-level radioactive waste. Cooler colors represent wetter regions. The red region has dried completely in response to decay heat from the emplaced waste.

Established in 1987 as a federally funded research and development center, the Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses (CNWRA®) is sponsored by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

 

The overall mission of the CNWRA is to resolve technical and regulatory issues related to a potential geologic repository for spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste. 

 

Evolving from and expanding on its initial mission, CNWRA has developed a unique and powerful range of technical expertise, computer software, laboratory facilities, and field research sites. The Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses focuses these capabilities on solving and addressing complex earth sciences and engineering problems related to:

  • Transportation of radioactive materials

  • Storage and disposal of radioactive wastes

  • Environmental assessments

  • Safety evaluations of nuclear fuel cycle facilities

      image of models built by CNWRA scientists that reflect complex source zone geometry and wave propagation through faulted geologic terrain, information essential for modern site characterization
     

    CNWRA scientists have developed models that reflect complex source zone geometry and wave propagation through faulted geologic terrain, information essential for modern site characterization.

  • Decommissioning of nuclear facilities

In addition to providing comprehensive technical assistance and research support to the NRC, the CNWRA extends its expertise to other U.S. government agencies within a multidisciplinary, integrated framework. CNWRA now performs work for commercial clients as well as local, state, and foreign governments and agencies with responsibilities related to radioactive materials.


 

For more information about the Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses capabilities at SwRI or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Dr. Budhi Sagar at bsagar@swri.org or (210) 522-5252.

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Southwest Research Institute® (SwRI®) is an independent, nonprofit, applied engineering and physical sciences research and development organization with 12 technical divisions using multidisciplinary approaches to problem solving. The Institute occupies more than 1,200 acres and provides nearly two million square feet of laboratories, test facilities, workshops, and offices for more than 3,300 employees who perform contract work for industry and government clients.