Demolition of Concrete Structures

Summary

Many methods have been developed for the demolition of conventional concrete structures but when the special requirements associated with the demolition of structures in nuclear facilities are imposed considerable revision in working practices is essential. In fact, when these requirements are introduced some of these conventional techniques are completely inappropriate and all other methods need considerable development.

This paper outlines work which has been undertaken under the auspices of and with support from the Commission of the European Community in their research programme on the decommissioning of nuclear facilities. It considers the methods which appear to be most promising and reviews them under three main headings:-

• i) mechanical systems

• ii) chemical techniques

• iii) thermal methods.

Rubble, slag, dust or smoke arising from the various cutting methods is of enormous importance because it is this active waste material which presents the final problem of disposal. Activity of concrete is low, but the reinforcing presents difficulties. It is important that cutting methods should not increase the quantity of radioactive materials arising from the demolition process.

It may be concluded from the work completed that it will be possible to remove activated concrete from nuclear structures in a way which ensures that radioactive materials cannot escape into the environment. Further developments are required to bring procedures to a state where they may be completely acceptable to regulating authorities.