Policy In Review: Past, Present, And Prospects For Spent Nuclear Fuel Reprocessing

The reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) is a controversial step in the nuclear fuel cycle. Conventional PUREX (plutonium uranium reduction extraction) hydrometallurgical reprocessing can recover a large amount of usable material from spent fuel for recycling, thus removing the most attractive weapons-usable material from SNF storage and disposal, but poses proliferation risks due to the production of separated plutonium, which can be used for the manufacture of nuclear explosives. National policies have shifted away from reprocessing given this and other concerns, opting instead for “wait and see” or direct disposal options. Now, as a new generation of innovative power reactor designs emerges, some relying on SNF recycling as their primary nonproliferation benefit, reprocessing is re-entering the conversation about the future of nuclear power. Discussion is ongoing regarding the exact processes to be used in order to extract and recycle fuel, as well as the extent to which plutonium would be separated. As global interest in emerging, or advanced, reactors grows, countries with little or no historical reprocessing are beginning to examine reactors that incorporate recycling. Developers are moving forward with the design and licensing process, but their designs’ development may be brought to a halt if they pursue recycling in countries historically opposed to reprocessing. This paper surveys the history of reprocessing policies worldwide and uses historical trends to inform a discussion of the extent to which reactor developers might expect their recycling-based designs to push policies towards reprocessing. By doing so, this paper aims to further discussion about the prospects for fuel reprocessing and recycling as advanced reactor designs move forward around the world.