Hanford Disposes First Batch of Vitrified Tank Waste, Marking Key Progress

RICHLAND, Wash. - The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Hanford Site and its contractor, Central Plateau Cleanup Company (CPCCo), achieved key progress this week with permanent disposal of the first containers of vitrified low-activity tank waste. This is a pivotal step in the nation's tank waste cleanup mission and demonstrates progress toward steady-state Direct-Feed Low-Activity Waste (DFLAW) operations, permanent disposal, reducing risks and delivering results for the American people.

The stainless steel containers filled with vitrified (glass-solidified) low-activity tank waste produced at the Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant represent the first waste ever placed in the onsite Integrated Disposal Facility. This achievement reflects coordination of engineering, regulatory preparation, construction and readiness activities to safely begin disposal operations.

"This is a proud and meaningful achievement for the entire Hanford team," said Hanford Site Manager Ray Geimer. "Safely beginning disposal shows that the systems, facilities and people needed to support tank waste treatment are working together. Each container placed in the IDF reduces long-term environmental risk and moves us forward on DOE's commitment to protect the community and the environment."

The Integrated Disposal Facility received the first containers last fall, staging them on a nearby concrete pad to prepare them for disposal. About 25 containers are ready to be moved into the disposal cell.

"Starting disposal at IDF demonstrates our shared commitment to mission progress," said CPCCo President Bob Wilkinson. "Every ILAW container safely placed in the disposal facility is another step in addressing Hanford's tank waste legacy and reducing the footprint of risk on the Central Plateau."