Study on the Spent Fuel Management in Different Developed Countries

Abstract Spent fuel is nuclear fuel that has been exposed to radiation, usually produced by nuclear reactors in nuclear power plants, and is an inevitable product of the development of nuclear energy. Spent fuel contains a large amount of radioactive elements, which are characterized by high levels of radioactivity, difficult processing techniques, and strict safety management requirements. It is related to the sustainable development of nuclear energy, as well as the safety of the environment and human life. Ensuring long-term safety management of spent fuel has always been an important prerequisite for countries around the world to develop nuclear energy. To this end, major nuclear power countries around the world have established complete management systems and mechanisms, formulated sound policies and regulations, and ensured the systematization, standardization, and effectiveness of the entire process of spent fuel management. This study focus on national management policies and regulatory systems, investigates the practices of spent fuel management in major nuclear power countries such as France, Japan, and South Korea, and summarizes experience to provide relevant inspiration and suggestions for the management of spent fuel in China. Study has shown that it is necessary to strengthen top-level design, clarify the responsibility and authority boundaries of all parties involved, and to formulate policy systems such as the long-term development plans for the industry.