Analysis of the changes in tritium discharges from Korean pressurized heavy water reactors due to the operation of tritium removal facilities

In Korean pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs), the tritium removal facility (TRF) has been operational since 2007 to minimize tritium discharges into the environment. This study examined the impact of the TRF on tritium discharges from Korean PHWRs. Before the TRF was implemented, the average annual tritium discharge over a 10-year period was 4.44 × 10 14 Bq y −1 . However, after the TRF commenced operation, this average annual discharge was reduced to 2.89 × 10 14 Bq y −1 over the following 10 years, representing a decrease of approximately 35 %. The introduction of the TRF has played a significant role in lowering the amount of tritium released from Korean PHWRs, thereby minimizing its impact on the surrounding environment and the health of local residents. Therefore, it is essential to continue the operation of the TRF and monitor tritium discharges to effectively manage the radiological risks associated with tritium discharges from Korean PHWRs, while protecting the surrounding environment and public health.