Abstract: The invention relates to the confinement of an alloy formed of actinide transuranic radioactive wastes and beryllium metal within a neutron moderating and reflecting apparatus to cause accelerated destruction (burning) of the actinide wastes. Waste actinides, including plutonium, neptunium, americium, and curium, emit alpha particles by radioactive decay. The alpha particles are converted into neutrons by the beryllium through an alpha-neutron (alpha, n) reaction. The neutrons developed by the alpha, n reaction are moderated by a surrounding layer of graphite, which allows the slowed neutrons to cause additional fission or decay events within the waste actinide alloy. This process is passive because the alpha particles that initiate the actinide burning are an intrinsic physical property of the actinides.

Abstract: The specification describes a container for spent nuclear fuel rods. The basket of the container comprises a plurality of stacked interlocking grid storage assemblies having an "egg crate" structure. The interlocking grid assemblies have radial tab extensions that extend through an intermediate shell and are affixed to an outer casing. The intermediate shell and the outer casing provide double containment, and the radial tab extensions provide heat sinks for transfer of heat from the storage grid assemblies to the exterior of the container.

Abstract: The specification describes a container for spent nuclear fuel rods. The basket of the container comprises a plurality of stacked interlocking grid storage assemblies having an "egg crate" structure. The interlocking grid assemblies have radial tab extensions that extend through an intermediate shell and are affixed to an outer casing. The intermediate shell and the outer casing provide double containment, and the radial tab extensions provide heat sinks for transfer of heat from the storage grid assemblies to the exterior of the container.