Characterising spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and radioactive waste is essential for ensuring safe and efficient interim and final disposal. Precise knowledge of waste properties, including radionuclide composition, decay heat, reactivity, gamma-ray and neutron emission, allows for informed decision-making in storage, transport and disposal. Proper characterisation reduces uncertainties in safety assessments and helps optimise SNF and waste management. This session would explore advancements in characterisation methods and their critical role in the SNF and waste management.

Qualified containers for the various types of low and intermediate level wastes with negligible heat production are an essential part of final waste disposal in the Konrad repository. For this reason, a wide variety of disposal container designs is being developed to meet the requirements according to the regulations of the “final disposal conditions” and “product control” for the Konrad repository. The session addresses experiences and lessons learned about container design testing and approval, highlighting challenges and achievements. Related aspects regarding transportation and interim storage of packages as well as quality assurance measures concerning container fabrication may also be addressed. Additionally, operational topics such as container acceptance, handling and emplacement would also be of interest.

Possible contributions may come from waste producers, container manufacturers, regulator, and independent expert organizations. International contributions related to the topic may also be included.

This session offers the possibility to present talks and posters concerning aspects related to Nuclear waste management related to alternative reactor designs and fusion energy.