ONDRAF/NIRAS - Dessel – Technical assistance CAT A

The Challenge

In June 2006, the Belgian federal government entrusted ONDRAF/NIRAS with the mission to develop a surface disposal solution for category A radioactive waste—low- and medium-level, short-lived waste—at Dessel. This initiative, known as the cAt project, required a robust and long-term infrastructure capable of safely containing radioactive materials for up to 300 years. The technical complexity of designing monoliths, storage modules, and protective covers, while ensuring environmental safety and regulatory compliance, posed a significant challenge in terms of engineering, logistics, and risk management.

The Solution

As ONDRAF/NIRAS’s technical advisor, Tractebel delivered comprehensive support throughout the project lifecycle. This began with a feasibility study covering site selection, technology assessment, and return on investment. Tractebel then provided technical assistance across all phases, including safety file development, industrial risk analyses (HAZOP), regulatory support, full design of operational and closure phases, and procurement consultation. To validate the long-term safety of the final multi-layer cover, Tractebel also designed and implemented a test cover to monitor key environmental and structural parameters over several decades.

The Impact

Tractebel’s integrated engineering and advisory services enabled the successful realization of a secure and sustainable disposal site for low-level radioactive waste in Belgium. The project ensures long-term containment and environmental protection, transforming a complex technical challenge into a reliable infrastructure that safeguards public health and the ecosystem. The site now stands as a benchmark for radioactive waste management, with its innovative design and operational resilience contributing to national and international confidence in Belgium’s nuclear safety strategy.