Method for carrying out a release process for a, in particular at least partially radioactive, measured item, computer program product and system

Abstract

Method (100) for carrying out a release process of a, in particular at least partially radioactive, measured material (10), comprising the following steps: - Recording (111) preliminary activity data (11) of the sample (10) depending on a preliminary investigation (110), - Preparation of the preliminary evaluation (112) of the preliminary investigation (110) of the measured material (10), - Planning (113) a subsequent part of the release process depending on the preliminary evaluation (112) and on a method of carrying out a decision measurement (140) for the release (150) of the measured item (10), - Performing the decision measurement (140) in a clearance measurement facility (1), wherein the decision measurement (140) is carried out using the method in which a detection (141) and an evaluation (142) of a radioactive activity distribution in the measured material (10) is carried out, wherein the preparation of the preliminary evaluation (112) of the measured material (10) is carried out taking into account the preliminary activity data (11) with regard to a specification criterion (111.1) for specifying at least a part of the release process by the measured material (10), wherein the release process begins with the dismantling of the measured material (10) in a nuclear facility (8), wherein the preliminary investigation (110) takes place in the nuclear facility (8) to record (112) the preliminary activity data (11).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for carrying out a release process of a, preferably at least partially radioactive, measured material, a computer program product and a system for carrying out a release process of a, preferably at least partially radioactive, measured material.

[0002] Clearance measurements for radioactive waste are a common practice in the decommissioning of nuclear facilities, such as nuclear power plants. The goal is generally to direct as high a proportion of the waste as possible to conventional waste management, such as recycling. Waste that cannot be cleared due to its radioactive contamination is usually prepared for storage in a final repository. To carry out these clearance measurements, the waste is typically analyzed in individual, pre-sorted batches to determine its radioactivity levels against legally defined limits. However, the batches are normally considered as a single unit for these measurements, meaning that a statement regarding the release of the waste can only be made for the entire batch.Therefore, typically only small quantities of the residual materials are individually tested, which can increase the duration and cost of the clearance measurement process. Larger batches exceeding a limit value are often manually divided into smaller batches. Furthermore, an orientation measurement is usually necessary to confirm the homogeneity of the activity distribution before the actual decision measurement regarding the release of the residual materials is performed. For the orientation measurement, the residual materials usually require pretreatment. If the residual materials contain pipes, these are typically halved and the pipe halves straightened to provide a flat surface for the orientation measurement. However, the orientation measurement and the necessary pretreatment are usually time-consuming and expensive.

[0003] Document EP 0 406 158 A2 discloses a method for measuring the radioactivity of metallic or cement-containing objects. Document JP 2019-049 512 A describes another measurement system for radioactivity, document JP 2008 111 793 A a method for determining a conversion factor in a radioactivity measurement, and document US 2006 / 0 193 421 A1 a monitoring method.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome the aforementioned disadvantages known from the prior art. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to simplify, and preferably shorten, the release process for a test object, preferably one that is at least partially radioactive.

[0005] The foregoing problem is solved by a method with the features of claim 1, a computer program product with the features of claim 16, and a system with the features of claim 13. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the respective dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the method according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the computer program product and / or the system according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention always makes, or can make, reciprocal references.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, a method for carrying out a release process for a sample, preferably at least partially radioactive, is provided. The method comprises the following steps: - Creating a preliminary evaluation of a preliminary investigation of the measured material, preferably by a preliminary evaluation module of a control unit, - Planning a subsequent part of the release process depending on the preliminary evaluation and on a method of implementing a decision measurement for the release of the measured item, preferably by a planning module of the control unit, - Performing the decision measurement in a clearance measurement system, preferably by a decision module of the control unit, wherein the decision measurement is carried out using the method in which a, in particular local, radioactive activity distribution in the measured material is detected and evaluated.

[0007] The material being measured is preferably a potentially radioactive material, at least partially or completely. Therefore, it is particularly possible that at the start of the process it is not yet known whether the material is radioactive or not. The material being measured may include residual materials, for example, from the dismantling of a nuclear facility such as a nuclear power plant. The material being measured may preferably include or consist of metal waste. However, it is also conceivable that the material being measured may include building materials, such as concrete and / or construction debris, and / or residual materials consisting of several components, such as cables. Advantageously, the material being measured may have a mass of over 50 kg, preferably between 50 and 100 kg or between 300 and 400 kg.

[0008] The release process can be understood as a preparatory process for the release of the measured product. Decision measurement can provide the release decision even before the product is officially released, for example, by an authority. However, it is equally conceivable that the release decision directly triggers the release. The release process can advantageously begin by starting a computer program, by entering information, and / or by conducting a preliminary examination.

[0009] The preliminary investigation can include a radiological characterization of the sample and / or an initial measurement of its activity. For example, the radiological characterization can identify the type of radioactive radiation present. Furthermore, the preliminary investigation can provide an initial assessment of the degree of radioactive contamination of the sample. This preliminary evaluation can be performed during the preliminary investigation itself. It can be carried out locally at the site of the preliminary investigation or centrally, for example, in a clearance measurement facility.

[0010] The subsequent part of the release process can be understood as the part of the release process that follows directly or indirectly from the planning phase, up to and including decision measurement. For example, planning can be carried out immediately after the preliminary evaluation. When planning this subsequent part of the release process, further process steps leading up to decision measurement can be determined and / or defined. Because the planning of this subsequent part of the release process depends on the method used for the subsequent decision measurement, the further release process can be tailored to that method. For example, specific preparatory steps can be taken that are advantageous for conducting the decision measurement using the chosen method.Further process steps, such as grinding, forming, disassembling, and / or decontaminating the sample, can be planned and / or omitted. Furthermore, suitable measurement methods for the subsequent part of the release process can be selected during the planning phase. Finally, a disposal target for the sample can be defined during the planning phase.

[0011] The implementation method thus includes, in particular, a decision measurement process in which the activity distribution is identified and evaluated. This decision measurement can include the identification and localization of so-called "hotspots." The activity distribution can be calculated using a model and / or measured directly on the sample in the clearance measurement system. The activity distribution can be understood, in particular, as the local distribution of radioactive activity within the sample. Specifically, the evaluation of the activity distribution allows for the assessment and verification of the homogeneity of the sample's activity with regard to its release. Furthermore, the improved decision measurement can reduce radioactive waste or enable the release of a larger quantity of residual materials. Advantageously, the preliminary evaluation can be considered during the decision measurement process.Determining the activity distribution can preferably be based on probability calculations. The activity distribution may exhibit an uncertainty, which can be described by a confidence interval. Preferably, it is provided that an actual value or values ​​of the activity distribution are less than an upper confidence limit of the confidence interval with a probability, preferably 95% or higher.

[0012] The activity or radioactivity of the sample can be understood, in particular, as radioactive activity, i.e., specifically a decay rate. The activity distribution can be understood, in particular, as the distribution of activity over an area and / or volume of the sample. The activity distribution can, for example, include an activity profile along the dimensions of the sample and / or an activity gradient. By detecting and evaluating the radioactive activity distribution in the sample, the decision measurement can, in particular, replace an orientation measurement, i.e., produce a similar result. Thus, it is conceivable that, when planning the subsequent part of the release process, it is determined, depending on the method used for the decision measurement, that an orientation measurement of the sample and / or pretreatment of the sample is omitted.During the planning phase, the requirements of decision measurement regarding the measured object and / or the preliminary investigation can be taken into account. By planning in conjunction with the method of conducting the decision measurement, the approval process can thus be shortened and / or simplified.

[0013] Furthermore, in a method according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that, for the purpose of detecting the activity distribution, localized activity data of a section of the sample are detected and evaluated when assessing the activity distribution, taking material data into account. The localized activity data can be acquired by measuring the radioactivity of the sample. In particular, the localized activity data can describe the activity at specific measurement and / or reference points of the sample. The localized activity data can relate, in particular, to the geometry of the sample and / or individual parts of the sample. For example, the localized activity data can be used to determine, during the assessment, whether activity increases or decreases in a specific direction.The material data can be used, in particular, to calculate the activity distribution and / or local activity data based on a measured total activity or on various individual activities. The material data itself can be localized. For example, the sample in a specific section may differ from other sections in its geometry, composition, and / or other characteristics. This can improve the accuracy of identifying the activity distribution. To evaluate the activity distribution, the localized activity data can be related to a predetermined averaging area and / or a section of the sample and / or normalized by a predetermined averaging area. For example, a minimum and / or maximum value can be specified for the predetermined averaging area, such as an averaging area of ​​up to 300 cm². 2 or up to 1000 cm 2, be predetermined.

[0014] Preferably, a method according to the invention may include estimating the surface area of ​​the sample, based on material data, to evaluate the activity distribution, particularly locally. The surface area of ​​the sample can be understood to be, in particular, the cumulative surface area of ​​the entire sample or a section thereof. The surface area can be formed by the lateral surfaces of individual components of the residual materials within the sample. The surface area can be estimated, for example, based on the density and material type of the sample. The density can preferably be determined as a function of the volume and mass of the sample. For this purpose, the sample can be weighed during the decision measurement. To determine the volume, the sample can be placed in a standard container in which the decision measurement is performed.By considering the surface area when evaluating the activity distribution, surface contamination of the sample can be assessed. This can reduce or eliminate the need for separate area detectors.

[0015] Furthermore, in a method according to the invention, it is conceivable that, when evaluating the activity distribution, an area-related and / or mass-related assessment of the release capability of the measured material is carried out depending on the homogeneity of the activity distribution, in particular so that an assessment of the release capability and proof of the release capability for area release and / or mass release is possible based on the activity distribution. The assessment of the release capability can be equivalent to the result of an orientation measurement. In the area-related and / or mass-related assessment, the material data can be taken into account. The assessment can be output and / or made available to a user, in particular for area and / or mass release. In particular, a result of the decision measurement can be output as a protocol and / or report.When assessing homogeneity, it may be necessary to check the localized activity data against a predetermined activity limit. This can be used, for example, to verify whether the activity in a material section exhibits a high gradient and / or exceeds the activity limit.

[0016] Furthermore, in a method according to the invention, it is conceivable that the material to be measured comprises shaped parts with a three-dimensional extent, wherein the decision measurement is carried out using the shaped parts. The shaped parts can, for example, include pipes, I-beams, and / or the like. For example, pretreatment in the form of deformation of the shaped parts can be omitted. In the area-related assessment of the material to be measured, the surface area of ​​the material in a section of the material can be estimated and / or calculated. In particular, a maximum surface area value in the material section can be determined. By omitting the orientation measurement, it may not be necessary to produce a flat surface from the three-dimensional shaped parts. The local activity data and / or the material data can preferably be used to infer a, in particular local, surface activity of the shaped parts.This allows proof of the area release to be provided within the framework of decision measurement.

[0017] Furthermore, in a method according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that, during the decision measurement, at least two sections of the sample are defined as geometrically defined zones for the non-contact subdivision of the sample, wherein the localized activity data for at least one of the zones are determined and evaluated to assess the radioactive activity distribution. Preferably, the localized activity data for each of the zones are determined and evaluated to assess the radioactive activity distribution. The zones can be virtual zones. To determine the localized activity data for at least one of the zones, a measurement of the radioactivity occurring can be performed. Based on the measured radioactivity, the activity data can be assigned to the zone or zones.For example, a measuring chamber in which the sample is positioned can have several detectors for measuring radioactive radiation. Multiple localized activity data for different zones can be determined from several individual radiation measurements or from a single measurement taken by the detectors. The measured radiation can be assigned to the individual zones. By identifying the localized activity data, a radioactive activity, i.e., in particular a decay rate, can be determined for each zone.

[0018] In particular, the localized activity data describe the radiation of a specific zone. Preferably, the localized activity data represent the number of nuclear decays per time interval in the respective zone. The localized activity data can, for example, be expressed in becquerels. Determining the localized activity data can, in particular, include estimating it. For example, for each zone, a probability can be determined that a specific photon detected by the detectors originates from that zone. A numerical analysis, especially in the form of conditional entropy maximization (CEM), can be performed to determine the localized activity data from the measured radiation.

[0019] Furthermore, in a method according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that, when detecting the activity distribution, at least one activity region in the sample is detected, in particular wherein at least one of the sample sections is defined based on the activity region. The sample section can, in particular, be formed by a partial area of ​​the sample. The activity region can, in particular, be formed by a hotspot of activity within the sample. Detecting the at least one activity region can, in particular, be understood as locating a radiation source within the sample. For example, a highly radiating area within the sample can constitute the activity region or the origin of the activity region. The activity region can, in particular, be detected by moving the sample.For example, if the sample is moved towards a specific detector, a change in radiation intensity at the detector can be measured and evaluated to identify the activity range. If the zones are defined such that one of them encompasses the activity range, it can be ensured that the localized activity data for the respective zone fully, and in particular completely, covers the corresponding activity range. Preferably, several activity ranges can be identified in the sample, which are taken into account when defining the zones, preferably such that each activity range is enclosed by a zone. This allows multiple activity ranges, which are considered together when assessing overall activity—i.e., whose radiation is cumulatively included in the overall activity—to be considered separately when evaluating the activity distribution by defining the zones.

[0020] Furthermore, in a method according to the invention, it can advantageously be provided that the material data of the sample being measured are recorded during the preliminary investigation and / or during the decision measurement. Recording the material data can include data acquisition. For example, it is conceivable that recording the material data and / or recognizing the localized activity data includes receiving user input and / or retrieving the material data and / or the localized activity data from a database. For instance, the material data can be entered at least partially manually and made available to a control unit for performing the decision measurement. Furthermore, it can be provided that the material data are measured at least partially. For example, the mass of the sample being measured can be measured during the decision measurement using a scale in the clearance measurement system.This allows the determination of material data to be integrated into existing process steps. In particular, this eliminates the need for a separate measurement of the material data.

[0021] Preferably, in a method according to the invention, the material data may include at least one or a combination of several, preferably all, of the following material properties: - Mass of the material being measured, - Density of the material being measured, - Volume of the material being measured, - Geometry of the measured item, - Material type of the item being measured.

[0022] Material data can be determined based on user input and / or a material database. For example, material data can be entered manually at the measuring system and / or retrieved from the material database. The material database can be part of the measuring system and / or stored on an external server. For example, the material data can be based on empirical values. The mass of the sample can be determined, in particular, by weighing it in the measuring system. The density of the sample can be calculated from its mass and volume. The volume of the sample can be determined using a standard container in which it is located. The material type of the sample can include a material classification based on its physical properties. For example, the material type could be "metal," "construction waste," or similar. The geometry of the sample can be derived from the material type.For example, the material type "construction waste" suggests that the material being measured is bulk material.

[0023] Preferably, in a method according to the invention, the creation of the preliminary evaluation and / or the planning of the subsequent part of the release process can be repeated, particularly continuously. The repetition of the preliminary evaluation and / or the planning can take place at regular or irregular intervals. This allows the available information to be evaluated and the release process to be optimized. For example, data can be input to a control unit of the clearance measurement system after each measurement during the release process.

[0024] Furthermore, in a method according to the invention, it is advantageously provided that the method comprises the following step: - Recording preliminary activity data of the sample depending on the preliminary investigation, The preliminary evaluation of the measured item, taking into account the material data and / or preliminary activity data, is carried out with regard to a specification criterion, in particular with regard to an estimate of the fulfillment of the specification criterion, to specify at least part of the release process by the measured item, and in particular where the preliminary evaluation is taken into account in the decision measurement. The preliminary activity data can be measured during the preliminary investigation. In particular, the preliminary activity data can differ from the localized activity data. The preliminary activity data can refer to the entire measured item and / or be recorded during an initial, particularly rough, measurement. The specification of the part of the release process can, for example, be a legal requirement. If the specification criterion is fulfilled, a prerequisite for the application of the specification may be met.This allows, for example, an initial assessment based on preliminary activity data of the measured item as to whether an orientation measurement is legally required when conducting the decision measurement, according to the method of implementation. For instance, the assessment could include determining a probability value of whether the target criterion is met. Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that the assessment of whether the target criterion is met is carried out under predetermined assumptions and / or models. The target criterion can define a requirement for an evaluation of the measured item by means of an orientation measurement, in particular where the planning of the subsequent part of the release process defines omitting the orientation measurement if the probability of meeting the target criterion is low.This allows for an early decision to be made regarding the further course of the release process, based on initial measurements.

[0025] Furthermore, in a method according to the invention, the release process begins during the dismantling of the test specimen in a nuclear facility, with the preliminary investigation taking place in the nuclear facility to acquire preliminary activity data. The term "nuclear facility" can refer, for example, to a nuclear power plant. However, other nuclear facilities where radioactive waste is generated are also conceivable. Thus, when planning the subsequent part of the release process, the dismantling of the nuclear facility can be planned with a view to the decision-making measurement. For example, certain preparatory actions, such as the crushing of molded parts, can be omitted on site. This allows the release process to be controlled as efficiently as possible from the outset.

[0026] According to a further aspect of the invention, a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed, in particular the computer program product, by a control unit cause the control unit to execute a method according to one of the preceding claims.

[0027] Thus, a computer program product according to the invention offers the same advantages as those already described in detail with reference to a method according to the invention. The computer program product can be implemented as computer-readable instruction code in any suitable programming language, such as Java, C++, C#, and / or Python. The computer program product can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium such as a data disk, a removable drive, volatile and / or non-volatile memory, or an integrated memory / processor. The instruction code can program the control unit such that the desired functions are executed. Furthermore, the computer program product can be made available on a network, such as the Internet, from which it can be downloaded by a user as needed.The computer program product can be implemented using software, one or more special electronic circuits (i.e., in hardware), or in any hybrid form (i.e., using software components and hardware components).

[0028] According to a further aspect of the invention, a system for carrying out a release process for a sample, preferably at least partially radioactive, is provided. The system comprises a clearance measurement system with a measuring device that has several detectors for measuring radioactive radiation from the sample. Furthermore, the system comprises a control unit for controlling the release process, which includes a pre-evaluation module for generating a preliminary evaluation of the sample, a planning module for planning a subsequent part of the release process depending on the pre-evaluation and on the method of performing a decision measurement for releasing the sample. The control unit also includes a decision module for performing the decision measurement, with the method of detecting and evaluating a radioactive activity distribution in the sample.

[0029] Thus, a system according to the invention offers the same advantages as those already described in detail with reference to a method and / or a computer program product according to the invention. The control unit can comprise electronics and / or a processor, in particular a microprocessor. The modules, i.e., in particular the pre-valuation module, the planning module, and / or the decision module, can be formed by electronic circuits, memory areas, in particular with stored program code, and / or the like. The clearance measurement system can be understood in particular as a measuring system for performing the decision measurement. The clearance measurement system can in particular have a measuring chamber for receiving the material to be measured. The detectors can be arranged within the measuring chamber. The detectors can in particular be designed to detect and / or count photons that strike the detectors.In particular, the detectors can enable 4π detection to locate the activity zones. Preferably, the measuring chamber is shielded against radiation. This can improve the system's safety against radiation from the material being measured. Simultaneously, the influence of external radiation on the measured radiation can be reduced or prevented. The control unit can preferably be integrated into the clearance measurement system. However, it is also conceivable that the control unit is located at least partially or completely outside the clearance measurement system. Furthermore, the clearance measurement system can include a detection device for recording material data, a position within the measuring chamber, and / or the geometry of the material being measured.

[0030] To acquire the localized activity data, the clearance measurement system can include a means of movement for positioning the sample relative to the detectors. During positioning, the sample can be moved relative to the detectors into at least one position, preferably at least two different positions, within the measurement chamber, in each of which the localized activity data is acquired. It is also conceivable that the acquisition of the localized activity data occurs during a relative movement of the sample to the detectors. Furthermore, it may be sufficient to move the sample into a measurement position to acquire the localized activity data. For this purpose, the control unit can include an area detection module for recognizing at least one activity area within the sample as a function of the relative movement.The moving device can include a drive, for example, in the form of an electric motor and / or a pneumatic drive. Preferably, the moving device is designed to move the sample within the measuring device, particularly within the measuring chamber. For this purpose, the moving device can include a conveying element, such as a roller conveyor with driven rollers or a conveyor belt. However, it is also conceivable that the moving device is designed to move the detectors relative to the sample. In this case, the sample can be rigidly positioned within the measuring chamber. For moving the detectors, the moving device can, for example, include a linear drive. By positioning the sample relative to the detectors, the accuracy of the activity data acquisition can be improved, particularly by localizing the activity areas.

[0031] Furthermore, in a system according to the invention, the control unit is designed to execute a method according to the invention. For example, the control unit can be designed to control further components of the clearance measurement system in order to execute the process steps, in particular automatically.

[0032] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. The drawings schematically show: Fig. 1 a system according to the invention for carrying out a release process, Fig. 2 a method according to the invention for carrying out the release process with a computer program product according to the invention for executing the method, Fig. 3. A schematic representation of the decision measurement of the procedure, Fig. 4. a preliminary investigation for the release process, and Fig. 5 an activity distribution in the procedure.

[0033] In the following description of some embodiments of the invention, the same reference numerals are used for the same technical features even in different embodiments.

[0034] Fig. Figure 1 shows a system 9 according to the invention for carrying out a release process for a material 10, in particular one that is at least partially radioactive. For this purpose, the system 9 comprises a clearance measurement system 1 with a measuring device 3. The measuring device 3 includes a measuring chamber 2 for receiving the material 10. The measuring chamber 2 is preferably shielded against radioactive radiation so that the radiation from the material 10 cannot escape to the outside or can only do so to a reduced extent. Furthermore, the measuring device 3 has several detectors 3.1 for measuring radioactivity, i.e., in particular radiation, of the material 10. The detectors 3.1 are arranged, in particular, on the inner surfaces of the measuring chamber 2. The material 10 comprises, in particular, residual materials from a nuclear facility 8. In particular, the material 10 also comprises several shaped parts 10.1, e.g., in the form of tubes, with a three-dimensional extent.Furthermore, a detection device 4 is provided, by which the sample 10 can be detected in the measuring chamber 2. The detection device 4 can be designed for the detection of the sample 10, particularly optically, for example by means of a laser measuring device. It is also conceivable that the detection device 4 includes a scale by which material data 13 in the form of a mass of the detection device 4 can be detected and by which the sample 10 can be located in the measuring chamber 2. Additionally or alternatively, the detection device 4 can be designed for the data-based detection of the sample 10, for example by a user confirming the position of the sample 10 in the measuring chamber 10. Furthermore, the material data 13 can be made available, at least partially, by user input at a user interface 7 of the clearance measuring system 1 of the control unit 5.Furthermore, the measuring system 1 has a control unit 5 for carrying out a method 100 according to the invention for carrying out the release process of the measured material 10.

[0035] Procedure 100 for carrying out the release process is in Fig. Figure 2 is shown schematically. A computer program product 200 according to the invention can be provided, comprising instructions 201 which, when executed by the control unit 5, cause the control unit 5 to execute the method 100. Depending on a preliminary investigation 110, a preliminary evaluation 112 is generated, in particular by a preliminary evaluation module 5.1 of the control unit 5. The preliminary investigation 110 can be carried out, in particular, in the nuclear facility 8 and / or before the decommissioning of the nuclear facility 8.

[0036] A schematic representation of the preliminary investigation 110 is shown in particular in Fig. 4 shown. The preliminary investigation 110 includes the acquisition 111 of preliminary activity data 11 of the sample 10. For example, the preliminary activity data 11 may relate to the entire volume of the sample 10, as shown in Fig. Figure 5 illustrates this. The preliminary activity data 11 are evaluated, in particular, within the framework of the preliminary evaluation 112. For this purpose, the preliminary evaluation 112 of the measured item 10 can be carried out, taking into account the material data 13 and / or the preliminary activity data 11, to estimate whether the measured item 10 fulfills at least one specification criterion 111.1 for specifying at least one part of the release process. Depending on the preliminary evaluation 112, a subsequent part of the release process is planned 113, in particular by a planning module 5.2 of the control unit 5. During the planning 113, a method for carrying out a decision measurement 140 for the release 150 of the measured item 10 is also considered. The decision measurement 140 preferably takes place immediately before the release 150 in the clearance measurement system 1, in particular by a decision module 5.3 of the control unit 5.

[0037] Decision measurement 140 is schematically in Fig. Figure 3 illustrates this. The decision measurement 140 includes the detection 141 of a radioactive activity distribution. During the detection 141 of the activity distribution, localized activity data 21 of a measurement section 20 of the measurement material 10 are detected. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, activity zones 25 in the form of radiation sources in the sample 10 can be detected. To detect the activity zones 25, the measuring system 1 has a moving device 6 for positioning the sample 10 relative to the detectors 3.1. For this purpose, the moving device 6 has a conveying element with driven rollers for moving the sample 10 into a position, preferably between at least two or more positions, within the measuring chamber 2. However, it is also conceivable that the detectors 3.1 are designed to be movable relative to the sample 10 by the moving device 6. This allows the radiation of the sample 10 to be evaluated with high accuracy at different positions, and thus the activity zones 25 can be determined, particularly depending on the efficiency of the detectors 3.1.

[0038] Based on the activity areas 25, several sections of the measured material 20 can be determined in the form of geometrically defined zones 20.1 for the non-contact subdivision of the measured material 10. The zones 20.1 are virtual zones 20.1, which are determined in particular using a coordinate system 23 for the measured material 10. For example, the measured material 10 can be subdivided by a virtual grid. Furthermore, the decision measurement 140 includes an evaluation 142 of the activity distribution of the zones 20.1 depending on the localized activity data 21 assigned to the respective zone 20.1. In particular, a surface of the measured material 10 can be estimated and / or calculated for each of the zones 20.1 individually or for the entire measured material 10 based on the material data 13. For this purpose, the material data 13 can be used, for example, to determine the surface area of ​​the measured material 10. B. include several material properties in the form of mass, density, volume, material type and / or geometry of the material being measured 10.For example, the volume can be determined using a standard container in which the sample 10 is located in the measuring chamber 2. The density can then be calculated from the weighed mass and the volume. Based on the density and the material type, the surface area of ​​the sample 10 can then be estimated. This allows the decision measurement 140 to be carried out using the method described above, based on the molded parts 10.1 with their three-dimensional extent. Furthermore, this allows for the detection of a homogeneity of the activity distribution across the sample 10, enabling an area-related and / or mass-related assessment of the release capability of the sample 10 when evaluating 142 the activity distribution. Therefore, the decision measurement 140 can provide an assessment 143 of the release capability of the sample 10 and proof 144 of the release capability for area release and / or mass release.Preferably, a background activity 24 is taken into account in the evaluation 142 of the activity distribution. The background activity 24 can, for example, be radiation emanating from the further zone 20.1, for instance because the further zone 20.1 has an activity area 25.

[0039] Taking into account the previously described method of implementing the decision measurement, which enables the assessment 143 of the release capability of the measured item 10 and the verification 144 of the release capability for release 150, it can be determined during planning 113 that certain process steps 120, 130 are omitted, as in Fig.Figure 2 illustrates this. The assessment 143 of release capability typically represents the result of an orientation measurement 130, preceded by a pretreatment 120. Depending on the method used for the decision measurement 140, the orientation measurement 130 can be completely omitted, and the pretreatment 120 at least partially or completely eliminated. If the material to be measured 10 includes, for example, pipes, these can undergo the decision measurement 140 as molded parts 10.1 without first being formed into flat sheets. Furthermore, if a pretreatment 120 in the form of decontamination is performed, the preliminary evaluation 112 and / or the planning 113 can subsequently be repeated to adapt the following part of the release process to any changed preliminary activity data 11. Preferably, the preliminary evaluation 112 and / or the planning 113 can be repeated continuously during the release process.

[0040] The preceding explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention solely by way of examples. Naturally, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided this is technically feasible, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Reference symbol list 1 clearance measuring system 2 measuring chambers 3 Measuring device 3.1 Detectors 4 Data collection tools 5 Control unit 5.1 Pre-valuation module 5.2 Planning Module 5.3 Decision Module 6 Means of transport 7 User Interface 8 Annex 9 System 10 Measured goods 10.1 Molded parts 11 preliminary activity data 13 Material data 20 Measurement section Zone 20.1 21 localized activity data 23 Coordinate system 24 Background activity 25 activity area 100 procedures 110 Preliminary examination 111 Capture 111.1 Specification criterion 112 Preliminary evaluation 113 Plans 120 Pretreatment 130 Orientation measurement 140 Decision Measurement 141 Recognition 142 reviews 143 Assessment 144 Proof 150 Release 200 computer program product 201 commands

Claims

[1] Method (100) for carrying out a release process of a, in particular at least partially radioactive, material (10), comprising the following steps: - Recording (111) preliminary activity data (11) of the sample (10) depending on a preliminary investigation (110), - Preparation of the preliminary evaluation (112) of the preliminary investigation (110) of the measured material (10), - Planning (113) a subsequent part of the release process depending on the preliminary evaluation (112) and on a method of carrying out a decision measurement (140) for the release (150) of the measured item (10), - Performing the decision measurement (140) in a clearance measurement facility (1), wherein the decision measurement (140) is carried out using the method in which a detection (141) and an evaluation (142) of a radioactive activity distribution in the measured material (10) is carried out, wherein the preparation of the preliminary evaluation (112) of the measured material (10) is carried out taking into account the preliminary activity data (11) with regard to a specification criterion (111.1) for specifying at least a part of the release process by the measured material (10), wherein the release process begins with the dismantling of the measured material (10) in a nuclear facility (8), wherein the preliminary investigation (110) takes place in the nuclear facility (8) to record (112) the preliminary activity data (11). [2] Method (100) according to claim 1, characterized by , that to detect (141) the activity distribution, localized activity data (21) of a section (20) of the material being measured (10) are detected, which are evaluated when assessing (142) the activity distribution taking into account material data (13). [3] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that for the evaluation (142) of the activity distribution a surface of the material being measured (10) is estimated on the basis of the material data (13) to evaluate the local activity data (21), in particular locally. [4] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that when assessing (142) the activity distribution, an area-related and / or mass-related assessment of the release capability of the measured material (10) is carried out depending on a homogeneity of the activity distribution, in particular so that an assessment (143) of the release capability and a verification (144) of the release capability for an area release and / or a mass release is made possible on the basis of the activity distribution. [5] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the material to be measured (10) has molded parts (10.1) with a three-dimensional extent, wherein the decision measurement (140) is carried out on the basis of the molded parts (10.1). [6] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that in the decision measurement (140) at least two measurement material sections (20) in the form of geometrically defined zones (20.1) are determined for the non-contact subdivision of the measurement material (10), whereby the localized activity data (21) are determined for at least one of the zones (20.1) and the localized activity data (21) are evaluated for the assessment (142) of the radioactive activity distribution. [7] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that when detecting (141) the activity distribution at least one activity area (25) in the sample (10) is detected, in particular where at least one of the sample sections (20) of the sample (10) is defined on the basis of the activity area (25). [8] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the material data (13) of the sample (10) are recorded during the preliminary investigation (110) and / or during the decision measurement (140). [9] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the material data (13) include at least one of the following material properties: - Mass of the material being measured (10), - Density of the material being measured (10), - Volume of the sample (10), - Geometry of the measured material (10), - Material type of the material being measured (10). [10] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the preparation of the preliminary evaluation (112) and / or the planning (113) of the subsequent part of the release process is repeated, in particular continuously. [11] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the preparation of the preliminary evaluation (112) of the measured material (10) is carried out taking into account the material data (13) with regard to the specification criterion (111.1). [12] Computer program product (200) comprising instructions (201) which, when executed by a control unit (5), cause the control unit (5) to execute a method (100) according to any of the preceding claims. [13] System (9) for carrying out a release process of a, in particular at least partially radioactive, material to be measured (10) comprising a clearance measurement system (1) with a measuring device (3) which has several detectors (3.1) for measuring radioactive radiation of the material to be measured (10), and a control unit (5) for controlling the release process with a pre-evaluation module (5.1) for creating a pre-evaluation (112) of a preliminary investigation (110) of the material to be measured (10), a planning module (5.2) for planning (113) a subsequent part of the release process depending on the pre-evaluation (112) and on a method of carrying out a decision measurement (140) for the release (150) of the material to be measured (10) and with a decision module (5.3) for carrying out the decision measurement (140) with the method of carrying out the detection (141) and evaluation (142) of a radioactive activity distribution in the material being measured (10), wherein the control unit (5) is configured to carry out a method (100) according to one of claims 1 to 11.

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