Storage and decontamination equipment

Abstract

A decontamination apparatus (1, 101, 434) is provided for decontaminating an exterior surface (16, 116, 416). The decontamination apparatus has a movable platform (4, 104, 204) and a containment structure (6, 106, 406) mounted on the movable platform. The containment structure has at least one opening and respective contact surfaces (22, 122) disposed about the opening. The contact surfaces are arranged to contact the exterior surface to define a working volume when the containment structure is positioned proximate the exterior surface. The decontamination apparatus includes a decontamination device (8, 108, 301, 306) arranged to decontaminate the exterior surface. The decontamination device is disposed within the working volume and is arranged to access the exterior surface through the at least one opening. There is also a vacuum system for generating a partial vacuum in the containment structure to apply a suction force to the exterior surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for removing contaminated materials from the surface of a structure.

[0002] Material contamination occurs due to the physical or chemical transfer of materials (contaminants) onto surfaces where they are not desired. Some contaminants may adhere strongly to the surface and thus may be difficult to remove, for example, by being absorbed by the porous structure of the material or by chemically reacting with the material, such as through corrosion. Removal of such "fixed contaminants" by intensive decontamination operations can result in the contaminants being carried into the air as either fine particles, gases, or aerosols.

[0003] Decontamination of structures by removing contaminated materials from surfaces, such as building walls, floors, or ceilings, is a frequently performed operation in remediation scenarios, particularly when dismantling nuclear facilities. The presence of contaminated (e.g., radioactive) materials can complicate the repair or dismantling of structures and the disposal of resulting waste.

[0004] Many industries need to suppress or control the release of toxic or harmful substances during industrial decontamination processes, including those containing radioactive substances, toxic chemicals, asbestos, biologically active substances, and hazardous waste. This is particularly true during more intensive decontamination operations, such as high-pressure water jetting or crushing, which can cause the generation of dangerous aerosols (e.g., in the form of dust or droplets). The nature of current decontamination operations can lead to the (re)contamination of the surrounding environment, which can mean that it is dangerous for human operators to be present, especially if they contain toxic or harmful substances.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved apparatus for removing contaminants and / or substances containing contaminants from surfaces containing physical, chemical, or biological contaminants in this way.

[0006] From a first aspect, the present invention relates to a decontamination apparatus for decontaminating an external surface, A movable platform, A storage structure mounted on a movable platform, comprising at least one opening, Each contact surface arranged around at least one opening, A storage structure including a contact surface, which is positioned in close proximity to the outer surface to form a barrier together with the outer surface and define the working volume, The present invention provides a decontamination apparatus comprising a decontamination device arranged to decontaminate an external surface, the decontamination device being located within a working volume and having access to the external surface through at least one opening.

[0007] The present invention provides a decontamination apparatus for decontaminating an exterior surface. The apparatus has a containment structure mounted on a movable platform. The containment structure has one or more openings (for example, defined therein), each opening having its own contact surface around the opening. The exterior surface is so named because it is the surface outside the containment structure (to be decontaminated), for example, the wall, floor, or ceiling of a contaminated structure or building.

[0008] When the contact surface is positioned adjacent to the outer surface, the contact surface can be brought into contact with the outer surface to form a barrier (e.g., a seal) between the outer surface and the storage structure. This has the effect of forming a (e.g., sealed) working volume defined by the portion of the outer surface within the opening defined by the contact surface and the storage structure.

[0009] Decontamination devices operate within a (e.g., sealed) working volume to decontaminate the exterior. Typically, decontamination involves removing contaminants or materials containing contaminants from the exterior. It would be understood that containment structures provide storage (i.e., inside the containment structure) for any waste (e.g., including aerosols) resulting from the decontamination process.

[0010] Therefore, according to at least preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be found that by decontaminating the outer surface of a (e.g., sealed) working volume, the majority (preferably substantially all) of the waste generated by the decontamination process (e.g., contaminants or contaminated materials removed from the outer surface) can be stored within the containment structure. This helps to achieve safe decontamination of the outer surface of a (e.g., sealed) volume without releasing contaminated materials or contaminants into the surrounding environment, which could contaminate the environment.

[0011] Furthermore, by storing toxic or hazardous contaminated materials within a containment structure, it is possible to substantially prevent any person who may be in the area (e.g., outside the (e.g., sealed) working volume) from coming into contact with the contaminants once the contaminated materials have been removed from the outside.

[0012] For example, conventional decontamination equipment may release aerosols generated from the decontamination process. In some cases, there is a risk that these aerosols may be inhaled. If the contaminants include asbestos, radioactive materials, or any other toxic or hazardous substances, inhalation can cause chronic or acute illness, or even death. Therefore, some embodiments of the present invention also help prevent the possibility of inhalation of such substances by providing a barrier (e.g., a seal) between the decontamination device and the surrounding environment.

[0013] The decontamination device itself may include a barrier around at least one opening of the containment structure, as well as a barrier that helps prevent the release of waste generated by the removal of contaminants, for example. This is considered novel and inventive in itself, and therefore, in a second aspect, the present invention relates to a decontamination device for decontaminating an exterior surface, A storage structure comprising at least one external opening, Each outer contact surface arranged around at least one outer opening, A decontamination apparatus is provided, comprising a storage structure including an outer contact surface which, when the storage structure is positioned in close proximity to the outer surface, is positioned together with the outer surface to form an outer barrier and define a working volume; and a decontamination device configured to decontaminate the outer surface, which is positioned within the working volume and configured to access the outer surface through an outer opening, wherein the decontamination device comprises an inner opening and an inner contact surface positioned around the inner opening, the inner contact surface being positioned to form an inner barrier between the outer surface and the decontamination device, and the decontamination device comprises a decontamination tool which is positioned to access the outer surface through the inner opening.

[0014] Therefore, according to a second aspect of the present invention, by decontaminating the outer surface of a (e.g., sealed) working volume and using a decontamination device having an inner barrier (e.g., an inner seal) (e.g., directly around the area of ​​the outer surface where the decontamination tool is working), waste (e.g., contaminants) that may not be contained within the inner barrier can be contained within the outer barrier (e.g., an outer seal).

[0015] Since the decontamination device is located within a (e.g., sealed) working volume, it will be understood that the inner barrier (e.g., inner seal) is located within (surrounded by) the outer barrier (e.g., outer seal). Having both an inner and an outer barrier helps to ensure that external decontamination can be safely achieved within the (e.g., sealed) volume even if, for example, one of the two barriers (e.g., seals) leaks or fails. Having an inner barrier (e.g., seal) can further help to reduce contamination inside the (e.g., sealed) working volume and containment structure by reducing the amount of waste released into those areas (outside the inner barrier).

[0016] In embodiments comprising both an inner and an outer barrier, the inner barrier can (preferably) contain most of the waste generated during the decontamination of the outer surface. However, some waste (e.g., dust or aerosols) may remain that is not contained by the inner barrier. Therefore, the outer barrier functions as a secondary barrier for containing and / or removing any remaining waste that was not contained and / or removed by the inner barrier. The waste may be removed by suction or, for example, by transporting it into the body of the containment structure / waste module within the body of the containment structure.

[0017] In a set of embodiments according to a second aspect of the present invention, the decontamination apparatus may further include a movable platform to which a storage structure is attached.

[0018] Those skilled in the art will understand that second aspects and embodiments of the present invention may, as appropriate, include, preferably, one, more, or all of the preferred and optional features described herein. For example, it will be understood that an outer opening in the second aspect may be an opening in the first aspect. Similarly, an outer barrier and an outer contact surface in the second aspect may be a barrier and a contact surface in the first aspect, respectively.

[0019] The exterior surface may be any surface capable of containing contaminants. In one embodiment, the exterior surface to be decontaminated is a wall or floor of a building or site. For example, the exterior surface may be the wall and / or floor of a spent fuel reservoir. In this case, the contaminants (of the wall and / or floor of the spent fuel reservoir) may be radioactive.

[0020] The exterior surface may include any material. In one preferred embodiment, the exterior surface includes, for example, concrete contaminated with radioactive material (e.g., radionuclides). The exterior surface may be located indoors or outdoors. At least preferred embodiments of the present invention are particularly useful in improving the safety of decontamination procedures when carried out indoors, for example, in a sealed space without ventilation, where aerosols may remain in the local environment for extended periods.

[0021] In one embodiment, the storage structure comprises a body connected to a contact surface. The contact surface may be arranged to be deployable, for example, so as to be deployed toward an outer surface to be decontaminated away from the body of the storage structure.

[0022] The body of the storage structure may be of any suitable or desired shape and size. In one preferred embodiment, the body of the storage structure is at least 1 m high, 2 m wide, and 2 m deep.

[0023] Preferably, the body of the containment structure comprises one or more walls and a roof. The containment structure may be assembled or constructed, and the exterior surface to be decontaminated may be located in close proximity to the containment structure. Preferably, the outer containment structure is constructed or built near the exterior surface to be decontaminated, for example, on top of a movable platform. This allows the exterior surface in a contaminated industrial environment to be decontaminated in situ, and helps reduce the risk of toxic or hazardous substances being released uncontrollably from the structure or site. The body of the containment structure may have a floor, or the base of the body of the containment structure may be open, for example, so that a movable platform forms the floor of the working volume.

[0024] The main body of the storage structure may be modular, that is, it may comprise individual modules. In one embodiment, the main body of the storage structure may include a modular structure, such as the applicant's ModuCon® system as described in, for example, UK Patent Application Publication No. 2376701(A). Such a modular structure helps to provide a versatile, easily transportable, and easy-to-use system that can enable the rapid and easy assembly of any suitable and desired size of external storage structure.

[0025] Thus, preferably, the body of the storage structure includes prefabricated components (such as panels for walls, roofs, and / or floors, etc.), which are then joined together (e.g., in the vicinity of the outer surface to be decontaminated) to form the body of the storage structure. Then, such a modular structure may, for example, enable the storage structure to decontaminate and / or disassemble itself when its outer surface is decontaminated.

[0026] Thus, in a set of embodiments, the storage structure is a temporary storage structure.

[0027] It will be understood that the decontamination device itself may need to be decontaminated before use in a new environment. Thus, in a set of embodiments, the inner and / or outer surfaces (e.g., panels) of the storage structure include a removable coating (e.g., are coated with a removable coating). This helps to facilitate the decontamination of the storage structure. The removable coating may be applied by brush painting, roll coating, or spraying. Thus, in a set of embodiments, contaminants that happen to be present on the storage structure can be captured by the coating and then removed by peeling off the coating.

[0028] Preferably, the body of the storage structure (e.g., its components) includes glass-reinforced plastic (e.g., flame-retardant).

[0029] Preferably, the components of the storage structure are sealed together to help prevent any contaminants from leaking out from the inside of the storage structure. In one embodiment (e.g., when the system is used to decontaminate the outer surface), one of the storage structures or its modules includes a shield (e.g., for radioactivity). This helps to contain substantially all toxic or harmful substances within the storage structure (or its module).

[0030] In one embodiment, the storage structure includes one or more (e.g., all) of the following: a window, one or more power sources, lighting, ventilation, and a filtration system. The ventilation and / or filtration system helps to store such materials within the storage structure by, for example, capturing any toxic or harmful substances within the ventilation and / or filtration system.

[0031] The storage structure may include modules for waste collection, for example, for receiving and / or storing waste generated by a decontamination process. In one embodiment, the storage structure includes hatches or doors that allow access to waste generated by a decontamination process, for example, to allow removal of contaminated waste. Preferably, the hatches or doors are located on or inside the body of the storage structure.

[0032] The containment structure may be configured to accommodate a person inside the containment structure, for example, to control the operation of the decontamination equipment or for maintenance or repair of the decontamination equipment.

[0033] Therefore, in one embodiment, the main body of the storage structure (e.g., modular) may include a module for human operator occupancy (a human-safe module), such as a control room.

[0034] Such modules should be safe for human operators, and therefore, in one embodiment, a human-safe module is equipped with a shield. The shield may be configured to help prevent aerosols or fumes from entering the human-safe module, and / or, in the case of radioactive contaminants, the shield may include a radiation shield.

[0035] In one embodiment, the containment structure is configured to be accessible by a worker wearing protective clothing, such as an air-supplied suit. For example, the containment structure may include a module (e.g., a decompression chamber / changing room) accessible at one end of the main body of the containment structure. This may allow a worker to perform manual operations within the structure to decontaminate the exterior (e.g., a human worker using a high-pressure water jet or a powerful high-pressure cleaner inside).

[0036] At least one opening in the storage structure is defined by a contact surface positioned around the at least one opening. Preferably, the contact surface is substantially continuous around the opening. This helps to provide a substantially continuous barrier (e.g., a seal) around the opening between the outer surface of the storage structure and the contact surface.

[0037] The contact surface may be configured to provide an opening of any suitable or desired shape or size. In a preferred set of embodiments, the opening is substantially rectangular. In a preferred set of embodiments, the maximum dimension of the opening in the plane of the opening is 1 m to 3 m.

[0038] The contact surface may be rigid. In a preferred set of embodiments, the contact surface is flexible. The flexible contact surface may optionally be configured to change shape to form a barrier (e.g., a seal) having, for example, a non-flat outer surface (including, for example, corners or curves). The contact surface may include any suitable material. Preferably, the contact surface includes a polymer material, such as synthetic rubber.

[0039] In a preferred set of embodiments, the storage structure includes a hood extending toward a contact surface defining an opening (e.g., from the body of the storage structure). The hood preferably extends between the open portion of the storage structure (e.g., the body of the storage structure) and the contact surface defining the opening.

[0040] The hood may be rigid. In a preferred set of embodiments, the hood is flexible. The hood may optionally be configured to change shape to form a barrier (e.g., a seal) having an outer surface that is not flat (e.g., including corners or curves). The hood may contain any suitable material. Preferably, the hood contains a polymer material, such as rubber, or the same material as the contact surface.

[0041] The hood may be mechanically deployable, for example, away from the body of the storage structure, toward the outer surface to be decontaminated. The shape of the hood (e.g., cross-section) may be any preferred and desired shape. In one embodiment, the hood has a substantially constant cross-section (e.g., in a plane parallel to the plane of the contact surface), for example, the hood is tunnel-shaped. Preferably, the cross-section of the hood (e.g., in a plane parallel to the plane of the contact surface) is substantially rectangular (e.g., having rounded corners).

[0042] In a preferred set of embodiments, the hood comprises one or more walls having a bellows-like shape. The bellows shape helps to provide flexibility to the hood.

[0043] The bellows-shaped hood may have a folded configuration when the device is not in use (for example, it may be stored in a folded configuration). This makes the device more compact when not in use. When in use, the hood may be configured to expand (i.e., unfold) at least partially (e.g., completely) toward the outward surface. The flexibility provided by the bellows-shaped hood helps to form a barrier (e.g., a seal) when the outer surface to be decontaminated is not perfectly flat (e.g., curved) or is not in a plane parallel to the plane of the opening (at least when the hood is retracted).

[0044] In one embodiment, the hood comprises a flexible (e.g., bellows-shaped) hood for decontaminating a first outer surface in a first plane and a second outer surface in a second plane, for example, the first plane not parallel to the second plane, and for example, the first plane being perpendicular to the second plane. Preferably, the hood is configured to rotate its contact surface between the first plane and the second plane, and the first plane not parallel to the second plane.

[0045] By having a flexible hood extending between the storage structure (e.g., the body of the storage structure) and the contact surface (defining the opening), the contact surface can be moved in a certain range of directions relative to the storage structure (e.g., the body of the storage structure). Therefore, the barrier (e.g., seal) may be formed on the outer surface of a certain range adjacent to the decontamination device (at a certain range of angles relative to the body of the storage structure).

[0046] In such a set of embodiments, after decontaminating the first surface, the (e.g., bellows-shaped) hood may be bent (by folding the flexible hood) so that its contact surface faces the second surface. For example, during the decontamination of a spent fuel pond, it may be desirable to decontaminate both the walls and floor using the same hood (and, for example, decontamination tools), which is aided by this flexibility. In another example, for the decontamination of the interior of a room, it may be necessary to decontaminate the walls, floor, and ceiling.

[0047] The barrier (e.g., seal) between the contact surface and the outer surface may be formed in any preferred and desired manner. In a preferred set of embodiments, the storage structure (e.g., the contact surface of the storage structure) is configured to provide an suction barrier (e.g., an suction seal) between the contact surface and the outer surface.

[0048] The storage structure (e.g., the contact surface of the storage structure) may be configured to provide a suction barrier (e.g., a suction seal) by generating a pressure difference between at least a portion of the (e.g., sealed) working volume and the surrounding environment in any suitable and desired manner.

[0049] In one embodiment, the decontamination apparatus comprises a vacuum system for generating a partial vacuum within a storage structure (e.g., the working volume of the storage structure) in order to apply a suction force to the outer surface. This is considered novel and inventive in itself, and therefore, from a third aspect, the present invention relates to a decontamination apparatus for decontaminating an outer surface, A movable platform, A storage structure mounted on a movable platform, comprising at least one opening and contact surfaces arranged around the at least one opening, A storage structure including a contact surface that is positioned to contact the outer surface and define the working volume when the storage structure is positioned close to the outer surface, A decontamination device is provided, which is arranged to decontaminate an external surface, and comprises a decontamination device located within a working volume and arranged to access the external surface through at least one opening, and a vacuum system for generating a partial vacuum within the storage structure to apply a suction force to the external surface.

[0050] Therefore, according to a third aspect of the present invention, it can be seen that, for example, an attractive force can be applied to the outer surface when the contact surface comes into contact with the outer surface, by decontaminating the outer surface within the (sealed) working volume and by having a vacuum system for providing a partial vacuum within the storage structure.

[0051] The suction force may provide a draw-in (e.g., airflow through the containment structure) for waste generated by the decontamination of the suction barrier between the outer surface and / or contact surface and the outer surface. The draw-in generated by the vacuum system may help prevent the release of waste (e.g., solids, liquids, and aerosols) generated by the removal of contaminants (e.g., by drawing the waste from the outer surface into the containment structure). The suction barrier (e.g., suction seal) between the outer surface and the contact surface (i.e., when they are in contact) may also help prevent the release of waste (e.g., from being released into the ambient environment outside the containment structure).

[0052] In some embodiments, air intake is generated by a vacuum system that draws air into the “working volume” from the external environment, for example, through a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including, for example, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or off-gas treatment. In some embodiments, the vacuum system for generating a partial vacuum within the containment structure is configured to apply a suction force to the outer surface that is large enough to temporarily seal the contact surface to the outer surface, thereby enabling a seal to be formed between the surface and the opening.

[0053] Those skilled in the art will understand that third aspects and embodiments of the present invention may, as appropriate, include, preferably, one, more, or all of the preferred and optional features described herein.

[0054] The vacuum system may include a vacuum pump for creating a partial vacuum, and thus a pressure difference. The vacuum system may also be used to draw any waste (e.g., aerosols) generated (and, for example, released) by the decontamination device from the outside, for example, into the body of the containment unit, for example, into a module for waste collection. The vacuum system may include a vacuum hose (for example, within the (e.g., sealed) working volume) for removing contaminants or contaminated materials from the working volume.

[0055] In embodiments with an internal barrier, the decontamination device (e.g., the internal contact surface of the decontamination device) may be configured to provide an internal suction barrier (e.g., an internal suction seal). The decontamination device (e.g., the internal contact surface of the decontamination apparatus) may be configured to provide an internal suction barrier (e.g., an internal suction seal) by generating a pressure difference between at least a portion of the decontamination device and (e.g., a sealed) working volume in any suitable and desired manner. In one embodiment, the decontamination device includes a vacuum system for generating a partial vacuum within the decontamination device (e.g., the contact surface of the decontamination apparatus) to apply a suction force to the outer surface.

[0056] The vacuum system of the decontamination device (which may include, for example, a portion of the vacuum system for the containment structure) may include a vacuum pump for generating a partial vacuum, and therefore a pressure difference. The vacuum system may also be used to draw any waste (e.g., aerosols) generated (e.g., released) by the decontamination device from the outside, for example, into a module for waste collection. The vacuum system may also include a vacuum hose (e.g., inside the decontamination device (e.g., the hood of the decontamination device)) for removing contaminants or contaminated materials from inside the inner barrier.

[0057] In one embodiment, the contact surface (of the containment structure and / or decontamination device) includes one or more friction pads. The one or more friction pads preferably include a material having a relatively high coefficient of friction (when in contact with the outer surface), for example, a material having a high surface roughness. Thus, in such an embodiment, the contact surface is arranged to hold the containment structure (e.g., the hood of the containment structure) to the outer surface via one or more friction pads.

[0058] In one preferred embodiment, one or more friction pads extend over at least 80% of the perimeter of the opening. When a barrier (e.g., a seal) is formed by contact surfaces on the outer surface, one or more friction pads can help restrict the movement of the decontamination device from its (e.g., sealed) position. Thus, one or more friction pads help achieve secure "locking" of the position while the barrier (e.g., a seal) is in place (e.g., during suction).

[0059] The working volume defined by the contact surface allows the decontamination device to access the outer surface to be decontaminated through the opening. Therefore, the decontamination device is preferably located within a housing structure. The (e.g., sealed) working volume should be large enough to surround the decontamination device. In one embodiment, the (e.g., sealed) working volume is large enough to surround the decontamination device and any additional surveying equipment (e.g., detectors or sensors).

[0060] The decontamination device preferably comprises decontamination tools. Any suitable and desired decontamination tool can be used to remove contaminants or materials containing contaminants from the exterior surface. In one embodiment, the decontamination tools comprise one or more of the following: (UHP) hydraulic demolition tools, mechanical crushing tools, dry ice blasting tools, grit blasting tools, laser cutting tools, nitro spraying tools, chemical removal tools (e.g., using chemical reagents), and / or high-pressure water spraying tools. For example, a remotely operated UHP hydraulic demolition vehicle may be used for horizontal and vertical crushing of the exterior surface.

[0061] Those skilled in the art will understand that in some embodiments in which aerosols are generated, at least a large portion (e.g., substantially all) of the contaminants or contaminated materials removed from the exterior can be contained within the containment structure. During decontamination (e.g., high-pressure water jetting), the contaminants or contaminated materials removed from the exterior may become suspended in the external environment, for example, in the form of aerosols. Therefore, a (e.g., sealed) working volume helps prevent contaminants or contaminated materials released during decontamination from escaping into the external environment (i.e., the environment outside the containment structure). For example, when using at least preferred embodiments of the present invention, it is substantially possible to prevent contaminated materials (e.g., dust) that may become suspended during the removal process from re-contaminating the exterior by accumulation.

[0062] In one embodiment, the decontamination device is movable, for example, relative to (within) a storage structure. The decontamination device may be remotely operated. In one embodiment, the decontamination device is mounted on a remotely operated vehicle. In one embodiment, the decontamination device is mounted on a hood, platform, or floor or wall of a storage structure. In one embodiment, the decontamination device comprises a frame, and a (for example, remote) controlled decontamination device is mounted (for example, movably) such that a remotely controlled decontamination device can move along or across the frame (for example, if the outer surface extends in the xy plane). In one embodiment, the decontamination device is movably mounted on one or more rails (or toothed (gear) racks) attached to a support frame.

[0063] Decontamination devices operate within a (e.g., sealed) working volume to remove contaminants from the outer surface to be decontaminated. This is typically achieved by removing a layer from the outer surface. In some embodiments, the layer to be removed is a layer containing at least 90% of the contaminants (in terms of mass, volume, or other measures specific to the contaminant itself, e.g., radioactivity). In short, a portion (e.g., a layer) of the outer surface is scraped off to remove hazardous or toxic materials.

[0064] In one preferred embodiment, the decontamination device is configured to excavate or remove an outer layer, for example, from the original level of the outer surface to at least a threshold depth into the outer surface. In one embodiment, the threshold depth (for example, the layer to be removed from the outer surface) is 10 mm to 50 mm, for example, 20 mm to 30 mm, for example, about 25 mm. The threshold depth may be set as the depth to which the outer surface should be excavated or removed in order to remove a target amount of contaminant present on the outer surface (for example, at least 50%, for example at least 60%, for example at least 70%, for example at least 80%, for example at least 90%, for example at least 95%, for example at least 99%), converted to mass, volume, or other measures specific to the contaminant itself (e.g., radioactivity).

[0065] The decontamination device may be configured to move relative to the outer surface at a specific speed, for example, a speed suitable for excavating or removing a layer of the surface to at least a threshold depth. In one embodiment, the threshold depth (and therefore, for example, the specific speed) is determined by how much of the surface (i.e., to what depth) needs to be removed in order to remove a significant (or target) proportion of the contaminant (converted to mass, volume, or other measures specific to the contaminant itself, e.g., radioactivity). This is useful in embodiments where it is possible to determine or predict the penetration depth of the contaminant into the surface. This can help the decontamination device remove a sufficient amount of contaminant and / or contaminated material, for example, to reduce the amount and / or intensity of contaminants present in or on the outer surface to a safe level.

[0066] In one embodiment, the decontamination device is configured to excavate and / or remove a layer having a depth 10% to 15% greater than the threshold depth. For example, if the threshold depth is 25 mm, the decontamination device can remove the first 28 mm of the outer surface, helping to ensure that the outer surface is completely decontaminated. This has the advantage of allowing uncertainty in determining the threshold depth to be compensated for, and helping to increase the likelihood that the hazard can be adequately removed by the decontamination device.

[0067] A movable platform exists to support the storage structure. The body of the movable platform preferably has a flat top surface (on which the storage structure is mounted). The movable platform preferably includes a cubic shape. The movable platform may have a width of 1 m to 5 m. The movable platform may have a length of 1 to 5 times its width. The movable platform may have a width of 3 to 6 times its thickness.

[0068] In one embodiment, the movable platform is modular and, for example, is formed from a plurality of (e.g., concrete) blocks connected to one another. The platform may be connected to a walkway (e.g., using ramps and handrails) to allow access to the storage structure.

[0069] The platform may be movable horizontally (i.e., laterally or in the front-to-back direction). In one preferred embodiment, the platform is movable vertically (i.e., up and down, or in other words, perpendicular to the plane of the platform).

[0070] The platform may be mechanically lifted; for example, the platform may include a mobile lifting work platform. A mechanically lifted platform may include or be connected to a scissor lift for mechanically lifting itself. This configuration may allow for parallel movement of the platform in both positive and negative vertical directions.

[0071] The platform may be configured to move progressively vertically (up or down). The platform may be movably positioned so that there may be pauses between changes in the platform height, for example, to give time for horizontal decontamination at the new height. This may allow the decontamination device to have sufficient time to decontaminate the newly exposed wall before the platform is moved again.

[0072] In a preferred set of embodiments, the movable platform comprises a flotation device (e.g., one or more buoys and / or pontoons). Such a platform may be configured to float, for example, on water. The flotation device may help prevent the platform from sinking. In such a set of embodiments, the exterior surfaces to be decontaminated may be the walls and / or floor of a pool or pond.

[0073] The movable platform may be configured to move with the water level. The water level may be changed (e.g., reduced) progressively. In one exemplary embodiment, the water level is reduced in increments of 500 mm to 1000 mm, for example, in increments of 600 mm to 800 mm, for example, in increments of approximately 700 mm. There may be pauses between changing the water level to allow time for horizontal decontamination at the new height. In one exemplary embodiment, for each 700 mm of water removed, the outer surface accessible from this level is removed to a depth of 28 mm.

[0074] In one embodiment, the platform includes concrete. If the contamination is radioactive, having a concrete-containing platform provides good radiation shielding for the containment structure. In such embodiments, electronic equipment placed within the containment structure is better protected from radiation damage. This can be advantageous in reducing the amount of radiation received by human operators on the platform (e.g., during maintenance) to a safe level. Furthermore, a concrete-containing platform helps provide a platform with rigidity and stability (compared to, for example, a plastic platform).

[0075] In one embodiment, the storage structure comprises a plurality of openings and a plurality of contact surfaces (i.e., the contact surfaces of each opening) arranged around each of the plurality of openings. As described above, the portion of the decontamination device extending between the body of the storage structure and the contact surfaces (defining at least one opening) may be known as a hood. When the storage structure comprises a plurality of openings and a plurality of contact surfaces, the storage structure preferably comprises a hood for each contact surface. Preferably, the storage structure comprises at least one decontamination device configured to decontaminate the outer surface through each hood. Thus, preferably, the storage structure comprises a plurality of hoods, each having a plurality of contact surfaces, and each hood extending between the body of the storage structure and its respective contact surface.

[0076] Having multiple hoods and multiple decontamination devices may allow the decontamination procedure to be completed more quickly and / or allow access to more of the exterior surface. At least one hood may extend from any surface of the body of the containment structure, for example, from below (e.g., the floor) or above (e.g., the roof). In one embodiment, one or more hoods extend from the side (e.g., the wall) of the body of the containment structure. This may provide better access if the exterior surface to be decontaminated is a wall.

[0077] In one embodiment, the contact surface includes one or more hinges. In this way, when the decontamination device is positioned close to the corners of an outer surface, the hinges allow the contact surface to change shape (for example, as the hood is deployed) to fit into the corner or around the edge, defining a working volume (for example, a sealed volume). For example, an opening hinge mechanism may allow the outer edge of the contact surface to move backward (for example, towards the storage structure) to fit inside the corner, and a closing mechanism may allow the outer edge of the contact surface to move forward to fit around the edge. Such embodiments can help enable the decontamination of corners and edges that typically require the dexterity of a human worker for manual decontamination.

[0078] In embodiments where the contact surface comprises one or more friction pads, the one or more friction pads may comprise one or more hinges. For example, the one or more friction pads may comprise a set of hinges that enable the contact surface to form a barrier (e.g., a seal) on a curved surface or around a corner.

[0079] In one embodiment, the decontamination apparatus comprises at least one sensor and / or detector for sensing and / or detecting physical or chemical properties associated with contaminants on or within an external surface. For example, if the contaminant is a gamma-emitting radioactive material, the sensor and / or detector may be a gamma camera (or spectrometer). Having one or more of these sensors and / or detectors allows physical or chemical properties associated with the contaminant to be detected, for example, measured (e.g., dose rate of radioactive contaminants). In particular, this helps in identifying hotspots on contaminated surfaces and, optionally, in periodic evaluation of the efficiency of decontamination techniques.

[0080] Preferably, the location of physical or chemical properties associated with a contaminant can be determined by at least one sensor and / or detector. The sensor and / or detector may be configured to acquire captured measurement data and / or captured video image data of the physical or chemical properties. Thus, a (visual) record of the location and measurements of physical or chemical properties associated with the contaminant can be constructed. This helps enable the contaminant to be accurately identified and disposed of by decontamination equipment, for example, from a contaminated environment.

[0081] At least one sensor and / or detector may be mounted on the body of the storage structure. In one embodiment, at least one of the at least one sensor and / or detector is mounted within the working volume.

[0082] In one embodiment, the decontamination device includes a feedback system (e.g., sensor and / or detector) configured to receive output from, for example, at least one sensor and / or detector. Preferably, the feedback system (e.g., sensor and / or detector) includes a control unit, and the data captured from the sensor and / or detector is processed by the control unit. This can provide feedback for the decontamination process. For example, the movement of the decontamination device may be controlled based on the measured position and / or intensity of physical or chemical properties associated with the contaminant. This feedback system reduces the possibility of the decontamination device "losing sight" of the area on the exterior surface.

[0083] In one embodiment, the decontamination apparatus includes a tracking system to enable, for example, horizontal movement of the decontamination apparatus and / or decontamination device. The platform (if provided) is preferably stationary during decontamination, and the decontamination device (e.g., a hood and) may be driven horizontally along its outer surface (e.g., using a linear tracking system).

[0084] The depth of penetration into the exterior by the decontamination device may be controlled by the tracking speed, i.e., the tracking speed is the moving speed of the decontamination device and / or components of the decontamination device. For example, sensors and / or detectors may be positioned to monitor the exterior (e.g., inside the hood of a containment structure). Data acquired (e.g., from one or more sensors / detectors) may be used (e.g., by a control unit) to adjust the tracking speed (e.g., the speed of horizontal movement) to achieve the required penetration depth.

[0085] In one embodiment, the decontamination apparatus (e.g., its decontamination device) is remotely controlled. It will be understood that such embodiments may enable the decontamination of severely contaminated environments that are considered too dangerous for humans to enter (e.g., for extended periods). For example, in radioactive environments, a human operator may be exposed to their personal maximum permissible radiation dose in a relatively short period of time, making it impossible to safely perform conventional manual decontamination. Remotely controlled decontamination apparatuses according to some embodiments of the present invention may help prevent human operators from being exposed to contaminants that may be present in or on the exterior surface.

[0086] In one embodiment, the decontamination apparatus includes, or communicates with, a control room (e.g., located away from the containment structure) for controlling the operation of the decontamination apparatus (e.g., remotely controlled) (e.g., decontamination device(s) in a containment structure, a movable platform, sensors / detectors, and / or contact surfaces). This allows an operator (e.g., a human) to perform decontamination away from the decontamination device (e.g., using a remotely controlled decontamination device), thereby helping the operator avoid exposing themselves to the exterior surface being decontaminated.

[0087] The control room can be located at any suitable or desired position relative to the storage structure. In one embodiment, the control room and the storage structure are physically separated. In one embodiment, the body of the storage structure includes the control room (for example, as a dedicated control module).

[0088] In one embodiment, the control room is located away from the containment structure (i.e., in a different location). This may be a different room, a different building, a different site, a different geographical location (e.g., a city or country), etc. Preferably, the control room comprises a control device for controlling the remotely controlled components of the containment structure. The control device may include a readout device, for example, a display screen (for showing images captured by a camera(s) in the containment structure, and / or a sensor and / or detector display (for showing measurements captured by a sensor(s) in the containment structure). This can help enable any operator(s) in the control room to view and appropriately control the remotely controlled decontamination devices, contact surfaces (e.g., hoods), and / or movable platforms.

[0089] The control room may include one or more input control devices for actively controlling (e.g., operating) remotely controlled components within the containment structure. For example, the input control devices may include joysticks (or similar operating devices such as tactile controllers) for controlling decontamination devices, contact surfaces (e.g., hoods), and / or movable platforms (e.g., their movement).

[0090] Therefore, preferably, the control room communicates data with the decontamination apparatus (and, for example, one or more (e.g., all) of the components of the decontamination apparatus), for example, the control room is configured to receive data signals from the decontamination apparatus (and, for example, one or more (e.g., all) of its components) and to transmit data signals to the decontamination apparatus (and, for example, one or more (e.g., all) of its components). This includes, but is not limited to, a decontamination device, one or more sensors and / or detectors, and a movable platform. Therefore, preferably, the control room and / or the decontamination apparatus (e.g., each) are optionally equipped with one or more (e.g., wired or wireless) data transmitters and / or receivers. The components of the decontamination apparatus may always be actively and directly controlled by an operator(s) in the control room, for example, the operator(s) in the control room may have complete control of the decontamination apparatus.

[0091] In one embodiment, the surface to be decontaminated is first examined, for example, using one or more sensors. This allows the surface to be characterized. The object or structure can then be decontaminated using the information gathered from its characterization. This may allow the decontamination process to be automated, at least partially.

[0092] In one embodiment, captured data is used to construct a model of the surface to be decontaminated. The model may also be used, at least partially automatically, to control one or more (e.g., all) of the decontamination devices. For example, if the location, shape, and size (and optionally the dose rate per unit area) of the surface to be decontaminated are known, components of the decontamination apparatus (e.g., contact surfaces, decontamination devices, and / or movable platforms) may be controlled to move automatically between two locations, for example, based on the distribution of detected contaminants on or within the surface. For example, feedback from a sensor or detector (e.g., a gamma camera) may be used to control the (movement / tracking) speed of the decontamination tool.

[0093] This helps avoid the need for an operator(s) to perform continuous control over all components of the decontamination equipment. However, it may be useful for the operator(s) to perform control over at least some of the components of the decontamination equipment, while their operation is not fully automated. Therefore, preferably, various cameras(s), sensors(s), detectors(s), etc., may be configured to capture their respective data and transmit it to the control room for use by the operator(s) when controlling the operation of the components of the decontamination equipment.

[0094] Features of any aspect or embodiment described herein may, where appropriate, be applied to any other aspect or embodiment described herein. When referring to different embodiments or sets of embodiments, it should be understood that they may overlap, though not necessarily explicitly so. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0095] Herein, a specific preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described as merely one example with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] This diagram schematically shows a decontamination device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This schematically shows a decontamination apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This schematically illustrates an example of a platform for use with embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4A] This shows an example of a decontamination device for use in conjunction with embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4B] This shows an example of a decontamination device for use in conjunction with embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5] This diagram schematically shows a decontamination device according to one embodiment of the present invention, which has a hinge mechanism for fitting into a corner. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0096] A key challenge presented by nuclear power generation is the safe storage and remediation of radioactive waste. Nuclear fuel pools, or ponds, provide one method for cooling and storing spent fuel rods. These ponds are filled with water and are typically lined with thick concrete layers on the walls and floor. They provide immediate "cooling" for a long enough time to give short-lived isotopes time to decay and reduce the ionizing radiation emitted from the rods. The water and concrete provide adequate shielding (for example, to protect workers at nuclear facilities) until the rods are sent elsewhere for dry storage or reprocessing.

[0097] One of the most problematic fission products of uranium-235 (used in fuel rods) is cesium-137. Cesium-137 is highly water-soluble and has a half-life of approximately 30 years. Radioactive nuclides such as cesium-137 and strontium-90 can be released from spent fuel rods into pond water. Over time, water contaminated with radioactive isotopes is absorbed into the surface layer of concrete. This means that even after the spent fuel and water are removed, the remaining pond walls and floors will continue to be contaminated because the radioactive nuclides are trapped within the porous concrete matrix.

[0098] When shutting down a nuclear power plant, the spent fuel reservoirs must be cleaned of their concrete walls and floors before final dismantling and decommissioning. Both contaminated water and contaminated concrete must be removed from the site. Removing contaminated concrete can be dangerous to the environment and to the health and safety of nearby workers. For example, rupturing or destroying concrete by water jets can release contaminated waste into the air, potentially releasing contaminated aerosols into the surrounding environment, especially into outdoor ponds.

[0099] Figure 1 schematically shows a decontamination device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Here, the decontamination device 1 is used to remove contaminated concrete from the surface (e.g., wall) of a spent fuel pond. The radiological target for the purification of such a spent fuel pond is typically to reach the R2 radiation zone level (less than 25 μSv / hour) at a distance of 1 m. This can be achieved by removing (or simply "scraping") the outer layer to be decontaminated.

[0100] In this embodiment shown in Figure 1, the decontamination device 1 comprises a storage structure having a main body 6 and a hood 2 (i.e., defined by a corrugated or bellows-shaped tunnel), a decontamination tool, and a platform 4.

[0101] The hood 2 of the containment structure is positioned to be in contact with the wall 16 of the spent fuel pond (i.e., as shown in Figure 1) and is supported by a (pontoon) platform 4. The platform 4 has a floating device (e.g., a buoy or pontoon) 26 which helps the platform 4 float on the water 18 and prevents the platform 4 from colliding with the wall 16. The hood 2 has a contact surface 22 (at the distal end of the hood 2) that surrounds the opening or hole of the containment structure. Inside the hood 2 are a decontamination device 8 and a vacuum hose 12 connected to a vacuum system (not shown).

[0102] A handrail 15 is provided for the safety of any operator or maintenance / repair worker who may need to access the main body 6 of the storage structure. Two gamma cameras 14a and 14b are mounted on the top of the main body 6 of the storage structure.

[0103] In the case of an outer surface 16 that is contaminated and needs to be decontaminated, the platform 4 and the containment structure are assembled in close proximity to the outer surface 16. It is understood that the containment structure may have any number of hoods and decontamination devices. However, here the decontamination apparatus has a single hood 2 and a decontamination device 8. The surface of the containment structure on which the hood 2 and the decontamination device 8 are located is positioned to face the outer surface 16 to be decontaminated.

[0104] The bellows-shaped hood 2 may initially be folded near the storage structure. At the start of the decontamination process, the hood 2 is positioned to unfold from the side of the main body 6 of the storage structure. The movement of the hood 2 may be remotely controlled, for example, by a control system in a control room within the main body 6 or in a control room separate from the decontamination devices 1 and 3. The movement or unfolding of the hood 2 involves expansion of the hood 2 by spreading out toward the outer surface 16 to be decontaminated.

[0105] The corrugated nature of hood 2 allows it to bend in many directions. Therefore, hood 2 can be bent outwards as needed (for example, towards the floor of the spent fuel pond). This allows the decontamination apparatus 1 to increase the number of outer surfaces that can be decontaminated by a single hood 2 and decontamination device 8.

[0106] When the hood 2 expands and comes into contact with the outer surface 16, a barrier (e.g., a seal) is formed between the contact surface 22 of the hood 2 and the outer surface 16. The (suction) barrier (e.g., seal) is generated by a vacuum system (not shown) controlled to reduce the pressure inside the hood 2 via a vacuum hose 12.

[0107] A barrier provided by the contact surface 22 of the hood 2 (e.g., an outer barrier (e.g., an outer seal)) defines a (e.g., sealed) working volume within the containment structure, in which the decontamination device 8 is located. The decontamination process is performed on the outer surface 16 by operating the decontamination device 8 within this working volume.

[0108] The decontamination device 8 comprises a cover 9 having an inner contact surface 24 that provides an inner barrier, in addition to the outer barrier provided by the outer contact surface 22 of the hood 2. This further helps to prevent waste from being released into the surrounding environment. For example, the inner barrier (e.g., an inner seal) can prevent the release of more solid / aggregate waste, and the outer barrier (e.g., an outer seal) can prevent the release of more aerosol waste.

[0109] The components of the decontamination devices 1 and 3 (e.g., the hood 2, the decontamination device 8, and the gamma cameras 14a and 14b) may be connected to a control system via one or more wired or wireless links. The operation of the decontamination device 8 is controlled via control lines 34a, 34b, and 34c.

[0110] As shown in Figure 4A or Figure 4B, a support member 32 is used to attach the decontamination device 8 to the main body 6 of the housing structure, for example, via frames 302, 308. The support member 32 may be retractable or static and may include a vacuum hose (in addition to the main vacuum hose 12) for removing waste from inside the cover 9 of the decontamination device. It can be seen that one of the control lines 34a is connected to a decontamination tool 13 on the frame 11. The tool 13 is slidably mounted on the frame 11. The frame 11 provides a mechanism for moving the tool (for example, horizontally and vertically) within the cover 9.

[0111] The vacuum hose 12 is positioned to remove aerosols from the working environment (e.g., a sealed environment) and transport them over a short distance (e.g., 0m to 10m, e.g., 0.1m to 5m) to the main body 6 of the containment structure. This helps prevent problems caused by transporting aerosols along a long hose. For example, dust accumulation can cause blockages in longer hoses.

[0112] The hood 2 (having a contact surface 22 that forms an outer barrier) captures aerosols generated by the decontamination (e.g., spraying) process. In this example, there are separate vacuum systems for the hood 2 and the decontamination device 8. The vacuum system provided for the hood 2 generates a draw-in for aerosols and provides a barrier (e.g., a seal) (and nominal adhesion) between the hood 2 and the outer surface 16 (pond wall).

[0113] If the outer surface 16 is a spent fuel pond wall (as shown in Figure 1), the pond water may be gradually removed during the decontamination process. This is advantageous because it allows the water to continue to provide some shielding during decontamination.

[0114] The water 18 in the pond is gradually removed (for example, via a pump (not shown)), and as a result, the water level gradually drops, for example, by 700 mm at a time. When the water has dropped by a certain distance 20 (for example, 700 mm), the floating platform 4 automatically descends by the same distance 20. After the water has decreased by a certain distance, for example, 700 mm, the decontamination device 8 is moved to come into contact with the outer surface 16 again, and the decontamination tools inside the cover 9 work to remove the layer of the outer surface 16.

[0115] While the decontamination tool is working on the outer surface, the water is not removed from the pond, and platform 4 remains at a constant level. This gives the decontamination device 8 sufficient time to work horizontally (or in two directions, e.g., horizontal and vertically) to remove the outer surface layer within the working volume to a depth of, for example, 28 mm.

[0116] Using high-pressure water jets, concrete dust and aggregates can be polished without damaging, for example, the reinforcing bars or other cast steel products within the outer surface (pond wall) 16. A high-flow vacuum system captures and removes water and solids from the work surface, for example, via a vacuum hose 12 inside the hood 2 or another vacuum hose located inside the cover 9 of the decontamination device 8 (for example, inside the support member 32).

[0117] During decontamination, the outer layer (for example, up to a depth of approximately 28 mm) can be removed from the outer surface 16 by the decontamination device 8. This may include, for example, the use of a shaving method by a remotely operated ultra-high pressure hydraulic demolition vehicle.

[0118] Approximately 99% of radioactive cesium is present within the first 25 mm of the outer surface of spent fuel ponds. By removing the outer surface down to 28 mm, the danger can be reduced to a safe level.

[0119] The storage structure may be modular, and in some examples, a module for waste (solid) collection may be housed within the main body 6 of the modular storage structure. A water treatment system may also be housed within the main body 6 so that pH-neutral water can be returned to the pond.

[0120] The decontamination tool 13 or device 8 and / or the surrounding hood 2 may be driven horizontally along the outer surface 16 (e.g., at a specific tracking speed) using a linear tracking system. The depth of penetration into the outer surface 16 by the decontamination tool 13 or device 8 may be controlled by the tracking speed (i.e., the movement of these components). This may be controlled remotely and / or automatically based on captured data. For example, plastic scintillator radiation (gamma) detectors 14a, 14b may monitor the fractured wall behind the hood 2. Radiometry data may be collected and associated with the location of the spray operation and may be used to generate a dose map of the outer surface (e.g., the wall of the pond) 16.

[0121] The gamma cameras 14a and 14b can monitor the outer surface (e.g., the rear of the hood 2), and this data can be used to adjust the tracking speed (e.g., the speed of horizontal movement of the decontamination device) to achieve the required penetration depth into the outer surface 16. Alternatively, the gamma cameras 14a and 14b may be located inside the hood 2, or even inside the cover 9 of the decontamination device 8.

[0122] Figure 2 schematically shows another embodiment of the decontamination apparatus. Figure 2 has substantially all the features of Figure 1. The difference between the decontamination apparatus 101 shown in Figure 2 and the embodiment shown in Figure 1 is that the floating pontoon platform 4 is replaced by a mechanically movable platform 104. A scissor lift 105 mounted on the floor 130 supports the platform 104.

[0123] In Figure 2, the pond is dry (e.g., already dewatered), and the movable platform support (scissor lift) 105 is mounted on the pond floor 130. The movable platform support 105 allows for the vertical movement of the platform 104. The platform 104 may be modular (as shown in Figure 1), but in this example, the platform 104 is made of a single solid block of concrete. The thick concrete platform provides radiation shielding to devices / electronics and potential operators(s) on or within the containment structure.

[0124] The decontamination device 101 shown in Figure 2 is useful for decontaminating the outer surface (e.g., 116) of a platform where there is no floating water, for example, the walls or floors of a building or a drained spent fuel pond.

[0125] Figure 3 schematically shows a platform that may be used in conjunction with the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2. In Figure 3, the platform 204 is modular and comprises three concrete blocks 204a, 204b, and 204c. A walkway 240 (ramp) is provided to allow access to the platform 204. This is particularly useful when the outer surface is a pond wall (e.g., 16, 116), as otherwise access to the platform 204 may be difficult. A grooved layer 248 on top of the platform 204 and the walkway 240 prevents slipping when walking on it.

[0126] Figures 4A and 4B show decontamination devices that may be used in the decontamination apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0127] In Figure 4A, the decontamination device 301 includes a cover 303. The cover 303 surrounds a decontamination tool (not shown) and is slidably mounted on a frame 302. During operation, the cover 303 (and the decontamination tool within it) is held relative to the outer surface to be decontaminated (within the housing structure of the decontamination device in Figure 1 or Figure 2).

[0128] The tool and cover 303 may be moved parallel to the frame 302 (e.g., horizontally or vertically) at a speed determined by the tracking system. The tracking system can change the speed of the tool based on the depth of the outer surface that must be removed. This speed may also depend on the decontamination technique used. In this example, the decontamination device 301 is configured so that the tool uses robotic hydraulic decontamination technique, which includes water jetting. Water is delivered through a hose 305 and discharged from the tool at very high pressure / flow rate.

[0129] The decontamination device 306 shown in Figure 4B is another example of a decontamination (e.g., robotic hydraulic demolition) device. In contrast to the decontamination device 301 shown in Figure 4A, the decontamination device 306 in Figure 4B allows for both horizontal and vertical movement.

[0130] For example, horizontal movement of the entire device 306 (including the decontamination tool and its surrounding cover 307) is achieved by moving the vehicle 310 to which the decontamination tool is mounted. The vehicle 310 has an electrically powered continuous track 309. The continuous track 309 increases the footprint size and therefore increases the stability of the decontamination device 306. Vertical movement of the decontamination tool and its surrounding cover 307 is achieved by moving the tool and cover 307 along the frame 308 to which it is slidably mounted.

[0131] Preferably, decontamination is carried out using ultra-high pressure dry hydraulic fracturing tools. Such ultra-high pressure (e.g., over 3000 bar) pump systems are advantageous because they utilize a portion of the volume of water used by conventional hydraulic demolition systems.

[0132] Figure 5 shows a simplified schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the present invention, in which the contact surface 422 of the hood 402 comprises a friction pad 433 and a hinge mechanism 435. The decontamination device 434 shown in Figure 5 is shown with the hood 402 connected to the main body 406 of the storage structure. In this example, the outer surface 416 to be decontaminated includes corners. The hinge mechanism 435 of the friction pad 433 allows the flexible contact surface 422 to be manipulated to the shape required to provide a barrier (e.g., a seal).

[0133] By adding hinged friction pads 433 to the contact surface, the hood 402 can be fitted into the corners of the outer surface 416 (pond wall), which helps ensure that the contact surface 422 forms a reliable barrier (e.g., a seal). The decontamination apparatus in Figure 1 or Figure 2 may include contact surfaces as shown in Figure 5.

[0134] Waste generated from typical decontamination techniques (e.g., water jetting and crushing) is often highly contaminated. Existing decontamination techniques typically result in significant aerosol release, which, without the barriers (e.g., seals) provided by the decontamination equipment described herein, would release highly contaminated airborne waste into the surrounding environment. This would cause recontamination of the decontaminated surface and also spread toxic or hazardous contaminants into the surrounding local environment.

[0135] Embodiments of the present invention address at least some of the problems described above. Such problems relate particularly to dry decontamination techniques, namely the generation of airborne dust (or aerosols) and the transport of dust through long hoses. Furthermore, the decontamination apparatus 5 according to the present invention provides additional shielding and protection from contaminants.

[0136] While the present invention has been illustrated by describing embodiments relating to the decontamination of walls and floors of spent fuel ponds that may be contaminated with radioactive materials, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention can be used in any other suitable circumstances, for example, on surfaces contaminated with toxic chemicals, asbestos, biologically active substances, and hazardous waste. Furthermore, many modifications and alterations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A decontamination device for decontaminating the exterior surface, A movable platform, A storage structure mounted on the aforementioned movable platform, At least one opening, A hatch or door to allow access to waste generated by the decontamination of the exterior surface, Each of the contact surfaces arranged around the at least one opening, The storage structure includes a contact surface that is positioned to contact the outer surface and define the working volume when the storage structure is positioned close to the outer surface, A decontamination device arranged to decontaminate the outer surface, the decontamination device being arranged within the working volume and to access the outer surface through at least one opening, A decontamination apparatus comprising a vacuum system for generating a partial vacuum within the storage structure configured to apply a suction force to the outer surface.

2. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the contact surface is substantially continuous around the opening.

3. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the contact surface is flexible.

4. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the storage structure comprises a hood extending toward the contact surface.

5. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the hood comprises one or more walls having a bellows shape.

6. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the hood is arranged to rotate the contact surface between a first plane and a second plane, and the first plane is not parallel to the second plane.

7. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the vacuum system provides a suction barrier and / or retraction for waste generated by the decontamination of the outer surface.

8. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the movable platform comprises a floating device.

9. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the storage structure comprises a main body connected to the contact surface.

10. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the main body of the storage structure includes a module for occupation by a human operator, including a shield.

11. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the decontamination device comprises a decontamination tool that includes one or more of the following: an ultra-high pressure hydraulic demolition tool, a mechanical crushing tool, a dry ice blast tool, a grit blast tool, a laser processing tool, a nitro injection tool, a chemical removal tool, and a high-pressure water injection tool.

12. The decontamination device is movable relative to the storage structure, as described in claim 1 or 2.

13. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the decontamination apparatus comprises a frame on which the controlled decontamination device is attached.

14. The decontamination device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the decontamination device is configured to excavate or remove the outer surface layer to at least a threshold depth into the outer surface.

15. A decontamination device for decontaminating the exterior surface, A movable platform, A storage structure mounted on the aforementioned movable platform, Multiple openings, A plurality of contact surfaces arranged around the plurality of openings, When the storage structure is positioned close to the outer surface, a plurality of contact surfaces are arranged such that each of the contact surfaces contacts the outer surface to define the working volume, A storage structure including a main body connected to the plurality of contact surfaces, A decontamination device arranged to decontaminate the outer surface, the decontamination device being arranged within the working volume and to access the outer surface through a plurality of openings, A vacuum system for generating a partial vacuum within the storage structure configured to apply an attractive force to the outer surface, A decontamination device comprising a plurality of hoods, each having a plurality of contact surfaces, wherein each of the hoods extends between the main body of the storage structure and its respective contact surface.

16. A decontamination device for decontaminating the exterior surface, A movable platform, A storage structure mounted on the aforementioned movable platform, At least one opening, Each of the contact surfaces arranged around the at least one opening, When the storage structure is positioned close to the outer surface, it is arranged to contact the outer surface and define the working volume. A storage structure including one or more hinges and contact surfaces, A decontamination device arranged to decontaminate the outer surface, the decontamination device being arranged within the working volume and to access the outer surface through at least one opening, A decontamination apparatus comprising a vacuum system for generating a partial vacuum within the storage structure configured to apply a suction force to the outer surface.

17. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1, 2, 15, or 16, further comprising at least one sensor and / or detector for sensing and / or detecting physical or chemical properties related to contaminants inside or on the outer surface.

18. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 17, comprising a sensor and / or detector feedback system.

19. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 1, 2, 15, or 16, wherein the decontamination apparatus comprises a control room for controlling the operation of the decontamination device within the storage structure, or is in communication with a control room.

20. The decontamination apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the control room is equipped with a control device for controlling the components of the storage structure.

21. A decontamination device for decontaminating the exterior surface, A movable platform, A storage structure mounted on the aforementioned movable platform, At least one opening, A hatch or door to allow access to waste generated by the decontamination of the exterior surface, Each of the contact surfaces arranged around the at least one opening, A storage structure including a contact surface, which is positioned in close proximity to the outer surface to form a barrier together with the outer surface and define the working volume, A decontamination apparatus comprising a decontamination device disposed to decontaminate the outer surface, the decontamination device disposed within the working volume and disposed to access the outer surface through at least one opening.

22. A decontamination device for decontaminating the exterior surface, A storage structure, At least one external opening, A hatch or door to allow access to waste generated by the decontamination of the exterior surface, Each of the outer contact surfaces arranged around the at least one outer opening, The storage structure includes an outer contact surface, which is positioned in close proximity to the outer surface to form an outer barrier together with the outer surface and define the working volume. A decontamination device configured to decontaminate the outer surface, comprising a decontamination device disposed within the working volume and configured to access the outer surface through the outer opening, The decontamination device comprises an inner opening and an inner contact surface arranged around the inner opening. The inner contact surface is arranged to form an inner barrier between the outer surface and the decontamination device. The decontamination device comprises a decontamination tool, the decontamination tool being positioned to access the outer surface through the inner opening.

23. A decontamination device for decontaminating the exterior surface, A movable platform, A storage structure mounted on the aforementioned movable platform, At least one opening, Each of the contact surfaces arranged around the at least one opening, When the storage structure is positioned in close proximity to the outer surface, it is arranged to form a barrier together with the outer surface and define the working volume. A storage structure including one or more hinges and contact surfaces, A decontamination apparatus comprising a decontamination device disposed to decontaminate the outer surface, the decontamination device disposed within the working volume and disposed to access the outer surface through at least one opening.

24. A decontamination device for decontaminating the exterior surface, A storage structure, At least one external opening, Each of the outer contact surfaces arranged around the at least one outer opening, When the storage structure is positioned in close proximity to the outer surface, it is arranged to form an outer barrier together with the outer surface and define the working volume. A storage structure including one or more hinges and an outer contact surface, A decontamination device configured to decontaminate the outer surface, comprising a decontamination device disposed within the working volume and configured to access the outer surface through the outer opening, The decontamination device comprises an inner opening and an inner contact surface arranged around the inner opening. The inner contact surface is arranged to form an inner barrier between the outer surface and the decontamination device. The decontamination device comprises a decontamination tool, The decontamination device is arranged such that the decontamination tool accesses the outer surface through the inner opening.

25. A decontamination device for decontaminating the exterior surface, A movable platform, A storage structure mounted on the aforementioned movable platform, Multiple openings, A plurality of contact surfaces arranged around the plurality of openings, When the storage structure is positioned close to the outer surface, each of the contact surfaces is arranged to form a barrier together with the outer surface to define the working volume, comprising a plurality of contact surfaces, A storage structure including a main body connected to the plurality of contact surfaces, A decontamination device arranged to decontaminate the outer surface, the decontamination device being arranged within the working volume and to access the outer surface through a plurality of openings, A decontamination device comprising a plurality of hoods, each having a plurality of contact surfaces, wherein each of the hoods extends between the main body of the storage structure and its respective contact surface.

26. A decontamination device for decontaminating the exterior surface, A storage structure, Multiple external openings, A plurality of outer contact surfaces, each arranged around the plurality of outer openings, When the storage structure is positioned close to the outer surface, each of the outer contact surfaces is arranged to form an outer barrier together with the outer surface and define the working volume, A storage structure including a main body connected to the plurality of outer contact surfaces, A decontamination device configured to decontaminate the outer surface, wherein it is located within the working volume and is configured to access the outer surface through a plurality of outer openings, It comprises an inner opening and an inner contact surface arranged around the inner opening, The inner contact surface is arranged to form an inner barrier between the outer surface and the decontamination device. Equipped with decontamination tools, The decontamination tool is positioned to access the outer surface through the inner opening, and the decontamination device is configured to do so. A decontamination device comprising a plurality of hoods, each having a plurality of outer contact surfaces, wherein each of the hoods extends between the main body of the storage structure and its respective outer contact surface.

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