A deal with Chinese firm Dynatech could see Studsvik’s fluid bed steam reforming (FBSR) process used for the treatment of radioactive waste in China.

Under a framework agreement, signed 24 July, Dynatech has been granted the exclusive license to practice the FBSR process in China. Studsvik will receive an initial royalty payment of $2.5 million in 2017, with subsequent royalties to be paid when facilities are built.

Studsvik will also provide design, engineering and consulting services to Dynatech during a set technology transfer period to support deployment of the FBSR.

“With the continued growth of the nuclear industry in China, waste reduction and treatment is a high priority,” said Mr Liu Yang, President of Dynatech.

China currently has 37 reactors in operation, 20 under construction, and more planned. Studsvik estimates that “several” FBSR treatment plants will be required to meet the needs of the Chinese market.

The FBSR process can be used to treat various waste streams including, spent ion exchange resins, sodium-bearing wastes, nitrate wastes, oils and sludges, organic and high-level waste, and dry active wastes, according to the Studsvik website.


Photo: Studsvik CEO Michael Mononen and Dynatech president Liu Yang