Innovative solutions for managing alpha-contaminated gloveboxes at Sellafield

Sellafield Ltd is tackling the challenge of managing alpha-contaminated gloveboxes as part of its decommissioning programme. The goal is to identify effective, durable fixatives that can prevent alpha particles from becoming airborne during the handling and processing of these gloveboxes. With over 800 gloveboxes slated for decommissioning, ensuring safe containment during transportation and dismantling is a top priority. To address this, Sellafield Ltd initiated a challenge through the Game Changers innovation programme to explore new solutions.

Out of thirteen proposals received, the following projects have been awarded funding to develop potential solutions: 

FEVDI Nuclear 

Based in France and specialising in decontamination, FEVDI Nuclear will focus on adapting their existing LP3 fixative – a widely used product in the nuclear sector – with a focus on enhanced properties and bespoke future-proofing of the fixative.  

Cyclife EDF UK 

This project will evaluate the application of various fixatives in glovebox environments, emphasising robotic deployment. Spray trials and material compatibility tests will help determine the effectiveness, limitations, and optimal use of the fixatives in real-world scenarios. 

Applied Nuclear Physics 

Leveraging recent breakthroughs in 3D printing enabling technologies, the team aims to develop an innovative solution for containment integrated with a deployment system.  

These feasibility studies aim to develop solutions that could enhance containment practices at Sellafield, contributing to safer and more efficient nuclear decommissioning. 

Given the age and condition of many gloveboxes, there is a strong focus on achieving practical solutions within the next 12 months to minimise potential radiological contamination risks. If these feasibility studies show promising results, further funding could support advancing the projects to the proof-of-concept stage, enabling the development of active containment systems to meet this timeline.