방사성 물질 흡착용 활성탄소섬유 시험방법 연구

Study on the test method of activated carbon fiber for radioactive material adsorption

AI 데이터 센터 전력 소비량 증가로 인해 에너지 확보를 위해 원전 시설이 증가하는 추세이며, 원전으로부터 배출되는 방사성 물질을 활성탄 필터 시스템을 통해 제거되고 있으나 방사성 물질 누출 및 폐기물에 대한 사회적 우려가 크다. 따라서 본 연구는 활성탄소섬유를 시스템에 도입 가능성을 확인하기 위해 방사성 아이오딘 흡착 챔버와 운전조건에 관한 연구 및 test를 실시한 결과 방사성 아이오딘 최대 99.98% 이상의 제거율을 보였다.

The global demand for energy is escalating due to the increased power consumption for AI data centers, leading to the expansion of nuclear power facilities and a subsequent rise in radioactive waste generation. To address this, activated carbon filter systems have been employed in nuclear power plants to adsorb and prevent the atmospheric release of radioactive iodine, a byproduct of these facilities. However, the substantial annual discharge of activated carbon is causing challenges such as a shortage of waste storage facilities. To mitigate this issue, this study investigated the application of activated carbon fiber (ACF) in nuclear power plant filter systems. Adhering to existing standards for radioactive material adsorption, we established a suitable testing environment for ACF and conducted adsorption and removal tests. The results demonstrated a maximum removal efficiency of over 99.918% for radioactive iodine, indicating a performance comparable or superior to that of conventional activated carbon used in current processes. This research is expected to contribute positively to the diversification of materials used for radioactive material adsorption and removal in nuclear power plants, as well as the establishment of relevant standards.