Nuclear accidents are catastrophic because radioactive material is released into the atmosphere. Carried by the wind, this fallout material may condense into solid matter or into precipitation or may get diluted in rainwater, resulting in radioactive contamination thousands of miles away. Radioactive particles will accumulate in organic matter or settle on the surface of objects, thus becoming a part of our daily life. And if our environment changes, we need to adapt. A research conducted at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics tried to find a solution for handling toxic household waste accumulated in the wake of such an accident. A special waste container was developed that can be placed on public lands and has the appropriate shielding capability to allow for safe storage of waste releasing low and medium radiation. The shielding capability of the prototype was certified by dosimeter testing at the BUTE Institute of Nuclear Techniques. On April 22 and 23 in 2011, the object was put into operation for a trial run on public grounds in Budapest.

Inserting the stainless steel container for isotopic test.

Usage step by step:

1.On the upper side of the Public Radioactive Waste Bin there is an opening, which is sealed with a cap made of concrete.

2.Before placing waste in the bin, the cap must be removed temporarily from the opening.

3.Through the opening waste can be put into the bin.

4.After putting waste into the bin, the protector cap must be put back into the opening and turned until it reaches a fixed position.