ONDRAF/NIRAS and Belgoprocess have set up an information centre about radioactive waste, called Isotopolis. The centre is located close to the site where radioactive waste is processed. Visitors are given the opportunity to take a look at the world of radioactive waste. In addition to visiting Isotopolis, a permanent exhibition with plenty of visual information, they can find out how radioactive waste is managed on a day-to-day basis. It is also possible to visit a storage facility for conditioned low-level waste and a processing plant for low-level waste, both of which are located on the Belgoprocess site. A film is also shown about the processing and storage of high-level waste.
Isotopolis, science for everyone
Isotopolis is for people who are interested in the management of radioactive waste and want to see for themselves how it is done in practice. The approach chosen is personal and modular, with ample information provided about many aspects of radioactive waste management. The aim of the visit is also to dispel any uncertainty about radioactivity and ionising radiation. Before visitors are taken on a tour of the information centre, they are shown a 13-minute video about the role of radioactivity in our daily lives. This prepares them for the tour and helps them understand better.
Isotopolis, room for dialogue
Visitors embark on a journey of discovery through the world of radioactive waste, accompanied by an experienced guide. The models and other visual aids used in Isotopolis are designed to help them understand the subject in a concrete way. The tour is conducted in small groups, which gives plenty of opportunity for discussion between the guide and the visitors.
Theme 1 Radioactivity
The first module explains radioactivity and radiation. A series of practical demonstrations and experiments in a mini-laboratory helps put these phenomena into perspective. The cloud chamber, in which invisible ionising radiation is made visible, is a unique feature.
Theme 2 Processing of radioactive waste
The second module shows where radioactive waste comes from, what it looks like and what happens to it. Questions about its daily management are answered. Examples, models and photos are used to present the subject in a visual way. Visitors see how radioactive waste is handled in practice.
Theme 3 Disposal of radioactive waste
The third module concerns the future and final solutions for the long term. Photos and models of the various disposal concepts and options that ONDRAF/NIRAS is currently studying give visitors an overview of the situation as it stands at the moment.
Practical information
Isotopolis is open throughout the school year from Monday to Saturday. Tours are organised in groups, accompanied by a guide. Admission and the services of the guide are free, but visits should be booked in advance.Isotopolis provides a free information pack in Dutch or French to help you prepare for your visit. You can order the pack from the address given below and we will be glad to send it to you as soon as possible.
Address and person to contact
Isotopolis
Nadine Van Mechgelen
Gravenstraat 73, 2480 Dessel, Belgium
Tel: +32 14 33 40 31
Fax: +32 14 33 40 39
e-mail: isotopolis@belgoprocess.be
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