PLatform based on Emerging and Interoperable Applications for enhanced Decommissioning processES

Based on the gap analysis and the ontology from the first part of the project, a digital platform was prepared for interaction between various tools and actors within decommissioning. The digital platform is based on "Building Information Modelling" (BIM) which enables the sharing of 3D models, radiation data, tools, costs, available human resources, etc. A plan was drawn up to test and validate that the BIM platform could handle realistic decommissioning tasks. The plan consisted of 6 test procedures within radiological characterization, dismantling, decontamination, risk planning, insight for radiation authorities and treatment of waste from decommissioning. Several of the tests contained execution done by both humans and robots. The 6 test procedures were distributed among 3 test facilities that were to be used as a use case for the tests: HRR: Halden Research Reactor (operator IFE), BCOT: Base Chaude Operationnelle du Tricastin (operator EDF) and SMG: Santa Maria de Garona (operator ENRESA). Data for the tests were collected from the various facilities where this was possible, when there was no confidential data, such as e.g. 3D models, measurement of radioactivity, measuring equipment, robots, etc. Some data were changed so as not to be exactly the same as at the test facility, other data were simulated. One of the partners in the project was responsible for each test. Most of the partners had software tools that could perform different parts of the test and several partners were involved in several of the tests. In the tests, dose measurement was simulated for the crew who carried out the work or controlled the robots. The time of the operations was also recorded. Together with data on costs and waste from the operations, sensitivity analyses were made that indicate which operations are most favourable in terms of dose exposure, time, costs and waste. Risk analyses were prepared for work carried out for the 3 different use cases which were assessed by radiation authorities who were also partners in the project. After the tests were done, an evaluation of the process of collecting data and carrying out the tests was carried out. Feedback was also collected from the partners in the project and possible end users about the weaknesses and strengths of PLEIADES. The tests showed that the BIM platform worked well for exchanging data between different tools and that decisions could be made on the basis of collected data. Due to the lack of a planning tool for decommissioning tasks, part of the data had to be entered manually. The API for the BIM platform is made publicly available and can later be developed further by others.

A published ontology for nuclear dismantling and decommission. A public API for a BIM database for nuclear dismantling and decommission. Training material for our organization on nuclear dismantling and decommission.

The overall aim of the PLEIADES project is to provide a new digitally enhanced methodology for improving current D&D operations, defining good practices for digitalisation and facilitating higher standardisation required for international application. The specific approach is to demonstrate an innovative digitally enhanced approach for selected key tasks related to D&D in real life examples from decommissioning projects in Europe. The envisaged project tasks shall prove the scenario feasibility analyses and comparison, as well as estimations for waste, radiation exposure and cost/duration related to jobs and the project as a whole. The core technical concept to be applied within the project is a common interface and ontology, integrating cutting-edge digital support tools into a BIM technology-based platform. In this project, the BIM-based integrated prototype will be adapted to practical needs of the D&D process from real-life projects and applied through systematic demonstration exercises aiming at demonstrating applicability as well as quantifying efficiency and finding shortcomings to be solved in further research and development. On a longer time-scale it is envisaged that PLEIADES will enable higher coordination between the partners of this project and other European organisations for collaborating beyond the scope of this project in enabling the emergence of flexible digital support systems that, through high interoperability of existing and emerging technologies, provide comprehensive professional support for D&D operations. The project aims at making innovative digital tools attractive for the new generation of “decommissioners” and promoting their adaption by the industry. To summarise, the PLEIADES project is guided by three high level objectives that were agreed by the project partners, consulted stakeholders and that are in line with the objectives of the Euratom call.